Paediatric dietitian Lucy Upton says: “The risks of excess weight gain on a child’s health outcomes are well documented.

“That said, dieting and weight loss isn’t something that should b­­­­e promoted or pushed upon children, they need to ensure they have a healthy diet with balance in their food.”

Here she shares eight easy switches . . . 

FIZZY DRINK FOR NO-SUGAR SQUASH

SAVES 139 CALORIES

DITCHING full-sugar fizzy drinks is an easy way to help reduce the intake of excess calories. It also helps prevents tooth decay.

CHOC YOGHURT FOR PLAIN + FRUIT

SAVES 91 CALORIES

ADDING the sweetness of fruit to plain natural yoghurt is a win-win. It helps towards their five a day and offers fibre and vitamins.

BIG CHOC BAR FOR FUN-SIZE BAR

SAVES 145 CALORIES

EVEN swaps to the size of foods that kids may occasionally eat can contribute to reducing the overall risk of excess calorie intake.

CHOC CAKE BAR FOR MALT LOAF BAR

SAVES 49 CALORIES

MALT loaf bars can provide a much slower release of energy than chocolate bars, which helps children to stay fuller for longer.

SALTED CRISPS FOR POPCORN

SAVES 86 CALORIES

POPCORN is a great source of fibre to include in kids’ diets. Cooking it at home can ensure limited oil is used to make kernels pop.

FISH SHOP SUPPER FOR FINGERS

SAVES 738 CALORIES

HOMEMADE versions of takeaway favourites mean food like chips or battered fish can be included as part of a balanced diet.

TAKEAWAY PIZZA FOR PITTA PIZZA

SAVES 620 CALORIES

SWAP three slices of takeaway pizza for a throw-together pitta or tortilla pizza at home. Cheaper and more nutritious.

TANGFASTICS FOR RAISIN SNACK

SAVES 107 CALORIES

SWAPPING sweets for a sweet but nutritious fruit-based snack can help children increase their fibre intake.

This article was first published on The Sun, see the original here: https://www.thesun.co.uk/fabulous/food/19254638/switching-snacks-food-tricks-kids/