Weekend Argus (Saturday Edition)
Keep an eye on your child’s sugar intake
THE HOLIDAY season is when families relax together and often break from regular eating routines.
For children, it could be eating more sweets, and drinking more juice and fizzy drinks, which will see a spike in sugar intake.
It’s important to get them back into a healthy routine, especially now that as schools have restarted.
Specialist dietitian Mbali Mapholi said: “The ease of access to sugary drinks and treats, and the prevalence of sugar in everyday foods, means children are often experiencing a highsugar diet without parents or caregivers being fully aware of it. However, with just a few small changes, caregivers can provide children with a more nutritious diet.”
Tips Mapholi gave to keep children healthier in 2022 include reducing intake of sugary drinks; creating more home-made snacks; preparing ahead for special occasions and outings; using non-food related reward systems for kids; and, reducing take-out or restaurant eating.
She said in recent years children's added sugar intake had increased dramatically.
“This is fuelled by high sugary drinks intake, poor planning, and high sugar treats used as rewards.
“The amount of added sugar kids consistently consume leads to big blood sugar spikes over time resulting in higher risk of insulin resistance, prediabetes and Type 2 diabetes.
“It also affects a child’s mood, activity and hyperactivity levels.
“These reasons make it important to reduce added sugar intake to a maximum of six teaspoons a day.”
Anthea Petersen, whose daughter attends Somerset House, said: “I keep a keen eye on my children’s sugar intake, even the older ones. I prefer no added sugar products, as too much sugar gives children mood swings and loads of unwanted activity.
“I believe that what your children eat while growing up, helps a great deal with their diet and weight issues later.”
Laureen Mostert, who has two children at school, said: “I was brought up with ‘eat what is put in front of me and finish the plate’, which didn't really create a healthy relationship with food for me. It’s about balance.
“If you withhold sugar or take-out eating, they are only going to overdo it when they get a chance. Besides, sometimes a mother needs some ‘motivational tools’,” she said.