Nutrition facts are one of those things that some people read, acknowledge, but ultimately ignore – mainly because we all know that the recommended serving size is too damn small. In the past, sugars were never given a daily recommended value, but the new nutrition facts labelling system identifies the added sugars of any food product you purchase, making it easier to add up just how much extra sweetness you’re getting.
Thing is, not many people count their sugar intake, which is a habit that should change for the greater good. Just a few months ago, the FDA put a cap on the amount of sugar one should consume per day, right at no more than 10% of one’s daily caloric intake. This means, for the average person on a 2,000 calorie-per-day diet, he or she should eat no more than 50 grams of sugar each day.
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This seems like a high number that is rather difficult to reach, but what people often don’t consider is that many of their foods contain large amounts of processed sugar, even though they’re perceived and believed to be “healthy.” Believe it or not, merely consuming one entire bottle of Naked smoothie, or even a Grande mocha Frappucinno (with a whopping 61 grams of sugar) from Starbucks is enough added sugar for you for one day. Of course, your caloric intake varies, depending on your gender, weight, and height – but the amount of sugar in those everyday products doesn’t change.
The simplest solution is to tell people to “eat less sugar,” though it’s easier said than done. Curbing your intake may be something that takes months, or even years to perfect, because quite frankly, it ain’t easy. But, it can start by being more aware of what’s in your food, and having more control of what you put into your body by making what you can at home (like these DIY Naked smoothies).
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Hopefully the FDA’s changes to nutrition labels help make more people aware of what’s in their food because there are quite a few deceptive foods that aren’t as healthy as they seem. Ultimately, we’re not asking for sheer avoidance of foods, but rather that people take the time to truly understand what they’re eating, before it’s too late.