According to a new study, a diet high in fructose sugar, found in sweetened soft drinks and junk food, raises blood pressure among men. Researchers also found people who consume sweetened soft drinks and junk food at night gain weight faster than those who don't. The results suggest excessive fructose intake may have a role in the worldwide epidemic of obesity and diabetes.
 
Fructose accounts for about half the sugar molecules in table sugar and in high-fructose corn syrup. The American Heart Association recommends women should eat no more than 100 calories (or six teaspoons, 25 grams) of added processed sugar per day and for men, no more than 150 calories (nine teaspoons, 37.5 grams). On average, Americans consume 22 teaspoons or 355 calories of added sugar each day. 

This article originally appeared in the November 2009 issue of AAKP Diet Tips & Bits.