Why arent sugar and molasses included in food groups?

Sugar and molasses are not included in any of the food groups because they are considered added sugars. Added sugars are sugars that are added to foods during processing or preparation, rather than those that occur naturally in foods. The American Heart Association recommends limiting added sugar intake to no more than 6 teaspoons for women and 9 teaspoons for men per day. Consuming too much added sugar can increase the risk of obesity, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes.

The food groups, as defined by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, are based on the nutritional content of foods and their role in a healthy diet. The five food groups are:

- Fruits

- Vegetables

- Grains

- Protein

- Dairy

Sugar and molasses do not fit into any of these food groups because they provide little nutritional value and are not essential for a healthy diet. In fact, consuming too much sugar can actually have negative health effects.

It is important to note that foods that are naturally high in sugar, such as fruits and milk, are still considered healthy and are included in the food groups. This is because these foods also provide other essential nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, and fiber.