According to the WHO, what is the recommended limit for added sugar in a daily diet?

The recommendation from the World Health Organization (WHO) states that added sugars should constitute less than 10% of total daily caloric intake. This guideline is based on evidence linking high intake of added sugars to an increased risk of overweight, obesity, and non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

By suggesting that sugars add up to less than 10% of total calories, the WHO aims to encourage diets that are rich in whole foods including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while reducing the consumption of processed foods that often contain high levels of added sugars. The limit of 10% helps individuals focus on the quality of their diet and makes room for essential nutrients rather than empty calories.

In addition, while there is mention of a further reduction to less than 5% for additional health benefits, the less than 10% guideline remains a cornerstone for general public health recommendations and is easier for individuals to understand and apply in their daily dietary choices. This makes it a practical standard for promoting better nutrition globally.