You will hear people talk about sugar in various forms:
- Natural sugar (intrinsic)
- Free sugar
- Added sugar
- Concentrated sugat ( honey & fruit juice)
What does each term mean?
Note in this diagram that ‘free’ sugars are those that we refine. We use food processing techniques to concentrate the sugar.
Maybe you have already learned about sugar at school. If you study food science, you are likely to learn about why sugar is added to many foods.
You might also find out how sugar affects our teeth.
Does the human body need sugar?
Carbohydrates, including sugar are used by the body for energy. Yet, too much carbohydrate can make you feel sluggish and impede memory and attention. Over consumption of sugar can lead to obesity and other health risks.
Naturally occurring sugars are better for your health than refined sugars. Researchers believe that the body does not need any added sugar to function healthily.
When we eat fruits and vegetables we are consuming natural (intrinsic) sugars. These provide the energy we need to lead a healthy life.