A new survey by market research firm Talker Research has revealed a surprising reality: The average American consumes a daily amount of sugar that far exceeds recommended intake levels.

The findings, commissioned by Hint Water, highlight the critical need in the United States for greater awareness and healthier habits around sugar consumption and hydration. The study also found that sweet treats are high on the priorities of many Americans, with more than 1 in 10 respondents saying they would take time out of their busy schedule to get a sweet treat .

Conducted from May 30 to June 3, 2024, the survey analyzed the habits of 2,000 Americans, revealing that the average person ingests 99 grams of sugar each day, which is more than what is found in two cans of soda. 12 oz. This equates to 36,000 grams, or almost 80 pounds of sugar per year.

Despite efforts by 85% of respondents to reduce their sugar intake, the study paints a picture of a nation struggling with overwhelming sugar consumption and hydration issues.

The survey, which included respondents from a representative sample of the general population, highlights the disconcerting levels of sugar consumption among Americans.

Amy Calhoun Robb, director of marketing at Hint Water, said: “The study found that in a typical day, the average respondent consumes more than twice the amount of sugar recommended by the American Heart Association and much less water than recommended by the American Heart Association. United States National Academy of Medicine.

A significant portion of those surveyed admitted to habitual behaviors contributing to their excessive sugar consumption. Notably, 34 percent of participants identified their morning coffee as the primary source of their daily fluid intake, loaded with added sugars.

Another 28 percent admitted that soda made up the majority of their fluid intake.

This imbalance reflects what appears to be a widespread misunderstanding of hydration needs, as 51% of those surveyed said they believed their sugar cravings were indicative of a need for hydration rather than sugar.

On average, people surveyed reported consuming just 48 ounces of water per day, which falls short of the National Academy of Medicine’s recommendations. The study also found that improving hydration is a top priority for many, with 51% actively working to drink more water to avoid sugar cravings.

The data also shows that emotional triggers play a significant role in sugar consumption, with 39 percent of those surveyed attributing their cravings to stress, 36 percent to boredom, 24 percent to fatigue and 17 percent to fatigue. solitude.

These cravings have been found to often lead to feelings of anxiety, irritability, impatience, and unproductivity in the long term.

The survey suggests that particular scenarios, such as watching movies, finishing meals, needing a midday energy boost, and having a bad day at work, are prime times to crave sweet treats.

The mid-afternoon slump has proven to be particularly perilous, with cravings most likely to strike at 3:12 p.m. Indeed, the average person succumbs to these cravings in just 13 minutes, and more than 12% are willing to go out of their way to find a meal. gentle solution if not readily available.

However, this immediate gratification comes at a cost, with respondents typically experiencing a sugar crash 33 minutes after consumption, leading to fatigue, which 42% reported feeling, as well as regret and lack of concentration.

Calhoun Robb said the easy shift from occasional indulgence to regular sugar addiction can derail health and hydration goals.

“Whether you want a post-meal treat or need a boost during your workday, you may find yourself relying on sugar more than you think,” she said. “And from there, it can be easy to lose focus on your health goals.

“Luckily, you don’t have to sacrifice your health goals and settle for bland options; it’s possible to enjoy great-tasting foods and drinks without the sugar or guilt; it just takes a little intentionality and find products that prioritize your health as much as you do.