Food is fuel for us to efficiently do all the activities that our bodies and minds need to do on a daily basis. Sugary snacks and drinks are full of empty calories or calories that do not offer many vitamins, minerals or antioxidants. Limiting your intake of sugary foods will also help to decrease excess calorie intake and therefore will be helpful if your goal is to achieve a healthy weight. Instead, opt for fresh fruits, vegetables, and unsweetened drinks which contain naturally-occurring sugars as well as vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
Reviewing the Nutrition Facts Labels on foods that you typically eat is a great way to educate yourself on the amount of added sugar you are consuming. As of now, only a few companies are separating “added sugars” from the “total sugars” line in the food label. If added sugars are not highlighted, the ingredients list is also another way to look for added sugars. Added sweeteners and sugars would include the following: brown sugar, white sugar, high-fructose corn syrup, dextrose, corn syrup, molasses or honey to name a few. If you see that the food you are about to enjoy is high in added sugars but you still really want that food, look at the “serving size” and stick to the amount listed as a serving.
If you are a patient and have questions about your diet, please ask your oncologist at your next appointment about receiving a complimentary nutritional session with Melanie Mitchell, Cancer Partners’ Registered Dietitian.