There is a lot of misinformation about sugar and much of it is not supported by science. There are a few things you should know and consider before you make your next sugar filled selection.

• Added Sugar Vs. Natural Sugar

When health professionals mention added sugar, they are referring to sugars that do not occur naturally in foods and beverages. Natural sugar refers to the sugar found in dairy (lactose) and the sugar found in fruit (fructose).

• Sugar Free Claim

When certain products claim that they are "sugar free" they are referring to no added sugars, such as white table sugar or high fructose corn syrup. A lot of foods still contain other forms of sugar like molasses, honey, and maple syrup. Also, be sure to check the nutrition label and ingredients list.

• Nutrition Facts Label   

The most recent version of the nutrition label includes the amount of added sugars that are included in the total amount of sugar. 

• Sugars Hidden in Plain Sight:

Many products contain sugar and they often have it listed under different names depending on the type of sugar it is. Some of the sugars are listed as dextrin, high fructose corn syrup, maltodextrin, invert sugar, fruit juice concentrate, and malt syrup.