• 8 ounces of fruit flavored yogurt contain 6 teaspoons of sugar.
• 8 ounces of chocolate flavored milk contain 4 teaspoons of sugar.
• 8 ounces of frosted whole grain cereal contain 3 teaspoons of sugar.

This sample data was provided by Rachel K. Johnson, nutritionist and lead author of a scientific statement published in Circulation: Journal of the American Heart Association. The foods listed above are healthy. Johnson says most of our added sugar comes from soft drinks, candy, cakes, cookies and pie. The typical 12 ounce soft drink contains 8 teaspoons of added sugar.

Foods high in added sugar are often high in sodium and fat as well. Heavy consumption from this food group is associated with health conditions that include obesity, high blood pressure and other risk factors for heart disease and stroke. The AHA statement says most women should have no more than 25 grams of added sugar per day. Men should have no more than 37.5 grams. These guidelines do not apply to natural sugar found in products such as fruit and vegetables.

To get an idea of how much added sugar you consume each day read the nutrition label on your favorite products. One bowl of frosted mini wheats with eight ounces of milk puts me at 23 grams first thing in the morning and I haven't even had my coffee with cream and sugar yet.

American Heart Association Recommendations

• Look for ways to reduce the amount of added sugar you consume.

• It's best to consume added sugar through healthy products such as yogurt and whole grain cereals instead of junk food.

• Work it out. Physical activity helps to burn those sugar calories. This could be achieved through exercise as simple as walking and even by doing something like housework.