Dr. Laura Chiavaroli is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Nutritional Sciences, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto and Affiliate Scientist at the Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital. Her research program uses a variety of methodologies to assess cardiovascular and diabetes clinical practice guidelines on dietary patterns and Canadian food policies to support or enhance them, including the development of digital tools and strategies for translation.
High intake of sugars is a public health concern. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses have demonstrated that harmful effects on some cardiometabolic outcomes are only observed when they are consumed as excess energy and in the form of sugar sweetened beverages. An overview of more recent systematic reviews and meta-analyses will be presented including a discussion of the role of the food matrix. Examples of the intended and unintended consequences of product reformulation of certain food sources of sugars will be provided. Participants will gain an understanding of the main sources of sugars in the Canadian diet and where the target of sugar reduction strategies, including the use of low and no calorie sweeteners, can have the most health impact.