SUGAR

Sugar is a carbohydrate called sucrose, which is made up from 2 smaller carbohydrates – fructose and glucose. Glucose is used by our body for energy, and fructose is quickly changed into glucose in our body.

Sugar can be absorbed very quickly by the body and used as energy. The body stores the energy it does not need as glycogen in the liver.

Many foods, like fruit, vegetables and dairy products, contain natural sugars. The sugar in dairy products is called lactose. Corn syrup is made from corn starch. Sometimes artificial sweeteners are added to it. Check the food labels on the product to find out what has been added.

Good things about sugar

• Sugar helps foods last longer by acting as a preservative in foods like jam, canned or bottled fruit and vegetables.
• Some people add sugar to their food or drinks to make them taste sweeter.
• Sugar can make food look good, like by being sprinkled on the top of cakes and pies.
• It works with yeast to make bread rise.
• Some people use it to balance the acid taste of foods pickled in vinegar.
• It makes ice-cream and ice-blocks taste sweet.
• It’s in special foods like sweets, chocolate and soft drinks. 

Too much sugar can cause medical problems, some of these are:

• Tooth decay
• Obesity
• Diabetes