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Limit Sugar In Your Diet

By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - On a day where our children are about to grab all of the candy they can dressed as goblins and ghouls I thought it might be a good idea to talk about sugar.

Americans are swallowing 22 teaspoons each day. Most of that added sugar actually comes from soft drinks and candy; 355 calories, the equivalent of guzzling two cans of soda and eating a chocolate bar.

Here is the concerning data: most women should be getting no more than six teaspoons a day, or 100 calories, of added sugar and for most men, the recommended amount is nine teaspoons, or 150 calories.

These guidelines are really important. I know you don't want to hear this - especially if you plan to raid your own child's candy after they go to sleep (and admit it - you probably have done it) but this is a long-term message. Something to think about.

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