As a team of nutrition experts, we get asked a lot of questions about sugar and its impact on our health. One of the most common questions we hear is, “how many carbs are in a tablespoon of sugar?”
The Basics: What Is Sugar?
Sugar is a type of carbohydrate that is found in many foods, including fruits, vegetables, and grains. When we talk about sugar in the context of our diet, we are usually referring to added sugars, which are sugars that have been added to foods during processing or preparation.
Common sources of added sugars include soft drinks, candy, baked goods, and other processed foods. These sugars can contribute to weight gain, tooth decay, and other health problems if consumed in excess.
How Many Carbs Are In A Tablespoon Of Sugar?
A tablespoon of sugar contains about 12.6 grams of carbohydrates. This is because sugar is a pure carbohydrate and contains no fat, protein, or other macronutrients.
It’s important to note that not all sugars are created equal. Some sugars, like those found in fruits and vegetables, also contain vitamins, minerals, and fiber that are important for our health. Added sugars, on the other hand, provide no nutritional value and can contribute to health problems if consumed in excess.
The Bottom Line
A tablespoon of sugar contains about 12.6 grams of carbohydrates. While sugar can be part of a healthy diet in moderation, it’s important to be mindful of how much added sugar you’re consuming and to limit your intake to less than 10% of your daily calories.
Try to choose foods that are naturally sweetened with fruit or other whole foods instead of relying on processed foods that are high in added sugars. And if you do choose to indulge in something sweet, be sure to enjoy it in moderation as part of an overall healthy diet.
