Natural Sugar

Natural sugars are sugars that occur naturally in various foods, including fruits, dairy products, and carbohydrates like grains, vegetables, and legumes. Fruits contain fructose, a natural sweetener, while dairy products contain lactose as a natural sugar. These foods provide natural sugars along with essential nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them a healthier choice compared to added sugars. Incorporating natural sugars into your diet as part of a balanced eating plan can contribute to overall health and well-being.

Promotes overall health and vitality Provides a quick yet sustained source of energy Helps maintain a stable metabolism Supports satiety and prevents excessive sugar consumption

Excessive consumption of natural sugars can have negative impacts on your health: Increased Risk of Heart Disease: Excessive natural sugar consumption increases the risk of heart disease. Contribution to Type 2 Diabetes: Natural sugar intake contributes to type 2 diabetes development. Potential for Stroke: High natural sugar intake may increase stroke risk. Risk of Fatty Liver Disease: Excessive natural sugar consumption can lead to fatty liver disease. Promotion of Chronic Inflammation: High natural sugar intake can cause chronic inflammation, increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases and certain cancers. Weight Gain and Skin Issues: Excessive natural sugar consumption may lead to weight gain and acne, impacting your health and well-being.

For individuals who have a history of heart disease, diabetes or insulin resistance, are overweight or obese, and are lactose intolerant, it is important to be mindful of their consumption of natural sugars.

Fruits and vegetables, such as berries, apples, oranges, carrots, and beets Dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cheese Natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, and molasses Whole grains and cereals Legumes and beans

The four most common forms of simple sugars include: Glucose Fructose (a.k.a. fruit sugar) Sucrose (a.k.a. table sugar) Lactose (a.k.a. dairy sugar)

The sugar found in fruit is generally not a cause for concern for most individuals, given its high fibre content and nutrient richness.