Hidden Sugars Can Lead to Obesity

Extra sugar in our food can lead to weight gain and impact a child’s future kidney and heart health. Most people know they need to limit their intake of cookies, cakes, ice cream, and other sweet treats, but it’s important to watch for hidden sugars as well.

Sugar can be hidden in items that might be labeled as “healthy,” such as:

• Breakfast cereals, even those noted as “whole grain”
• Yogurt
• Dressings and sauces, including ketchup and barbecue sauce
• Drinks (soda, juice, sports drinks)
• Peanut butter and other nut butters

When buying these foods for your child, look for items that do not contain added sugars. On food labels, sugars might be listed as syrups or concentrates, or words ending in “-ose,” such as fructose, sucrose, or dextrose.

When you do need to offer your child foods that contain added sugars, do so in small amounts to limit extra calories and sugar.

Some people are surprised that some foods they eat every day, such as iced tea, canned fruit, and flavored milks, have a lot of added sugars. It would be better to eat fresh fruit and drink regular milk. Take your time and look at the label, check the sugar, and watch for hidden sugars.

Source: “Spotting Hidden Sugars in Everyday Foods,” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, June 17, 2024, accessed August 22, 2025.