Cutting down sugar as a family

Lowering sugar supports children's teeth and overall health. It does not mean banning treats, just making sweet foods and drinks less of an everyday habit.

Start with drinks

Water and milk are the best everyday drinks for children. Swapping sugary drinks is often the easiest first step.

Make treats occasional, not daily

Keeping sweet snacks for now and then, rather than every day, helps children enjoy them without them becoming a habit.

Easy swaps to try

• Water or milk instead of sugary drinks
• Fruit or plain yoghurt for everyday snacks
• Smaller portions of sweet treats
• Check labels on cereals and yoghurts

Lead together

Children take cues from the whole family, so making changes together works better than singling anyone out.