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The Debate: Is Sugar Evil or OK for Athletes?

By Nancy Clark, CoachUp Nation, 09/26/18, 12:00PM PDT

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Reducing added sugar to less than 10 percent of total calories reduces risk of overweight, obesity and tooth decay.

"Sugar is a total waste of calories. I don't touch the stuff."

"I have such a sweet-tooth. My day is grim without some sugar in it."

"Before I compete, I eat a spoonful of honey to boost my energy."

If you are like most of my clients, you are confused about the role of sugar in your daily sports diet. The anti-sugar media reports sugar is health-erosive, yet sports nutrition researchers claim sugar is performance enhancing. That might leave you wondering: Should I eat sugar or avoid it?