Understanding the Impact of Sugar Intake on Health

Sugar intake refers to the amount of sugar consumed through food and beverages. Monitoring sugar intake is crucial for maintaining a healthy diet and managing blood sugar levels.

Sugar Intake FAQ

Image credit: sugar.org

How much sugar do you eat a day?

The government recommends that sugar make up no more than 5% of our daily calorie intake. Take a look at the image below to see what this is equal to for different age groups: On average in the UK we are consuming between 9% and 12.5% of our calories from free sugars, depending on the age group.

Does sugar intake affect energy intake?

It showed that relative changes (increases and decreases) in sugars intake resulted in corresponding relative changes in energy intake and that there was approximately a 19kcal (78kJ) change in energy intake for each one unit change in percentage energy consumed as sugars.

Do diets differ in sugar content in relation to energy intake?

In adults, the results from meta-analysis of 11 RCTs presented evidence on diets differing in the proportion of sugars in relation to energy intake. In five of the trials, the sugars content of participants’ diets was manipulated by adjusting other sources of energy (starches, protein, and fat).

What is the who guideline on sugar intake?

Information note about intake of sugars recommended in the WHO guideline for adults and children This guideline provides updated global, evidence-informed recommendations on the intake of free sugars to reduce the risk of NCDs in adults and children, with a particular focus on the prevention and control of unhealthy weight gain and dental caries.