Final answer:
A nutrient-dense form of sugar in a beverage would be naturally occurring sugars found in unsweetened tea, coffee, or milk, as they provide additional essential nutrients along with hydration, unlike beverages with added sugars such as sugary sweetened soft drinks.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question you’ve asked touches on the concept of nutrient density and sources of sugar in beverages. If you are looking for a beverage that provides a nutrient-dense form of sugar, you should choose one that contains naturally occurring sugars rather than those with added sugars. Added sugars are commonly found in sugary sweetened soft drinks, which are low in nutrients and associated with various health risks.
In contrast, beverages such as unsweetened tea or coffee, and milk with naturally occurring sugars offer additional nutrients and are a healthier choice. When considering milk, for example, it not only contains lactose, a natural sugar, but also provides essential nutrients such as calcium, vitamin D, and protein.
According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, roughly 50% of Americans consume sugary drinks daily, which has been linked to health issues including obesity, Type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Drinking beverages like water or tea without added sugars is a simple way to avoid excess sugar consumption and focus on hydration and nutrient intake.