Sugar, sweet treats & heart health
With Easter themed Spring treats making their appearance over the next month, being aware of how sugar can affect the heart is essential. But, not all sugar is bad, and its certainly not something we can always avoid. Natural sugars are found within milk, fruits and vegetables – however these are also full of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals which are all beneficial for the body and heart. Sugar mainly becomes an issue when it comes from food that is processed.
What are free sugars?
Typically, the type of sugar which adults and children consume are ‘free sugars’. These sugars which are added to food or drink, for example:
- Biscuits
- Chocolate
- Flavoured yoghurt
- Fizzy drinks
- Cereal
Sugars which are found within syrups, smoothies, fruit juice, and vegetable juice are also classed as ‘free sugars’.
How much is too much?
Consuming large quantities of sugar, in particular free sugars, should make up no more than 5% of the calories which you consume each day. For an adult, on average this works out at around 30g of free sugars per day maximum.
How does it affect my health?
Having a high intake of sugar, or a consumption that is over the daily recommended allowance, can in turn have some negative effects on our overall health, but also our hearts health. Too much sugar can contribute to weight gain, which in itself comes with health risks and can contribute to high blood pressure, and increase your risk of heart and circulatory disease, heart attack, strokes and vascular dementia.
High sugar intake can is also directly linked to the heart, and can lead to an elevated risk of heart disease and high blood pressure, new studies find. Therefore, it is important to ensure that you are aware of your sugar intake, and take steps to take care of your heart.
How can I support my heart health?
The Kwai Heartcare range consists of supplements which have been developed to help support your hearts health. By putting the above top tips into practice, and combining that with Kwai supplements, you’ll be on the path to a healthy heart in no time!
Kwai Heartcare – helps maintain a healthy heart, supports healthy cholesterol levels, and contains vitamin B1 which contributes to normal heart function.
Kwai Heartcare+ – contains Japanese black garlic, allicin and vitamin B1 to help maintain a healthy heart, support cholesterol levels, and contribute to a resistance against temporary stress.
Kwai Blood Pressure – a blend of nutrients specifically selected to help maintain normal blood pressure and heart muscle function.
If you are concerned about your heart health or if you are experiencing worrying symptoms, please contact a GP or local hospital. For more information on Kwai products, and to keep up to date with the latest blogs, visit us here.