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This Drink Is a Dangerous Calorie Bomb

Many everyday beverages contain more sugar than a glazed donut. Experts warn about hidden calories in smoothies, flavored coffees, and energy drinks.

Foto: Wikipedia (Kašasti sok)
Summary
  • A glazed donut contains about 18 grams of sugar, or four teaspoons.
  • Store-bought smoothies, flavored coffees, and iced teas often exceed that amount of sugar.
  • Energy drinks combine high doses of caffeine and sugar, which can cause nervousness and energy crashes.
  • For recreational exercisers, plain water is the best choice instead of sports drinks.

Although a glazed donut is typically considered a treat to be eaten with caution, some common everyday drinks contain far more sugar. While a typical donut has about 18 grams of sugar, equivalent to four teaspoons, many popular beverages exceed that amount in a single serving, often without consumers realizing it, as reported by Health.com.

Store-Bought Smoothies Hide Added Sugars

Store-bought smoothies, which many perceive as a quick and healthy meal, are often packed with added sugars. Although some of the sugar comes naturally from fruit and milk, manufacturers often add fruit concentrates and syrups. As a better option, smoothies made at home from fresh or frozen fruit, Greek yogurt, and protein powder are recommended.

Flavored Coffees Turn into a Calorie Bomb

The situation is similar with flavored coffees. While plain black coffee is nearly calorie-free and contains beneficial plant compounds, additions like flavored syrups and whipped cream turn it into a calorie bomb. Nutritionists recommend switching to coffee without sugar with milk or using spices like cinnamon.

From Energy Drinks to Sports Refreshments

Sweetened iced teas also significantly increase daily sugar intake. To avoid excess calories, unsweetened iced tea with a slice of lemon, fresh fruit, or natural sweeteners is recommended.

Energy drinks, besides high doses of caffeine and stimulants, also contain large amounts of sugar. This combination can lead to nervousness, anxiety, and a sudden energy crash after the initial boost, making unsweetened coffee or green tea a much safer choice.

Sports drinks, designed to replenish electrolytes and carbohydrates after strenuous activities, are often unnecessary for recreational exercisers. For standard workouts, plain water is sufficient, and coconut water or electrolyte drinks without added sugar can be used instead.

FAQ
How much sugar does an average glazed donut contain? +
An average glazed donut contains about 18 grams of sugar, which corresponds to approximately four teaspoons.
Which drinks are particularly high in sugar? +
Store-bought smoothies, flavored coffees, sweetened iced teas, energy drinks, and sports drinks often contain more sugar than a donut.
What is a healthier alternative to a store-bought smoothie? +
A homemade smoothie made from fresh or frozen fruit, Greek yogurt, and protein powder is a better option without added sugars.
Are sports drinks necessary for recreational exercisers? +
For typical workouts, plain water is sufficient, and sports drinks are often unnecessary due to their high sugar content.

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