A SWEET tooth has contributed to more than a quarter of ten and 11 year-olds in south Warwickshire being overweight or obese.
It has prompted health chiefs to urge parents to cut the sugar intake of their children. Public Health England says youngsters are eating almost double the recommended daily guidance of sugar.
Having a high sugar diet contributes to more than just the waistline. Sugar is one of the main causes of tooth decay and also increases the risk of Type 2 diabetes and heart disease as they get older.
Dr David Spraggett, GP and chair at NHS South Warwickshire CCG, said:“Changing the eating habits of children can be challenging, but simple sugar swaps can drastically cut back on the excess sugar children are eating.
“Take time to read the food and drink labels as cutting back on sugar can be as simple as changing from a chocolate or frosted coated cereal to a shredded wholegrain cereal or replacing a higher sugar drink for low fat milk or no added sugar drinks.
“If we cut back the sugar now before our children become young adults we are setting them up for a healthier, happier future.”
Visit www.nhs.uk for more information about the effects of sugar on health and for sugar swapping ideas.
