What is the impact of added sugars on health?

Added sugars have a significant impact on health, particularly in their contribution to weight gain. When individuals consume foods and beverages high in added sugars, they often do so without accounting for the extra calories these sugars provide. This is because foods high in added sugars, such as sugary drinks, candies, and desserts, are typically low in nutritional value and do not promote the same degree of satiety as whole foods, which can lead to overconsumption.

Moreover, the rapid absorption of added sugars into the bloodstream can cause spikes in blood sugar levels, followed by crashes that may lead to increased hunger and further cravings for high-calorie foods. This cycle not only contributes to weight gain but can also have long-term consequences for metabolic health.

Weight gain associated with excessive intake of added sugars is linked to various health issues, including obesity, cardiovascular disease, and type 2 diabetes. In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the effects of added sugars on health. For instance, added sugars do not improve bone density, and while there may be temporary boosts in energy from sugar consumption, these are usually followed by energy crashes rather than sustained increases in energy levels. Additionally, high intake of added sugars is generally associated with an increased risk of developing diabetes, rather than