Is it bad if I am far above my sugar levels?

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Let me start off by saying this - I NEVER eat anything with added sugar (except on very rare occasion). No, the type of sugar that I am referring to is typically sugar from fruits and vegetables. Say, MFP recommends I get 25g of sugar, but I typically eat between 30-40g of sugar a day. Plus, since these are not juices, I am getting all the benefits of the fiber.

So what's the general consensus, stick to recommended level or no in this case?

Replies

  • alittleveganlove
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    bump! i need advice
  • kdcoughlen
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    I have noticed that also. I have 2 cuties (little oranges) and a fuji apple and am way over on the sugar for the day. I think that is a flaw in their calculations. The carbs are under for the day, and I think that is what is important. Not a nutritionist, but I did stay at a Holiday Inn Express last night, so take my thoughts for what they are worth.
  • BarackMeLikeAHurricane
    BarackMeLikeAHurricane Posts: 3,400 Member
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    Sugar is just a carb. As long as you're eating enough fats and protein, your carbs/sugar aren't particularly important unless you have a medical issue that requires carbs/sugar to be monitored.

    However, it should be noted that fructose and sucrose can only be stored as liver glycogen and not muscle glycogen. The liver can hold 100-120g glycogen so anything more than that will be converted to triglycerides. As long as you still have a calorie deficit this will even out. Just try to make most of your carbs glucose and not sucrose or fructose. Fructose in particular has been shown to decrease exercise performance, increased likelihood of gastrointestinal distress, and increase perception of exertion.

    Here are some studies:
    http://www.setantacollege.com/wp-content/uploads/Journal_db/the effects of glucose....pdf

    http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3592616


    As long as you're under your calorie goal, you'll lose weight. Some people find that sugar (even from fruit) causes them to have more sugar/carb cravings so keep that in mind.

    For information on setting your macro target, read this: http://www.myfitnesspal.com/topics/show/911011-calculating-calorie-macronutrient-needs?page=1#posts-13821336
  • tami101
    tami101 Posts: 617 Member
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    From what I have read, mfp doesn't differentiate between processed sugars and natural sugars. The goal is set for the rda of processed sugars so I think you are probably ok. Unless you have a medical reason to restrict your sugar. Then you might cut back on your fruit consumption. But I'm no expert, this is just what I have read on the forums.
  • CaptainHNNNGGG
    CaptainHNNNGGG Posts: 205 Member
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    Its just calories but you aren't going to get a consensus answer here.

    I worry more about getting in the fruits and veggies than eliminating the treats.