5 Everyday Foods Sneaking Sugar into Your Diet

Sugar hides in many of the foods we eat daily, sometimes in surprising amounts. Here are five common foods that often contain more sugar than you might expect:

1. Bread
Bread is a daily staple, and fresh, warm bread is irresistible. However, many breads contain added sugars, including corn syrup, often listed among the top ingredients. Opting for handmade breads or baking your own at home can be a healthier choice.

2. Plant-Based Milk
While regular milk naturally contains lactose sugar, plant-based alternatives like soy or almond milk often include added sugars. Some soy milks contain up to two teaspoons of sugar per cup. To reduce sugar intake, check the ingredient list and choose unsweetened versions.

3. Yogurt
Yogurt is often considered a diet-friendly food, but many varieties contain a significant sugar load. Some low-fat yogurts have as much as 26 grams of sugar per 200-gram container, especially those with added fruit toppings. Plain yogurt with fresh fruit is a healthier alternative.

4. Salad Dressing
Commercial and restaurant salad dressings can turn a healthy dish into a sugar-laden meal. Certain dressings contain up to 4 grams of sugar per tablespoon. Be cautious with "light" dressings, which may reduce fat but add extra sugar.

5. Tomato Sauce
Jarred tomato sauces often contain added sugar to balance acidity and preserve freshness. A half-cup serving can have up to 12 grams of sugar, often listed as corn syrup or another sweetener. Making your own sauce at home is a simple way to control sugar content.

Hidden Sugar Names to Watch For
Check ingredient labels for these names, which indicate added sugar: glucose, glucose syrup, sucrose, fructose, galactose, maltose, lactose, dextrose, dextran, amylopectin, maltodextrin, cane sugar, brown sugar, corn syrup, high fructose corn syrup, maple syrup, carob syrup, agave syrup, brown rice syrup, silan, honey, malt, malt syrup, juice concentrate, caramel, coconut sugar, grape sugar, molasses.

Being aware of hidden sugars can help you make healthier choices and reduce unnecessary sugar in your diet.