3 types of sugar · Be Well Co.

3 types of sugar

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Let’s get a little science-y today, shall we? 🤓

Today, we’re talking about the two main forms of sugar—glucose and fructose. Both are found in naturally sweetened foods and processed foods. Glucose is your body’s main fuel (and your body can even make its own). You do not have to have fructose to survive. When you eat fructose in processed foods, that’s where the problem arises. When you consume it in whole foods like fruit, however, the fiber helps slow its absorption.

Now that we understand a little more about glucose and fructose, let’s chat about another common type of sugar—sucrose. Like glucose and fructose, sucrose can be found in both natural foods and processed foods. The important thing to note is this ➡ All three types of sugar have the same caloric value but are metabolized differently.

Sucrose is made up of glucose and fructose and is the scientific name for table sugar.

While glucose and fructose are absorbed directly into your bloodstream, sucrose has to be broken down first. Your body breaks it down into both glucose and fructose (since that’s what it is made of).

Ultimately, consuming too much fructose or sucrose from processed foods is where the health risks lie. It’s always best to get your sugar from whole foods like fruit. Honey is a better pick than processed sugar, but it still counts as added sugar, so go easy.

⭐️ If the topic of sugar confuses you, just remember—sugar in its most whole-food form is always best! Your body runs on glucose and can even make its own. Your body never needs fructose or sucrose. If your diet consists of mostly whole-food nutrition, it all works itself out!

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3 types of sugar