Sugar is one of the most misunderstood nutrients. Over the years, sugar has been blamed for everything from behavior problems to diabetes, heart disease and obesity.

But here's the truth:

• Extensive research has shown that, when eaten as part of a healthy diet, sugar is not linked to the development of obesity, hyperactivity, type 2 diabetes or cardiovascular disease.1
• Sugar does not affect either behavior or cognitive performance in children.2
• Weight gain is the result of eating more calories, from any energy source (fat, protein, or carbohydrate), than the body burns off in daily activities.

References:
1. Institute of Medicine, National Academies of Sciences, Dietary Reference Intakes for Energy, Carbohydrates, Fiber, Fat, Protein and Amino Acids. The National Academies Press, Washington, DC 2002.
2. Joint FAO/WHO Expert Consultation. Carbohydrates in Human Nutrition. World Health Organization, 1997.