Sugar is a commonly used ingredient in many of our favorite foods and drinks. From cookies to coffee, sugar can be found in many different forms, including white sugar, brown sugar, and powdered sugar. But how many calories are in white sugar? Let’s take a closer look at this sweetener.
What is White Sugar?
White sugar, also known as granulated sugar or table sugar, is a highly processed form of sugar derived from either sugarcane or sugar beets. The juice from these plants is extracted and refined to produce sugar crystals. During the refining process, impurities and molasses are removed, leaving behind pure white sugar crystals.
Calories in White Sugar
One teaspoon of white sugar contains approximately 16 calories. A tablespoon of white sugar contains about 48 calories. There are about 48 teaspoons in one cup of sugar, which means that a cup of sugar contains around 768 calories.
It’s important to note that white sugar is often added to many processed foods and drinks, such as soft drinks and sweets, which can significantly increase the calorie count of these items. It’s also important to be mindful of added sugars in your diet, as excessive consumption has been linked to numerous health problems such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.
Alternative Sweeteners
If you’re looking to reduce your calorie intake from sugar, there are many alternative sweeteners available on the market. These include stevia, monk fruit, and erythritol. These sweeteners are generally low in calories and have little to no effect on blood sugar levels, making them a good option for those with diabetes or trying to lose weight.
The Bottom Line
White sugar is a high-calorie sweetener commonly used in many foods and drinks. Consuming too much added sugar can have negative effects on your health. While there are many alternative sweeteners available, it’s important to remember to enjoy all sweeteners in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
