The amount of sugar in your favourite chocolates and candies
Although the occasional sweet treat is perfectly fine, you should know be careful about over-indulging in sweets from these worst brands in terms of sugar content.
The harmful effects of excessive sugar intake have been well-documented by now. Not only do consumers have a lot of information at their disposal these days, but they also have the benefit of having healthier sugar substitutes which can be procured in most grocery stores.
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But for many of us it is still difficult not to indulge in our favourite chocolates and candies. As reported byCountry Times, a study by Vera Clinic Cosmetic Dentistry has listed the 10 worst brands in terms of sugar intake, and they contain shocking levels of sugar.
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Recommended sugar intake
According to the National Health Service (NHS), free sugars (that we get from fruits, juices, honey or in the form of added sugars) should not exceed more than 5% of the energy (calories) you get from food and drink each day.
More under this adMore under this adThis implies the following:
- Adults shouldn’t have more than 30g of free sugars a day, (equal to about 7 sugar cubes).
- Children aged 7-10 should have no more than 24g of free sugars a day (6 sugar cubes).
- Children aged 4-6 should have no more than 19g of free sugars a day (5 sugar cubes).
Brands with the worst sugar content
Here are the brands with the worst sugar levels. When we compare their sugar content with the recommended daily sugar level given above, it is clear how unhealthy these are for you.
More under this adMore under this ad1. Starburst
Average portion: 45 grams, Sugar: 37 grams
2. Skittles
Average portion: 45 grams, Sugar: 33 grams
3. Mars Bar
Average portion: 51 grams, Sugar: 31 grams
4. Double Decker
Average portion: 55 grams, Sugar: 30 grams
5. Cadbury Creme Egg
Average portion: 40 grams, Sugar: 27 grams
6. Crunchie
Average portion: 40 grams, Sugar: 26 grams
7. Twix
Average portion: 50 grams, Sugar: 24 grams
8. Galaxy
Average portion: 42 grams, Sugar: 23 grams
9. Aero
Average portion: 36 grams, Sugar: 21 grams
10. Kit Kat
Average portion: 42 grams, Sugar: 21 grams
Sources used:
Country Times: ‘10 worst sweets and chocolates for sugar intake’
National Health Service: ‘Sugar: the facts’
Read more:
⋙ Does sugar really make you hyperactive? Here's how it really affects you
⋙ Replace processed sugar with these healthier alternatives
⋙ Blood sugar: The two signs that point to 'dangerously high' sugar levels