READING LABELS

If the food doesn’t have a label – fruit, vegetables, rice, pasta – then you will know any sugar is ‘naturally occurring’. You may be surprised what food manufacturers sneak sugar into – bread, sauces, convenience meals and even soup – all to make the food taste better. It doesn’t mean you shouldn’t eat these things, but it’s good to be aware of what is in your food. Brands are good at disguising sugar on labels, too. Over 60 different ingredients are synonyms for ‘sugar’ –including sucrose, dextrose and rice syrup.

Top Tip

There is no need to completely remove sugar from your diet. It’s fine to eat your favourite sugary foods from time to time as part of a balanced diet.

Small Changes To Decrease Sugar Intake 5

Cut Down On Sugar In Your Tea Or Coffee

If you have a couple of spoonfuls in each drink, cut it down over time until you don’t need it any more.

LIKE SUGAR ON YOUR CEREAL?

Go for honey instead. It will give you the sweet kick you want in a natural form.

‘LOW FAT’ OFTEN EQUALS ‘HIGH SUGAR’

Often fat is replaced with sugar to keep the taste. If you love the ‘low fat’ option, simply cut the portion size.

SMOOTHIES & JUICES

Although the sugar may be ‘naturally occurring’, too much sugar can be bad news for your teeth. Use a straw to protect yourself further.

SIMPLY DON’T BUY AS MANY SWEET TREATS

If you have them in your cupboard, you are more likely to eat them. Opt for fruit instead when the urge to consume sugar strikes.