Low-Sugar Diets (Junior Cert Home Economics): Revision Notes

Low-Sugar Diets

What is Refined Sugar?

• Refined sugar provides energy but no other nutrients, making it an "empty-calorie" food.
• It has no unique function in the body that cannot be fulfilled by more nutritious foods.
• Refined sugar should be avoided whenever possible.

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Health Problems Associated with Sugar

Eating too much sugar can lead to:

1. Obesity.
2. Type 2 diabetes.
3. Dental disease.

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Guidelines for Reducing Sugar in Your Diet

1. Avoid Junk Foods:

• Skip fizzy drinks, sweets, chocolate, sugary breakfast cereals, cakes, and biscuits.

2. Use Artificial Sweeteners:

• Opt for options like Canderel to sweeten food.

3. Choose Healthy Snacks:

• Pick items like carrot sticks instead of sugary treats.

4. Read Food Labels Carefully:

• Look for hidden sugars in packaged foods and avoid those containing unnecessary sugar.