The kind of sugar we eat too much of is known as "free sugars". Free sugars are any sugars added to food or drinks, or found naturally in honey, syrups and unsweetened fruit juices. Many foods and drinks that contain added sugars can be high in energy (measured in either kilojoules/kJ or calories/kcal) and often have few other nutrients. Eating these foods too often can mean you eat more calories than you need, which can lead to weight gain and obesity. Adults are advised not to eat more than 30g of free sugars a day, which is roughly seven sugar cubes. Children should have less than this.
Adults are advised not to eat more than 30g of free sugars a day, which is roughly seven sugar cubes. Children should have less than this.