Many of us rely on coffee to help kick-start our days, yet many add too much sugar to their morning cup. Unfortunately, this habit can lead to weight gain as well as health concerns such as tooth decay, diabetes and heart disease – however when consumed moderately coffee can still be beneficial.

Research published in Annals of Internal Medicine revealed that individuals who consumed three or more cups of unsweetened coffee daily were 30 percent less likely to die over a seven year period compared with non-coffee drinkers, similar to what has been noted with tea and soda consumption. Furthermore, its effects were similar regardless of whether coffee was sweetened with either sugar or artificial sweeteners.

When sweetening your coffee, opt for natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit instead of refined sugar. Specialty coffee drinks tend to pack an abundance of sugar into each glass – often up to several teaspoons’ worth, leading to over 20 grams in one sitting!

Sugar may help your medicine go down easier, but too much can be detrimental to your health. According to FDA recommendations, adults should consume no more than 36 grams or 9 teaspoons of added sugar daily – most Americans typically get their added sugar from sugar-sweetened beverages, candy, baked goods and other processed food sources.

Add too much sugar to coffee and other drinks can increase your daily caloric intake by 100 calories, leading to weight gain as well as health issues like diabetes, heart disease, gout and cavities. Liquid calories don’t register as fullness so they may lead to overeating.

Trying to limit your sugar consumption? A Reid Health provider can assist in finding lower-sugar alternatives to your favorite drinks and food items, including fruit and vegetables with reduced levels of fructose as well as beverages with fewer calories and sugar content. You may also consider choosing low-calorie beverages when possible.

Dieting can be challenging, but with some guidance and support from Reid Health team members it can become manageable. Reach out to your provider now for tips on reducing sugar intake; registered dietitians offer tools and strategies to reach your goals more easily. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables with limited processed food offerings is a good place to begin; then gradually make small modifications until you see and feel a difference!