New recommendations for kids and added sugar

The American Heart Association has released new recommendations about kids and added sugar.

They say children ages 2 to 18 should eat less than six teaspoons of added sugars per day.

Right now, kids are eating an average of 19 teaspoons a day.

Researchers say eating more than six throughout childhood can raise the risk for heart disease.

It can also lead to weight gain which puts kids at a greater risk for diabetes.

The best way to avoid added sugar is to focus on eating whole, natural foods, fruits, vegetables, whole grains and protein.

And kids and teenagers should drink no more than eight ounces of sugar-sweetened drinks per week.

Also pay attention to labels. Take a look at the added sugar and count it up.

Six teaspoons of sugar are equal to about 25 grams of added sugar.