Sugar occurs naturally in many foods, from fruit to dairy products, but it's added to a whole lot more.
Parents who are worried about their children having too much sugar in their diets should check food labels before they buy
and try to discourage unhealthy snacking habits, to help lower their risk of oral health and general health problems.
Sugar isn't always a bad thing. As a carbohydrate, it's a source of energy that helps to power the body. But as the amount
of sugar consumed increases, its negative health effects can quickly overtake the positive.
Health authorities such as the World Health Organization advise that sugar intake should not exceed more than 10% of a person's daily energy intake.
For someone with a healthy body mass index, this means about 50g or 12 teaspoons of sugar per day.
If you're concerned about how much sugar is present in packaged food, you should check the nutritional labels and compare products before you
make a purchase.
Limiting sugary snacks and drinks can help to lower your risk of tooth decay, and substituting teeth-friendly snacks such as fresh fruit
and vegetables, natural yoghurt and unsweetened dairy goods can help to strengthen your teeth against plaque.
You should also make sure to
maintain good oral
hygiene
by brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing every day, drinking plenty of water (especially fluoridated tap water) and visiting the Port Smiles team
for a
regular checkup. Your dentist may recommend preventive treatments for children to help lower their risk of decay.