IS MY SUGAR BAN FOR SON ALL WRONG?

Dear Coleen

My little boy is four and since he’s been able to eat proper food, I’ve banned sugar in all its forms. His nursery knew not to give him sweets and puddings, and now he’s just started school, I’ve said the same thing to them.

I had a really sweet tooth as a child and ended up very overweight – my parents didn’t really have any policy on treats and I got too much.

The problem is, now I’m in with a new crowd of mums, I feel they think I’m over the top and even a bit cruel for my sugar ban.

One even said I was “mean”, even though she said it in a jokey way. I’ve talked to my own mum about it, but she doesn’t agree with what I’m doing either.

Surely I shouldn’t feel bad that my son has a healthy diet? But I do!

Coleen says

I think you have to be a little careful not to project your experiences as a child on to your son. He’s a different person with different physiology, likes and dislikes – he might not have the same craving for sugar at all.

And there is a school of thought that suggests banning something altogether only makes people crave it all the more – it’s human nature to want what you can’t have. So, just be aware that when he’s older and able to make food choices himself, he might overdo it on the donuts!

That aside, you’re his mum and if you make decisions based on what you think is best, then stick by them and don’t feel judged.

There’s every chance you’re making these other mums feel a little bad about their own choices.