This article is prepared by our guest writer - registered nutritionist Marina Abdalla:
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When it comes to sugars in foods, there are two main types: natural and added sugars.
Naturally occurring sugars, as suggested in the name, are found naturally in foods and can be considered somewhat beneficial to your diet. Natural sugars can be found in fruit in the form of fructose and in milk in the form of lactose.
Added sugars are any types of sugars or sweeteners that are added to foods and beverages during the preparation stage for added sweetness or flavour. This includes added sugar to hot beverage, adding sugar to a baking recipe or a bowl of cereal. Added sugars (or sweeteners) can include natural sugars such as brown sugar, white sugar, and honey.
It’s important to note that added sugar can be present in pretty much anything that is packaged or boxed at the supermarket, which is key to creating a healthy and balanced diet.
There are extensive differences between both types of sugars. Natural sugars occur naturally in whole foods such as fruit and create additional health benefits like antioxidants and fibre. Whereas added sugars are added to foods during the packaging or processing stage and don’t provide any nutrients to the human body, other than calories.