The quest for healthier eating involves making several dietary sacrifices, one of the major ones being giving up sugar. As we all know, consuming too much of it can lead to weight gain and other health issues. When cooking at home, you can be mindful of how much you’re really consuming. However, figuring this out at the grocery store can be a real task. While strolling through the aisles, you must’ve come across food products with labels like ‘sugar-free’ and ‘no added sugar.’ Many of us assume this simply means the products are free of sugar. But is this true? Well, not really. Let’s understand the key differences between the two so that you can make an informed decision.
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What Does Sugar-Free Really Mean?
According to Harvard Health Publishing, a food labelled as sugar-free contains less than 0.5 grams of sugar per serving. These products do not contain any added sugar but often use artificial sweeteners like aspartame and stevia. So, if you’re having a sugar-free product, you can enjoy the same sweetness without the guilt of extra calories. However, some foods may still contain natural sugars. In that case, it won’t be entirely free of calories.
What Exactly Is No Added Sugar?
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) explains that food products with the label ‘no added sugar’ are those in which no sugar was added during processing or packaging. While there is no additional sugar in these products, they may contain some naturally occurring sugars. For example, a granola bar might have the label ‘no added sugar’ but still contain the natural sugars from the berries or raisins present in it.
Which Is Healthier: Sugar-Free Or No Added Sugar?
Both sugar-free and no-added-sugar products can be a part of your diet. However, you can rely on sugar-free products only in the short term, as they help reduce calories and sugar cravings. Several studies also suggest limiting the intake of artificial sweeteners in the long term, making ‘no added sugar’ products a better option. This is because they contain naturally occurring sugars, giving them an edge over sugar-free products.
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The Bottom Line
The type of food products you choose depends on your personal dietary goals. While it’s alright to consume sugar in moderation, excessive consumption can have adverse effects on your health. By knowing these sugar labels well, you can make a better choice and take a step closer to a healthier you. Stay fit, healthy, and happy!