Sugar is one of the most widely used ingredients in the world. It’s found in almost every kind of food and beverage, from processed snacks to beverages like coffee, tea, and soda. But just how many calories are in two tablespoons of sugar?
The short answer is that two tablespoons of granulated white sugar contain around 64 calories. However, the exact number of calories in two tablespoons of sugar can vary depending on the type of sugar that you use. Here, we’ll take a closer look at the calories in different kinds of sugar, as well as how to incorporate sugar into a healthy diet.
Types of Sugar and Calories
There are several types of sugar available on the market, and the number of calories in each type can vary. The most common types of sugar are:
Granulated White Sugar: 64 calories in 2 tablespoons
Brown Sugar: 64 calories in 2 tablespoons
Powdered Sugar: 64 calories in 2 tablespoons
Honey: 64 calories in 2 tablespoons
Agave Nectar: 64 calories in 2 tablespoons
Maple Syrup: 64 calories in 2 tablespoons
Molasses: 64 calories in 2 tablespoons
As you can see, the calorie count for each type of sugar is the same, with two tablespoons containing 64 calories. However, the types of sugar vary in their sweetness and flavor, so it’s important to choose the one that is best suited for your recipe or beverage.
Sugar and Your Diet
Sugar is a source of empty calories, meaning that it does not provide any essential nutrients. Eating too much sugar can lead to weight gain, and it can also increase your risk of developing cavities and other dental problems.
That doesn’t mean that you have to avoid sugar altogether. In fact, moderate amounts of sugar can be a part of a healthy diet, as long as it is balanced with plenty of nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
Tips for Cutting Back on Sugar
If you’re looking to reduce the amount of sugar in your diet, here are some tips that can help:
Replace soda, energy drinks, and other sweetened beverages with water or unsweetened tea.
Choose fresh fruits as a sweet snack instead of processed snacks with added sugars.
Opt for plain yogurt or oatmeal and add your own toppings, such as fresh fruit and nuts.
Limit your intake of processed foods, which often contain added sugar.
Read food labels and choose products with the lowest amount of sugar.
Prepare your own meals and snacks at home, so that you can control the amount of sugar that you use.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories are in two tablespoons of granulated white sugar?
Two tablespoons of granulated white sugar contain around 64 calories.
What is the difference between white sugar and brown sugar?
White sugar and brown sugar are the same in terms of calorie content. Brown sugar is slightly more moist than white sugar and has a slightly different flavor.
Is it okay to eat sugar in moderation?
Yes, moderate amounts of sugar can be a part of a healthy diet, as long as it is balanced with plenty of nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
What are some tips for reducing my sugar intake?
Some tips for reducing your sugar intake include replacing sweetened beverages with water or unsweetened tea, choosing fresh fruits as a sweet snack, opting for plain yogurt or oatmeal and adding your own toppings, limiting your intake of processed foods, reading food labels and choosing products with the lowest amount of sugar, and preparing your own meals and snacks at home.
Are honey and agave nectar healthier than sugar?
Honey and agave nectar contain sugar, so they are not necessarily healthier than sugar. However, they do have different flavor profiles and may be a better choice for certain recipes.
How much sugar should I consume per day?
The American Heart Association recommends that women consume no more than 25 grams of added sugar per day, and men consume no more than 36 grams per day.
What is the difference between added sugar and natural sugar?
Added sugar is sugar that is added to foods and beverages during processing or preparation. Natural sugar is found naturally in some foods, such as fruits and dairy products.
Are there any health benefits to eating sugar?
Eating sugar can provide a short-term boost in energy, but there are no long-term health benefits associated with eating sugar.
Can I replace white sugar with a natural sweetener?
Yes, you can replace white sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or agave nectar. However, it's important to keep in mind that these are still sources of added sugar, so you should use them in moderation.
Is it possible to have too much sugar in my diet?
Yes, it is possible to have too much sugar in your diet. Eating too much sugar can lead to weight gain, and it can also increase your risk of developing cavities and other dental problems.
What are some foods that contain added sugar?
Some common foods that contain added sugar include candy, cookies, cakes, sweetened beverages, and processed snacks.
Can I still enjoy sweet treats if I'm trying to reduce my sugar intake?
Yes, you can still enjoy sweet treats in moderation if you're trying to reduce your sugar intake. However, it's important to make sure that you're also eating plenty of nutrient-rich foods.
Are artificial sweeteners a good alternative to sugar?
Artificial sweeteners may be a good alternative to sugar for some people. However, it's important to remember that they still contain calories and may not be suitable for everyone.
What are some alternative sweeteners to sugar?
Some alternative sweeteners to sugar include honey, agave nectar, stevia, and monk fruit.
Are all sugars the same in terms of calories?
No, not all sugars are the same in terms of calories. For example, two tablespoons of granulated white sugar contain 64 calories, while two tablespoons of honey contain 64 calories.