Americans have a love affair with sugar. The biggest culprit? Soft drinks, which account for one-third of our total sugar intake. Plus, table sugar, honey, candies, jams and jellies, cookies, cakes and sweetened fruit drinks all fuel our sugar habit.

Why worry about sugar intake? Two reasons: calories and lack of vitamins and minerals. Munching on cookies instead of fresh fruit for a morning snack adds lots of unnecessary calories and provides little fiber or vitamin C.

Are sugar-free sweet foods okay? Not in my book. They perpetuate the desire for something sweet, and don't encourage us to learn new, healthier eating habits. Most sugar-free foods are high on calories, and low on healthy vitamins and minerals.

Cut back on sugar with the help of our handy lists:
     • Foods to toss
     • Foods to keep
     • Foods to stock up on

Get the facts on low-sugar eating:
     • Quiz: Are you a sugar addict?
     • Conquer your cravings for sweets
     • The Sweet Tooth's Diet
     • Ask the Healthy Eating Expert message board