🤔 Today's Trivia Question:

How Much Sugar Does the Average American Eat Daily?

Correct Answer: D) 17-20 teaspoons

💦 American Diets Packed with Added Sugars, AHA Urges Reduction

The American Heart Association (AHA) has raised concerns about the excessive consumption of added sugars in the American diet. On average, Americans consume 17 teaspoons of added sugar daily, which exceeds twice the recommended amount. This intake accumulates to about 60 pounds of added sugar per year per individual. Johns Hopkins estimates the average sugar consumed by each American to be closer to 20 teaspoons. Whichever number you choose to go with — its a lot.

The AHA has set specific guidelines for added sugar intake:

• Men: 9 teaspoons per day (150 calories or 36 grams)

• Women: 6 teaspoons per day (100 calories or 25 grams)

• Children and Teens: 6 teaspoons per day (100 calories or 25 grams)

• Children Under Age 2: Should not consume added sugars

The overconsumption of added sugars has been linked to various health issues, including weight gain, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. Unlike nutrient-rich foods, added sugars provide calories without essential nutrients such as proteins, vitamins, or minerals. This lack of nutrition becomes particularly concerning when sugary foods replace more nutrient-dense options like fruits and vegetables in the diet.

The intake of added sugars also varies across different states and sociodemographic groups. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), non-Hispanic Black adults consume an average of 19 teaspoons of added sugars per day. In comparison, non-Hispanic White adults consume 17 teaspoons, Hispanic adults consume 16 teaspoons, and non-Hispanic Asian adults consume 10 teaspoons daily.

This variation in sugar consumption among different demographic groups highlights the need for targeted public health strategies to reduce sugar intake and improve overall nutrition in the American population.