For many years, cholesterol was seen as the main enemy of heart health. Doctors and health experts advised people to eat less fat and monitor their cholesterol levels to protect their hearts. But today, new research shows that the real danger might come from something else: added sugars.

• Is Kombucha Really Worth the Hype? Here’s a Look at Its Benefits and Risks

• “A Nutritional Treasure That Doesn’t Spoil” – What’s the Difference Between Raw and Regular Honey?

Added sugars are found in many processed foods such as soft drinks, sweetened juices, cakes, cookies, cereals, sauces, and even some salty foods. These are not the natural sugars found in fruits or dairy products, but sugars added by manufacturers during food production.

Recent studies have shown that eating too much added sugar can increase the risk of heart disease. Researchers found that people who consume a lot of sugar have a higher risk of heart attacks or strokes, even if their cholesterol levels are normal. This shows that sugar has a direct negative effect on heart health.

• For Weight Loss: 3 Key Ingredients for an “Ideal” Breakfast

• 5 Signs That Indicate Protein Deficiency

Sugar can cause inflammation in the body, raise blood pressure, and lead to insulin resistance, which can then cause type 2 diabetes. All of these factors are known to damage the heart and blood vessels. On top of that, eating too much sugar can lead to weight gain, which increases the risks even more.

The problem is that many people are not aware of how much sugar they eat every day. Food labels are not always clear. For example, one can of soda can contain more than 35 grams of added sugar, which is more than the daily amount recommended by the World Health Organization.

• How to Maintain Proper Nutrition for Seniors?

• 5 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Eating Dried Fruits

Experts suggest that added sugar should be limited to around 25 to 50 grams per day, depending on a person’s age, gender, and activity level. To do this, people should avoid sugary drinks, choose natural foods, cook at home, and read food labels carefully.

It is also important to change our eating habits. It’s not just about avoiding fat or lowering cholesterol, but also about paying attention to the quality of the foods we eat. Added sugars are everywhere in modern diets, but with some awareness, we can reduce them.

Protecting our hearts does not depend on just one thing. We need to eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, get enough sleep, and avoid stress. But reducing added sugars is a key step to keeping our hearts healthy.

• Is Drinking Lemon Water in the Morning Good for Your Health?

• ‘Healthy’ Foods Contribute to Rapid Weight Gain

• “Naked Carbohydrates”: How Do They Affect Your Health?