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Management Corner How much sugar are we consuming? The figures aren't good. In the last 15 years, the per capita consumption of sugar has increased 28%, so that we are now, on average, consuming 53 teaspoons a day! Measure out 53 teaspoons to see how much in volume it is. You'll be amazed. Part of this increase in sugar has been the switch to low fat foods. To compensate for the loss of taste because of fat reduction in low fat foods, manufacturers have added sugar to improve flavor. It's interesting to compare low fat items with their "normal" fat cousins sitting on the shelf. They both have approximately the same caloric intake, mostly because sugar has been substituted for fat. Another of the big problems areas has been the substitution of soft drinks for milk products. Milk, in fact, seems to be least popular in children when they need it the most for healthy bone formation. Cola beverages, the most popular soft drink, contain phosophorus, which also impedes the body's ability to make use of calcium. What can you do without seriously depriving yourself of the sweet things in life? Start by substituting fruits for sugary desserts and snacks. Aim for gradual changes. Deciding to never eat sugar again for the rest of your life is probably unrealistic. After a few days or weeks on "no sugar ever again," you'll never have faith in any of your resolutions. At the same time, you'll know you've made significant changes in your sugar consumption patterns when you eat something sweet and find it "too sweet." For those of you with children, allow cola beverages only as special treats. Educate your children at a young age why they will benefit from consuming calcium. Janelle
Barlow, Author
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