Processed sugar, also known as refined sugar, is sugar that has been extracted from plant sources such as sugar cane or sugar beets and has undergone a refining process. During the refining process, the sugary juices are extracted from the harvested plants, and the liquid is further processed until it crystallizes. The crystals are spun to remove the liquid, which becomes molasses, leaving behind dried sugar crystals. Refined sugar is used to sweeten cakes, cookies, coffee, cereal, and many other foods and beverages. It is also added to many processed foods like soft drinks, ice cream, and pickles to add bulk and flavor. Processed sugar contains a lot of calories and doesn’t provide much in the way of nutrition. Consuming too much processed sugar may increase the risk of vascular and heart disease, diabetes, weight gain, liver disease, dementia, depression, and some types of cancer. Therefore, it is recommended to limit the intake of processed sugar and opt for natural sugars found in fruits and other foods.