Are you trying hard to cut back on salt and fat in your diet? Hold on for a second – your salt-free and low-fat foods might be harbouring high amounts of sugar, which can be just as bad for your body.
This is because fat and salt add a lot of flavour to food, and when you take them out, you need to replace them with something. Most of the time, that replacement is sugar. Got your attention now? While we have it, take a look at the top 4 foods that contain hidden sugar. If you’re ever in doubt, check the nutritional label on the packaging to see how much sugar something has before buying it.
Yoghurt.
It might say “fat-free”, but that’s just a red flag for high-sugar content. Another give-away that something contains sugar even though it’s fat-free or low-fat is when the packaging states “sweetened.”
Coleslaw
This popular salad may be made from healthy raw veggies, but it’s the mayo that you mix in with it that’s packed with sugar – especially the brands you find in most stores. The alternative? Make your own mayonnaise, it’s simple to make and much healthier than store-bought versions.
Jars of tomato-based pasta sauce
Pasta is a big winner in many households – mainly because it’s quick and easy to whip up a tasty dinner to satisfy hungry bellies. Be careful though if you cook with ready-made pasta sauce – it can contain up to 40g of sugar – that’s 12 teaspoons! Always check the nutritional label on pasta sauce and go for the one which contains the least amount of sugar. Alternatively, make your own with olive oil, onions, garlic and fresh tomatoes – it’s infinitely healthier for you.
Vitamin / flavoured water
Soft drinks and fruit juice aren’t the only beverages that are packed with sugar. Just about all drinks, including flavoured water, have added sugar. The healthiest options are plain water, and freshly squeezed fruit and vegetable juice.
Remember, sugar is hidden in all sorts of every-day foods, from bread to convenience foods and more. Make smart and informed choices when you’re out shopping at your local supermarket. Choose healthy, fresh foods over canned foods and avoid processed meats and meals – which are also packed with salt. Speaking of which, if you want to find out which foods are high in salt, take a look here: http://www.hellodoctor.co.za/warning-salt-added/