What is Hidden Sugar?

Hidden sugar refers to sugars that are present in various foods and beverages but are not immediately apparent to consumers. These sugars are not the natural sugars found in whole foods like fruits and dairy products; instead, they are added sugars that are incorporated into processed and prepared foods during manufacturing or cooking. Hidden sugars are often used to enhance the flavor of products and extend their shelf life. They can take various forms, including sucrose, high fructose corn syrup, molasses, and more.

Common sources of hidden sugars in the diet include:

Soft Drinks: Many carbonated and non-carbonated soft drinks are loaded with added sugars. This includes regular sodas, fruit drinks, and sweetened iced teas.
Processed Foods: Numerous processed foods like breakfast cereals, flavored yogurt, canned fruits, and snack bars contain hidden sugars.
Baked Goods: Cakes, cookies, pastries, and other baked goods are often made with added sugars for sweetness.
Sauces and Condiments: Ketchup, barbecue sauce, salad dressings, and other condiments may contain significant amounts of added sugars.
Dressings and Marinades: Salad dressings, marinades for meats, and other flavor enhancers can have hidden sugars.
Canned and Frozen Foods: Many canned and frozen foods, such as canned soups, frozen dinners, and even some canned vegetables, may contain added sugars.
Snack Foods: Snack foods like potato chips, pretzels, and granola bars can have hidden sugars.
Flavored Coffee and Tea: Pre-packaged iced coffees, coffee syrups, and flavored teas often contain high amounts of added sugars.
Sports and Energy Drinks: Beverages marketed as energy drinks or sports drinks frequently contain substantial added sugars.

Reading food labels and ingredient lists is essential to identify hidden sugars in the products you consume. Look for terms like sucrose, glucose, fructose, high fructose corn syrup, molasses, and other sugar-related names. By being mindful of hidden sugars in your diet, you can better manage your sugar intake and make healthier food choices. Reducing added sugar consumption is important for overall health, as excessive sugar intake is associated with various health issues, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.

What are the Symptoms of Latent Diabetes?

Latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA) is a type of diabetes that shares characteristics with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. It is sometimes referred to as “type 1.5 diabetes.” LADA typically affects adults, and its progression is slower than traditional type 1 diabetes. People with LADA may initially present with symptoms similar to type 2 diabetes but often require insulin treatment over time, much like those with type 1 diabetes. Here are some common symptoms of LADA:

Increased Thirst (Polydipsia): Excessive thirst is a common symptom of LADA, as it is with other forms of diabetes. You may find yourself drinking more fluids than usual.
Frequent Urination (Polyuria): LADA can cause increased urination, which may lead to more frequent trips to the bathroom.
Fatigue: Feeling tired or fatigued is a typical symptom of diabetes, including LADA. High blood sugar levels can affect your energy levels.
Increased Hunger (Polyphagia): You might experience more frequent hunger and cravings for food.
Unexplained Weight Loss: Some individuals with LADA experience unexplained weight loss due to the body’s inability to use glucose properly. This is more common in type 1 diabetes but can also occur in LADA.
Blurred Vision: High blood sugar levels can affect the eyes and cause temporary changes in vision.
Slow-Healing Wounds: Poorly controlled diabetes can impair the body’s ability to heal wounds and injuries.
Yeast Infections: Some individuals with LADA may be more prone to yeast infections, such as thrush or genital yeast infections.

It’s important to note that LADA is often misdiagnosed initially as type 2 diabetes because it typically affects adults and its onset is slower. However, over time, individuals with LADA may require insulin treatment like those with type 1 diabetes. If you suspect you have LADA or experience symptoms of diabetes, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are key to effectively controlling blood sugar levels and preventing complications associated with diabetes.

What are the Risk Factors for Hidden Diabetes?

Latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA), often referred to as “hidden” diabetes, is a type of diabetes that shares characteristics with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. While the exact cause of LADA is not fully understood, several risk factors and characteristics have been associated with this form of diabetes. These risk factors include:

Age: LADA typically affects adults, and it is more common in people over the age of 30. Unlike traditional type 1 diabetes, which often develops in childhood or adolescence, LADA has a later onset.
Family History: Like other types of diabetes, having a family history of diabetes can increase your risk of developing LADA.
Genetics: Certain genetic factors may contribute to the development of LADA, as is the case with type 1 diabetes.
Autoimmune Factors: LADA is characterized by the presence of autoantibodies, which are produced when the immune system attacks the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. These autoantibodies play a role in the development of LADA.
Insulin Resistance: People with LADA may initially present with symptoms of insulin resistance, similar to type 2 diabetes. However, as the condition progresses, they often require insulin treatment, similar to type 1 diabetes.
Obesity: While LADA shares features with type 1 diabetes, it is more prevalent in individuals with obesity. This distinguishes it from traditional type 1 diabetes, which is not associated with obesity.
Symptoms: The symptoms of LADA can resemble both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, such as increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss.
Slow Progression: LADA has a slower progression compared to type 1 diabetes. The need for insulin therapy may not be immediate, and some individuals can manage the condition with oral medications initially.

It’s essential to recognize that LADA is often misdiagnosed as type 2 diabetes due to its adult onset and initial presentation with insulin resistance. However, it is important to diagnose LADA accurately, as its progression and treatment approach differ from type 2 diabetes. If you suspect you have LADA or experience symptoms of diabetes, consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are essential for controlling blood sugar levels and preventing complications associated with diabetes.

Can Hidden Diabetes Be Prevented?

Preventing latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA), often referred to as “hidden” diabetes, may not be possible because it is believed to be an autoimmune condition with a genetic component. LADA shares some characteristics with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, and while it typically develops in adulthood, it is not entirely preventable in the same way that some lifestyle-related type 2 diabetes risk factors can be mitigated.

However, there are strategies to manage the condition and minimize its impact on your health:

Early Detection: Early diagnosis is crucial for proper management. If you have a family history of diabetes or experience symptoms of diabetes, such as increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, or fatigue, consult a healthcare professional. They can perform tests to determine the type of diabetes you have and tailor a treatment plan accordingly.
Healthy Lifestyle: Even if you have LADA, adopting a healthy lifestyle can help manage the condition. Eating a balanced diet, staying physically active, and maintaining a healthy weight can improve blood sugar control and reduce the risk of complications.
Medication and Insulin Therapy: Depending on the progression of the condition and the function of your pancreas, your healthcare provider may recommend medications to manage blood sugar levels. In some cases, insulin therapy may be necessary. Properly managing your blood sugar can help prevent complications associated with diabetes.
Regular Monitoring: Frequent monitoring of blood sugar levels, as directed by your healthcare provider, is essential. This allows for early intervention and adjustments in your treatment plan.
Stress Management: Reducing stress can help maintain overall health. Stress can affect blood sugar levels, so stress management techniques, such as relaxation exercises and mindfulness, may be beneficial.

It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional, such as an endocrinologist or diabetologist, who can accurately diagnose and manage LADA. They will provide guidance on the most appropriate treatment plan based on your specific needs.

While LADA may not be preventable, early diagnosis and effective management can help individuals with this condition lead healthy lives and reduce the risk of complications associated with diabetes.

How to Diagnose Latent Diabetes?

Factors considered to diagnose a person with diabetes: fasting blood sugar, three-month blood sugar value (Hemoglobin A1C), presence of organ and tissue damage due to diabetes.

Fasting Blood Sugar Test: It is performed with a blood sample taken after 8 hours of fasting. In a healthy individual, fasting blood sugar is expected to be below 100 mg/dl.

Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): In this test, also called the sugar loading test, first the fasting glucose is measured, then the patient is made to drink a liquid and the glucose is measured again 2 hours after drinking the liquid. If this value is below 140 mg/dl, it indicates that the individual is healthy. However, if there is a value between 140 and 199 mg/dl, it is considered hidden sugar, and if it is more than 200 mg/dl, diabetes is mentioned.

Hemoglobin A1C Test: High blood sugar for a long period of time causes red blood cells to combine with glucose. This is used to determine blood sugar levels for the last 2-3 months. If the person’s HbA1C test result is 5.6% or less, it is normal; if it is between 5.7% and 6.4%, he has prediabetes; if it is 6.5% and above, he has diabetes.

In a healthy individual, fasting blood sugar ranges between 70 and 100 mg/dl. Reference values required to diagnose diabetes:

Fasting blood sugar above 125 mg/dl
Postprandial blood sugar above 200 mg/dl
HbA1c value is over 6.5 mg/dl
Presence of diabetes-related damage to various tissues such as eyes, kidneys and nerve cells
Hidden sugar is;

Impaired blood sugar is mentioned when a person’s fasting blood sugar is measured in the range of 100 to 124 mg/dl.

If the individual’s postprandial blood sugar is between 140 and 199 mg/dl, impaired glucose tolerance is on the agenda.

In people whose HbA1c value is found to be between 5.5 and 6.4, prediabetes can be mentioned in cases where blood sugar remains high for 3 months.

Individuals diagnosed with prediabetes are potential diabetics. However, this situation can be eliminated with appropriate treatment and precautions. But if it turns into diabetes, it is irreversible.

Diagnosing latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA), often referred to as “hidden” diabetes, can be challenging because it shares characteristics of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. It typically develops in adulthood and progresses more slowly than type 1 diabetes. Here are some steps involved in diagnosing LADA:

Medical History and Symptoms: Your healthcare provider will start by taking a detailed medical history, including any family history of diabetes. They will also ask about your symptoms, which may include increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and blurred vision.
Blood Tests: Blood tests are essential for diagnosing LADA. Your healthcare provider will likely order the following blood tests:
- Fasting Blood Sugar Test: A fasting blood sugar level above 126 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) may suggest diabetes.
- Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): This test measures your blood sugar levels after fasting and then drinking a sugary solution. If your blood sugar remains high after two hours, it can be indicative of diabetes.
- Hemoglobin A1c Test: This test provides information about your average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months. An A1c level of 6.5% or higher may indicate diabetes.
- Autoantibody Tests: LADA is characterized by the presence of autoantibodies, which are antibodies that target and damage insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Your healthcare provider may test for the presence of these autoantibodies.
C-peptide Test: This blood test measures the level of C-peptide, a molecule released when insulin is produced. People with LADA often have lower C-peptide levels because their pancreas’s ability to produce insulin gradually decreases. This test can help differentiate LADA from type 2 diabetes.
GAD Antibody Test: Glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) antibodies are commonly associated with LADA. Elevated levels of GAD antibodies in your blood can be a strong indicator of LADA.
Consultation with an Endocrinologist: Given the complexity of diagnosing LADA, it’s often beneficial to consult with an endocrinologist or a diabetologist, who specializes in diabetes care. They can review your test results and provide a precise diagnosis.
Monitoring: If you are diagnosed with LADA, your healthcare provider will likely recommend regular monitoring of your blood sugar levels and other aspects of your health to tailor an appropriate treatment plan. The progression of LADA can be slow, and treatment decisions may involve lifestyle changes, medications, or insulin therapy.

If you suspect you have LADA or are experiencing symptoms of diabetes, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional. Early diagnosis and intervention can help manage the condition effectively and reduce the risk of complications.

How to Treat Latent Diabetes?

The treatment of latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA) or “hidden” diabetes typically involves managing blood sugar levels and minimizing the risk of complications. The approach to treatment for LADA shares similarities with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes management. Here are some common strategies:

Blood Sugar Monitoring:
- Regularly monitor your blood sugar levels to understand how your body responds to various factors, including food, exercise, and medications.
- Keep a blood sugar log and work with your healthcare provider to set target ranges.
Diet and Nutrition:
- Follow a balanced and healthy diet, emphasizing whole foods, fiber-rich choices, and portion control.
- Coordinate with a registered dietitian or nutritionist to create a personalized meal plan.
- Monitor carbohydrate intake to help manage post-meal blood sugar spikes.
Physical Activity:
- Engage in regular physical activity. Exercise can help improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels.
- Discuss an exercise plan with your healthcare team and ensure your activities align with your abilities and needs.
Medications:
- Depending on your blood sugar levels, your healthcare provider may prescribe oral medications typically used in type 2 diabetes. These may include metformin, sulfonylureas, or dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors.
- LADA may require the use of insulin earlier in the course of treatment, especially if your blood sugar levels are not well controlled with oral medications.
Insulin Therapy:
- Insulin is a common treatment for LADA, as it directly supplements your body’s diminishing insulin production.
- Your healthcare provider will help determine the appropriate type of insulin (rapid-acting, long-acting, or a combination) and create an insulin regimen tailored to your needs.
- Regularly monitor your blood sugar to make insulin dosage adjustments as necessary.
Autoantibody Monitoring:
- Periodic testing for autoantibodies, such as GAD antibodies, helps confirm the autoimmune nature of LADA and guide treatment decisions.
Support and Education:
- Seek education and support from healthcare providers, diabetes educators, and support groups.
- Understand the importance of self-care, including monitoring, managing stress, and recognizing signs of low or high blood sugar.
Regular Check-ups:
- Schedule regular check-ups with your healthcare team to monitor your overall health and diabetes management.
- Address any concerns or complications early.
Lifestyle Modifications:
- Make lifestyle changes to manage other risk factors for cardiovascular disease, which can be more prevalent in people with LADA.

It’s crucial to work closely with your healthcare team, which may include endocrinologists, diabetes educators, dietitians, and other specialists, to develop an individualized treatment plan for your specific needs.

Although the progression of LADA may be slower than type 1 diabetes, it can be unpredictable. Early intervention and effective management can help control blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications.

Hidden Sugar During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, it’s essential to be mindful of hidden sugars in your diet. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to gestational diabetes, excessive weight gain, and other complications. Here are some tips to help you identify and manage hidden sugar while pregnant:

Read Food Labels: Examine food labels for ingredients like high fructose corn syrup, sucrose, fructose, maltose, and dextrose. These are different forms of added sugars that can be hidden in various processed foods.
Be Cautious with Beverages: Many sweetened beverages, including fruit juices, soda, and sweetened tea, contain hidden sugars. Opt for water, herbal tea, or naturally flavored water to stay hydrated.
Choose Whole Fruits: While fruits contain natural sugars, they also provide essential nutrients and fiber. Avoid fruit juices and fruit-flavored snacks that often have added sugars.
Limit Sugary Snacks: Avoid sugary snacks and desserts, such as pastries, cookies, and candies. Opt for healthier snacks like Greek yogurt, nuts, or fresh fruit.
Opt for Plain Yogurt: Flavored yogurts can be high in added sugars. Choose plain yogurt and add fresh fruit or honey for natural sweetness.
Cook at Home: Preparing meals at home allows you to control the ingredients and avoid hidden sugars that are commonly added to restaurant dishes.
Avoid Processed Foods: Processed foods often contain hidden sugars. Focus on whole, unprocessed foods like lean proteins, vegetables, and whole grains.
Reduce Condiments: Some condiments, like ketchup, barbecue sauce, and salad dressings, can be sources of hidden sugar. Use them sparingly or make your own to control sugar content.
Manage Cravings: If you have cravings for something sweet, consider healthier options like fresh berries, dark chocolate, or frozen yogurt without added sugar.
Monitor Portion Sizes: Even in healthier foods, portion control is essential. Eating large quantities of foods with natural sugars can still impact your blood sugar levels.
Regular Check-ups: Attend all prenatal appointments, including glucose tolerance tests. This helps your healthcare provider monitor your blood sugar levels and detect gestational diabetes.
Consult a Registered Dietitian: If you’re unsure about managing your diet during pregnancy, consult a registered dietitian or nutritionist who can create a meal plan that meets your nutritional needs without excessive added sugar.

Remember, it’s not about eliminating all sugars from your diet but rather managing your sugar intake by making informed and healthy choices. Maintaining a balanced diet can help you stay healthy and reduce the risk of complications during pregnancy.

Hidden Sugar: Treatment, What is, Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis