Refined sugars are typically added to foods and beverages to improve taste.
One of the biggest problems with this type of sugar is that they’re considered empty calories because they contain virtually no vitamins, minerals, protein, fat, fibre, or other beneficial compounds.
Moreover, refined sugars are commonly added to packaged foods and drinks, including ice cream, pastries, and soda, all of which tend to be heavily processed.
In addition to being low in nutrients, these processed foods can be rich in salt and added fats, both of which can increase belly fat when consumed in high amounts.
READ MORE: Type 2 diabetes: The test that could identify high blood sugar