Cut calories campaign to beat obesity
PARENTS in Halton are being encouraged to choose 100 calorie snacks instead of unhealthier options for their youngsters after recent data revealed the extent of childhood obesity in the borough.
Public Health England (PHE) figures show that half of children’s sugar intake – currently around seven sugar cubes a day – comes from unhealthy snacks and sugary drinks which can lead to obesity and dental decay.
According to recent data, more than a quarter of children in reception in Halton – 26.6% – are classed as overweight and obese.
The rate increases in those in Year 6 with more than a third – 38.3% – falling into the categories.
Across the North West as a whole, 23.9% of four to five-year-olds are overweight or obese, increasing to 35.2% in 10 to 11-year-olds.
Each year children across England are consuming almost 400 biscuits, nearly 100 portions of sweets and more than 150 juice drink pouches and cans of fizzy drink.
The new Change4Life from PHE campaign encourages parents in Runcorn and Widnes to seek 100 calorie snacks at two per day maximum.
It is designed to help parents purchase healthier snacks than the ones they currently buy.
Parents will be signposted and given special offers on a range of healthier snacks, including fruit and vegetables at selected supermarkets.
They can also receive money-off vouchers to help them try healthier snack options including ● malt loaf, lower sugar fromage frais, and drinks with no added sugar.
The tip applies to all snacks apart from fruit and vegetables, as children should also be encouraged to eat a variety of these.
Steve Morton from PHE North West said: “On average, children in England are consuming at least three unhealthy snacks and sugary drinks a day, with around a third consuming four or more. The overall result is that children consume three times more sugar than is recommended.
“Changing our children’s snacking habits can be a real challenge and we want to make it easier for families to find healthier options.
“By asking parents to look for 100 calories snacks, two a day max, we’re helping them to give heathier snacks, while giving them less frequently.”
A PHE spokesman said a third of children leave primary school overweight or obese.
The organisation is working with the food industry nationally to cut 20% of sugar from the products children consume most by 2020, with work to reduce calories due to start in 2018.
PHE chief nutritionist Dr Alison Tedstone said: “The true extent of children’s snacking habits is greater than the odd biscuit or chocolate bar.
“Children are having unhealthy snacks throughout the day and parents have told us they’re concerned.
“To make it easier for busy families, we’ve developed a simple rule of thumb to help them move towards healthier snacking.
“Look for 100 calories snacks, two a day max.”