Concerned parents are calling for fruit to be reinstated as half and full time snacks during kids’ sports games.
They’re speaking out over the weekend in an effort to reverse an unhealthy trend of lollies being offered to children as mid and post-game snacks.
It’s disappointing to hear that many parents feel pressured and powerless to talk to each other and to their sports clubs to see this change.
Excessive sugar consumption is associated with serious health issues such as weight gain and obesity – which can lead to some cancers, type 2 diabetes and heart problems.
While obesity is caused by a range of complex factors, we know that eating a healthy diet and limiting sugary, fatty and salty food and drinks is an important aspect of maintaining a healthy weight.
We encourage parents to talk to sports clubs and committees and to get fruits and vegetables on the halftime agenda.
Oranges, apples, bananas, carrots, watermelon, even small wholegrain sandwiches with protein would provide a healthy mid-game energy boost.
Chief health officer Jeanette Young is urging parents to call on sports club committees to ban soft drinks at weekend sport, saying consumption after a game reinforced great behaviour with bad nutrition.
At least one-third of all cancers are preventable through lifestyle adjustments including eating a healthy diet, being physically active, reducing alcohol intake and maintaining a healthy weight.
More information about Cancer Council Queensland is available at www.cancerqld.org.au or Cancer Council Helpline 13 11 20.