Sugar tax would 'cut childhood obesity'

Conclusion This modelling study aimed to estimate the possible health effects related to industry responses to the sugar tax proposed for soft drinks. The research suggests that the largest health benefits might be seen if products were reformulated to contain less sugar. Additional benefits were seen if some of the tax from high- and mid-sugar drinks was passed on to the consumer, and activities to increase the market share of low-sugar products. It would make sense that these measures would result in positive health effects. However, this is only a modelling study, and while the researchers have attempted to make these estimates as true to life as possible, they cannot be completely accurate. Sugar-sweetened beverages, though commonly consumed by children and young people, are only one source of sugar. If sugar is still being consumed in high amounts through confectionery, baked goods, in ready-made meals and sauces, or added sugar to food and drinks, then this may not have such great effect. Current recommendations are that free sugars should not exceed 5% of our total dietary energy intake. This applies to all age groups from two years upwards. In real terms, this means: no more than 19g a day of free sugars for children aged four to six no more than 24g a day for seven to 10-year-olds no more than 30g a day for children from age 11 and adults Read more about reducing sugar in the amount you, and your children, eat and drink. Links To The Headlines Sugary ...
Source: NHS News Feed - Category: Consumer Health News Tags: Food/diet Pregnancy/child Source Type: news