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A new survey has discovered that the average American consumes much more sugar than the recommended intake level.
A new survey by market research company Talker Research has revealed a startling reality: the average American consumes a daily amount of sugar that far exceeds the recommended intake levels.
The findings, commissioned by Hint Water, underscore a critical need in the U.S. for better awareness and healthier habits around sugar consumption and hydration. The study also found that sweet treats rank highly among the priorities of many Americans, with more than one in 10 respondents reporting that they would make time in busy schedules to obtain a sweet treat.
Conducted from May 30 to June 3, 2024, the survey analyzed the habits of 2,000 Americans, uncovering that the average individual ingests 99 grams of sugar each day—more than what is found in two 12-ounce cans of soda. This translates to 36,000 grams, or nearly 80 pounds, of sugar annually.
Despite efforts by 85 percent of respondents to reduce their sugar intake, the study depicts a nation grappling with overwhelming sugar consumption and hydration issues as a result.
The survey, which included respondents from a cross-section of the general population, highlights the disconcerting sugar intake levels among Americans.
Chief marketing officer at Hint Water, Amy Calhoun Robb, said: "The study revealed that, on a regular day, the average respondent consumes more than twice the amount of sugar recommended by the American Heart Association and significantly less water than is recommended by the U.S. National Academy of Medicine."
A significant portion of respondents admitted to habitual behaviors contributing to their excessive sugar intake. Notably, 34 percent of participants identified their morning coffee as the primary source of their daily liquid consumption, laden with added sugars.
Another 28 percent confessed that soda made up the bulk of their liquid intake.
This imbalance reflects what appears to be a widespread misunderstanding of hydration needs, as 51 percent of respondents said they believe their sugar cravings were indicative of a need for hydration rather than sugar.
On average, respondents reported consuming only 48 ounces of water daily, falling short of the National Academy of Medicine's recommendations. The study also found that improving hydration is a top priority for many, with 51 percent actively working to drink more water to stave off sugar cravings.
The data also shows that emotional triggers play a significant role in sugar consumption, with 39 percent of respondents attributing their cravings to stress, 36 percent to boredom, 24 percent to fatigue, and 17 percent to loneliness.
These cravings were found to often lead to feelings of anxiety, irritability, impatience, and unproductivity in the long run.
The survey suggests that particular scenarios, such as watching movies, finishing meals, needing a midday energy boost, and having a bad day at work, are prime times for craving sugary treats.
The midafternoon slump was found to be particularly perilous, with cravings most likely to hit at 3:12 p.m. Indeed, the average person succumbs to these cravings within just 13 minutes, and over 12 percent are willing to go out of their way to find a sweet fix if one is not readily available.
However, this immediate gratification comes at a cost, with respondents typically experiencing a sugar crash 33 minutes post-consumption, leading to fatigue, which 42 percent reported experiencing, along with regret and a lack of focus.
Calhoun Robb said that the easy slide from occasional indulgence to regular dependence on sugar can derail one's health and hydration goals.
"Whether you want a post-meal treat or need a boost during your workday, you might find yourself relying more on sugar than you think you do," she said. "And from there, it can be easy to lose focus on your health goals.
"Fortunately, you don't have to sacrifice your health goals and settle for bland options, it's possible to enjoy delicious-tasting foods and drinks without sugar or guilt; it simply takes a bit of intentionality and finding products that prioritize your health as much as you do."
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