What foods contain natural sugar?

Many foods contain natural sugar, which is a type of carbohydrate that provides energy to the body. Here's a breakdown of some categories:

Fruits:

* High in natural sugar: Mangoes, bananas, grapes, cherries, pineapples, dates, figs, watermelon

* Moderate in natural sugar: Apples, oranges, pears, peaches, strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, kiwi

* Lower in natural sugar: Lemons, limes, cranberries, grapefruit, avocado

Vegetables:

* High in natural sugar: Corn, peas, carrots, beets, potatoes

* Moderate in natural sugar: Pumpkin, squash, sweet potatoes

* Lower in natural sugar: Broccoli, spinach, cauliflower, greens, onions, garlic

Dairy products:

* High in natural sugar: Milk (especially whole milk), yogurt, ice cream

* Lower in natural sugar: Cheese (varies depending on type)

Other natural sources:

* Honey: Contains a variety of sugars, including fructose, glucose, and sucrose.

* Maple syrup: Primarily contains sucrose, with small amounts of glucose and fructose.

* Agave nectar: Predominantly composed of fructose.

* Dates: High in natural sugars, including fructose, glucose, and sucrose.

* Dried fruits: Concentrated sources of natural sugars.

Important Note:

While natural sugars are generally considered healthier than refined sugars, it's still important to consume them in moderation. Here's why:

* Excess sugar can lead to weight gain: Regardless of the source, consuming too much sugar can contribute to weight gain and health problems like type 2 diabetes.

* Natural sugar is not always a good choice: Some fruits and vegetables have a high glycemic index (GI), meaning they cause a rapid rise in blood sugar levels, which can be problematic for people with diabetes.

Choose whole foods:

The best way to enjoy natural sugars is to consume them as part of a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.

Always read labels:

Even seemingly healthy foods can contain added sugars, so it's important to check food labels carefully. Look for products with low or no added sugar.