Sugar consumption in the United States is out of control. It is estimated that, every year, the average American consumes over 150 pounds of sugar. The list below explains why you might want to avoid sweet stuff at the store:

1. Poor Nutritional Value: Added sugars might be the ultimate example of an “empty calorie.” Once in your body, added sugars are consumed rather quickly by your body, leaving you with little in the way of energy. In contrast, foods with natural sugar content (such as fruits and dairy products) take a relatively long time to digest, giving your body a significant supply of energy.
2. Weight Problems: Over the last few decades, America’s waistline has risen in tandem with its sugar consumption. This isn’t a coincidence – consistently eating sugary items will cause you to gain weight. Even with regular physical activity, an unhealthy diet will wreck your physique.
3. Increased Diabetes Risk: By itself, sugar does not cause diabetes. However, sugary products are brimming with calories, which in excess can lead to the onset of diabetes symptoms. One of the biggest culprits are sugar-rich drinks, which studies have found significantly increase the risk of type 2 diabetes.
4. Increased Risk of Heart Disease: There is strong evidence to suggest that excessive sugar intake increases heart disease risk. One fifteen year study, published in the journal JAMA Internal Medicine, found that heart disease deaths were much more likely to occur in those who regularly consumed large amounts of added sugars.