High sugar foods contain over 22.5 grams of total sugars per 100 grams and low sugar foods contain less than 5 grams per 100 grams.
A can of cola contains the equivalent of 7 cubes of sugar. A high-sugar drink contains more than 11.25g per 100ml, and a low-sugar drink contains less than 2.5g.
Be aware of the names used for the different sugars on food & drink labels: sucrose, glucose, fructose, maltose, corn syrup, invert sugar and honey.
Pregnant? Avoid eating raw or partially cooked eggs, blue veined cheese, raw shellfish, pates and liver or liver products as these can cause harm to the baby.
Ready meals are often high in salt, sugar or fat. Making your own meals is healthier and works out much cheaper. Visit the NHS Choices Healthy Recipes page for healthy recipes.
At the supermarket, shelves at eye level usually contain the more expensive items. Try swapping branded products for the supermarket’s own brand.
If you have less money to spend on food, plan your meals a few days ahead, make a list before you go shopping and stick to it so you don’t buy too much.
Don’t use big plates as you may end up putting more food on them. Give children their own smaller plates and always serve them small portions.
Lots of food can be refrigerated and re-heated the next day. Only re-heat leftovers once, and always ensure food is piping hot throughout.
If you reduce your portion sizes too much and still feel peckish, increase the amount of salad or vegetables on your plate or have a piece of fruit instead of dessert.