Food & Drink

What's the deal with sugar?

Food & Drink

Posted by: Rainbow

16th Mar 2012 10:29am

Do you think the Government should play a part in prohibiting the amount of sugar that's 'hidden' in processed foods? Perhaps imposing a tax on sugar? Do you think more education should be given on the dangers of excess sugar intake? Have you cut out sugar in the past and noticed a difference in your health and weight? Do you have a sugar substitute? Or do you simply not care...?

Comments 207

Anonymous
  • 15th Oct 2012 12:27pm

I do not think it should be taxed but it definatly should be monitored and made more aware of what sugars are in food, sugar plays a big part in you health and lifestyle

Anonymous
  • 12th Oct 2012 12:39pm

yes they should play apart in it.

erogenius
  • 6th Sep 2012 07:59pm

The government's hypocricy shows whenever the smell of money interferes.They're big on preaching about health, especially obesity, but have allowed the practice of unecessarily adding sugar to foods to continue unabated.Why?Because it's a $2 billion dollar plus industry

thedarkness
  • 24th Apr 2012 03:15am

More education on the dangers of sugar is a must.
A sugar tax is not ludicrous but maybe regulations show be made in regards to processed foods such as guide lines or like a maximum sugar content weight.
I try to limit my sugar intake. I have one in my coffee and then once in a blue moon ill have a can of coke which i could drink everyday if i didn't know how bad it was for me. Diet and Zero are just not the same.

Isildae
  • 21st Apr 2012 06:43pm

I'm very concerned about the amount of refined white sugar we eat as a society. There are some very interesting articles about the links between sugar and cancer as well as obesity. I think for some of us - particularly those like myself with a common endocronological disorder that causes insulin resistance who require a carefully considered diet - we need to pay particular attention. I can eat a low-fat diet and put on weight. It's not fat making me fat, it's sugar and most low-fat products have more sugar than the regular version. I buy full fat for my (skinny) kids and I also take care to reduce the amount of sugar we eat as a family by using alternatives in baking (Stevia for example). I wonder whether the rise in cancer, diabetes etc. can be attributed to our astronomical rise in consumption of sugar. I definitely have an addiction to the stuff although I'm getting better - I recently couldn't even sip a fast food thickshake because it was sickeningly sweet. Won't be buying one of those again.
Do yourself a favour and read some articles on the history of sugar introduction to our diet (only a few decades ago!) and the process of making refined white sugar (which is the most common form we eat). Particularly if you suffer from ongoing unexplained symptoms such as headaches. Unfortunately there are so many different types of sugar (sucrose, glucose, fructose) that the average layperson needs a degree in nutritional science to figure it out. Plainer labelling might make things easier - then again, the government recently decided NOT to overturn the hidden labelling of palm oil which can be found in everything from biscuits to toothpaste, basically as a filler. Rainforests are being destroyed in order to harvest this financially cheap resource at the expense of animal habitats. Money is what makes the world go round and those huge companies churning out sugar laden fizzy drinks and products are also the ones that supply our politicians with donations and funding. I agree with all things in moderation but our national consumption of refined white sugar is not moderate at all, unfortunately it's cheap and cheap is all anybody seems to want.

Gerry1945
  • 21st Apr 2012 11:20am

I dropped sugar in tea and coffee and now use Natvia which is a non chemical plant based sweetener made from the leaves of the Stevia plant. It is safe and you only need a 1/8th to a 1/4 of a teaspoon or less and it has no aftertaste like the chemical ones. I lost 5 kilos in a few months from my belly fat and being male it was a great improvement.

pebbles
  • 21st Apr 2012 11:07am

Sugar is toxic to many people our bodies have trouble processing it sugar is in all processed foods , even natural sugars are bad for some of us like fructose found in fruit , highly processed sugars like corn syrup and wheat glucose as well , there needs to be an emphasis on regulating the amount of sugar and salt that goes into processed foods , and an almighty push for eating more unprocessed foods , , i use a sugar substitute for cooking and every day , my sugar substitute in natvia which is a natural sugar alternative made from a plant called stevia .

mika08
  • 20th Apr 2012 10:43pm

Today I got totally stressed out with regard to a situation and then turned to my calming and reassuring friend - chocolate - and boy did I feel soooo much better afterwards. It is all about moderation and looking after yourself. I don't drink alcohol or smoke so a bit of sugar is okay with me.

tota
  • 20th Apr 2012 08:43pm

i think that the goverment should play a part on prohibiting the amount of sugar in processed foods it is not good for ur heaith u can gain lots of weight as well

ozycash
  • 20th Apr 2012 07:56pm

what hidden sugar?
just read the ingredients. they are listed in highest amount first
once you become diabetic you learn how much sugar is in everything because you learn to read ingredients

Anonymous
  • 5th Apr 2012 01:14pm

To be honest I dont care at all. Sugar is good on ocassions and aslong as you have it in moderation it is not bad for you

CAT17
  • 27th Mar 2012 06:46pm

Just wanted to say - I will not have to pay a tax or do anything to stop me using sugar I HAVE GIVEN IT UP! Don't miss it and am really trying to watchout for "hidden" sugar in processed food. I feel really good when I prepare a meal now when I have used all fresh food and no ADDED sugar!

tonylovesotis
  • 26th Mar 2012 08:35pm

I'm all for government staying out of people's life (generally) although I believe that too much sugar in our diet is certainly contributing to the obesity epidemic. But manufacturers put sugar in nearly everything: bread, milk, soup, etc. Besides, I never eat anything with sugar - I don't like sweet tastes, yet I'm still as fat as a small pig. Please explain that to me.

glenoak
  • 23rd Mar 2012 10:46pm

It is up to the parents to make a good example with children, with what they eat. Start from a young age and use lollies and chocolate for treats and special occasions.Moderation is what I think. Next they will be telling us there is something in milk that is harmful to children or something! Manufacturers could lower the sugar content of some things, but can you imagine enjoying half a packet of tim tams when the kids are in bed? If they changed the recipe? Do your best to give your children a balanced diet, that's all you can do. With that in mind, I wish people would stop zoning in on salt and sugar like that's the only bad thing that's happening in the world. (You ought to see how much sugar I like on my weet bix..disgusting, but ever so yummy!)

traceyc68
  • 21st Mar 2012 11:03am

I do not care although i agree we should be able to know exactly how much sugar is in packaged foods

Andrewsgirl
  • 21st Mar 2012 10:34am

Oh how sweet it is.. I love sugary foods even though I know it's not good for me. I try to live by the old adage everything in moderation but it is hard. If it really is as bad as "they say" for us then yes there should be some government campaign running to make everybody more aware of it's dangers.

ariellalee
  • 21st Mar 2012 07:35am

I think there is already ALOT of information/education out there on sugar and its upsides/downsides, and i definitely think that it is the parents responsibility to ensure that their children aren't consuming a mass amount of sugar and also to ensure that their children are also educated as to why too much of something is never really a good thing, on the other hand i don't believe in completely restricting any food group, my children eat balanced diets, they eat more fruit than veges, but more veges than treats, actually my 3yr old prefers fruit and veges to sweet foos and is still yet to finish an entire chupachup lollipop lol, BUT i don't go overboard and not allow them any sugar at all, i try to stay away from artificial sweeteners but at the end of the day the saying 'everything in moderation' works for our family in regards to all food groups.

gaygay55
  • 20th Mar 2012 10:38pm

I don't agree with a tax on sugar. Groceries are already getting so expensive especially on a limited income. But bigger labels showing sugar and salt in products would be much better. I constantly check labels now and get a real shock when I come acress some of the sugar and salt added to produts. Education is definitely the way to go. But the government has to do something really quickly to ensure any hidden products are on the labels.

Vicki
  • 20th Mar 2012 02:56pm

I get rather tired of the idea that the 'government' should get involved at all in what we eat. I don't see why anyone needs to be told what is good or bad. If it is bad - ban it. There are enough taxes already and another one is not going to change eating habits. Eating habits are something that are learned and if the parents don't eat right no amount of tax will change how the kids eat. Leave the whole 'lets tell everyone how to eat' out of legislation. Every year there is a new thing you shouldn't eat, then the following year that one turns out to be okay and a new baddy appears. Leave it!!

Buggy
  • 20th Mar 2012 01:06pm

Hi everyone I am Diabetic so have to be very careful of how much sugar and fat is in all the food i eat so yes it would be great if the government did more to ensure the quality of food available to us

Anonymous
  • 20th Mar 2012 12:33pm

sugar cuts off whatever indicates to the body that it is satisfied with the meal etc, instead it (the body) is tricked into thinking that it is still hungry, i have cut out a lot of sugar in my house, we try to only use raw sugar, because white sugar is responsible for the bulging waistlines you see everywhere. i have also had a last binge of chocolates and choc biscuits, its over!, its really bad for us, all things in moderation is the best way to take back control of what we put into ourselves











































































































Anonymous
  • 20th Mar 2012 12:30pm

sugar cuts off whatever indicates to the body that it is satisfied with the meal etc, instead it (the body) is tricked into thinking that it is still hungry, i have cut out a lot of sugar in my house, we try to only use raw sugar, because white sugar is responsible for the bulging waistlines you see everywhere. i have also had a last binge of chocolates and choc biscuits, its over!, its really bad for us, all things in moderation is the best way to take back control of what we put into ourselves

Ellessri
  • 20th Mar 2012 09:26am

I am lucky enough to be able to eat pretty much whatever I wat without it affecting my weight. A lot of chocolate is ruled out for me as I am allergic to nuts.
Sweet things are fine, as long as it's in moderation and not to excess.

Clint Marchant
  • 19th Mar 2012 09:50pm

I never used to worry what I ate as everything in moderation is good, problem is due to my medication I'm on I am now a type 1 diabetic and I can tell you not having real sugar sux big time all the sweeteners don't come close to the real thing but what worries me most is what is the long time side effects of these chemically manufactured equivelants

kfactor
  • 19th Mar 2012 08:10pm

Hi Trudy,
I'm not sure if there is a easy solution to this problem. I have to pay very close attention to the amount of sugar my family uses. And I believe that it is vital that all families monitor their children. We have an obscene amount of overweight children (not to mention adults as well) - who don't know what vegetables are, or that it is good for you to play outside and interact with others. Education on nutrition and proper table manners, should start at home with a return to families sitting down together for the evening meal, instead of relying on fast food outlets. I know this sounds very very old fashioned, and with both parents having to work it is not easy, however try to take time out, maybe just one night a week, to sit down to a properly balanced dinner. Who knows, you might even get to know the kids better!!
Take care

lizmo
  • 19th Mar 2012 07:22pm

Don't think it is a government problem. Coming from a house with allergies I would say there is a need for better food labelling. No to sugar tax. Yes, to dangers. Especially with the latest research coming out. Yes after cutting out sugar when dieting I always notice my body struggles for first few weeks. Notice with my breath, tiredness and mood. Once my body adjusts its sweet.

The Pres
  • 19th Mar 2012 04:16pm

I dont care, I love my sugar, I know that is bad, but I love my sugar!

DMcF
  • 19th Mar 2012 03:40pm

I was raised to regard sweet foods as “treats” rather than as “snacks”; and neither “treats” nor “snacks” were regarded as “real food”. I was lucky enough to be relatively unaffected by what I ate, until I turned 60 years old – then my waist filled out much more than I ever wanted. Limiting my sugar & other calories and fats intake has not been particuarly successful in reducing my waistline.

The govt involvement with sugar and any other processed foods ingredients should be to ensure highly visible & complete & EASILY UNDERSTOOD ingredients & nutritional information (like stating “this packet/bottle contains the equivilant of 20 teaspoons of sugar from a variety of ingredients”) – not hidden in an obscure place on the packet in the smallest print they can get away with.

Additionally, part of the school curriculum should include health & nutrition & exercise for a healthy life, as much as having reading, writing & math for basic work skills, and relationships-citizenship-social studies for cooperative communities. However, BOTH parents and schools have rolls to fulfill in all of these, not just one or the other.

If/when the addictive-harmful affects of too much sugar consumption are scientifically validated, as has been shown for tobacco consumption, then govt has a role to implement the control of non-essential use of sugar.

Rather than banning or severely regulating the use of sugar, a more effective strategy might be to create more economic demand for unsweetened or naturally sweetened foods (no added natural sugars nor concentrated product to up the sugar level) – eg: bread without added corn syrup or honey or dextrose or fructose beyond what is minimally necessary for the yeast to rise; sauces without any added sweetening from any source (natural or artifical); peanut butter & hazelnut butter without any added sugars; etc.

Ro
  • 19th Mar 2012 02:37pm

It is the hidden sugars - in canned produce - bread - sauce.
We as NZers are not too bad on sugar intake we dont serve 2liter coke at the take aways YET.
I know that our wine that is exported to the USA has a higher sugar content or sweetness than we export to other countries The American pallet has become desensitized to sweetness.
Some sugar substitutes have been linked to migraines and strokes - we dont seem to be able to win.
Think its time for a tea and a Tim Tam

coversharvey
  • 19th Mar 2012 01:52pm

Like everything else in life moderation is the key

cacciyoda
  • 19th Mar 2012 11:47am

Mum cut out sugar about 10 years ago. Made a massive change. She was only slightly heavy but shed it all and is in great shape now without major changes in other parts of her diet.

mike632
  • 19th Mar 2012 10:31am

Ah! Timtam heaven! I share your feelings. And yes, I have cut down my sugar over the last decade or more- from 2 to one-half a teaspoon per cup of tea/coffee and a very light sprinkle on cereal. No real health reason just a taste change. As for timtams- still love 'em but who can afford them these days? I only buy them on special discount periods and even that is occasionally. Do we need more regulations,really?

Anonymous
  • 19th Mar 2012 08:32am

This country is already overloaded wiith government taxes. what is wrong with parents being responsible, and NEVER giving young children sugar or salt, or processed food, grief and moses, soon nobody will be responsible because the goverment will have legislated on every single thing, personal responsablity is a dirty phrase in this country, and you see very young mothers up the street with babies drinking coke or fanta from their bottles, no rules are going to stop that, it is to easy to just fill the baby bottle from their own, milk is exppensive, water is free!! go figure.

Magenta Bruine
  • 19th Mar 2012 08:25am

Hi Rainbow,

While I know sugar isn't good for you, I'm more interested in cutting out salt and fat. I do try to limit my sugar intake, and avoid palm derived fructose which is supposed to be especially bad for you.
There are so many things we are told to avoid, there's not much left! and I do love my dark chocolate which apparently is full of anti-oxidants, yeah!

rob
  • 19th Mar 2012 04:03am

Yes I think the govt should play a part in prohibiting the amount of sugar thats 'hidden' in processed foods.
No more taxes though!!! We pay more than enough already.
I definitely think more education should be given on the dangers of excess sugar intake. It could be included in health/ed.
I stopped using sugar in my tea and coffee over 30 years ago. Alas I currently have a very sweet tooth as I have replaced cigarettes with chupa chups and lollies. So now I'm addicted to sugar, which has caused my weight to sky rocket and I'm now on the verge of diabetes.
I have to re-educate my taste buds and try and get 'hooked' on something much less harmful to my health. ....ps Its gotta taste good though lol.

Anonymous
  • 18th Mar 2012 10:12pm

I think we ought to be responsible for our own sugar intake. Education at a younger age is far more important than imposing laws to prohibit the amount of sugar in processed foods. By the way - one ought to be careful with the amount of processed foods we take in anyway.

bluehoney
  • 18th Mar 2012 08:28pm

I do have two sugars in my coffee (low GI) won't change that. Do love my dark chocolate at night, yummy.

Martina
  • 18th Mar 2012 08:20pm

Definitely if I was a health minister I will do what ever it take to re-educate people about the danger of that sweet poison call white sugar.Prevention is better than cure its not fun when you have your love one who is battling this disease and the pressure that we put on our hospital when we could have prevent it.I rather scarify myself than suffering for the rest of my life.Our health is our wealth if we don't take care of it we will loose it and its only then we will realize what we have lost and yet its our choice
Why allowing people to eat the wrong food or drink the wrong drink then we have to find million to fix the problem that's crazy stop it before its spread.

Briggy
  • 18th Mar 2012 06:50pm

Yes. The government should get these food manufacturers to be accountable for the large amount of sugar they put in processed food as sugar is very addictive. Sort of like nicotine in cigarettes. Food manufacturers know that the sugar being addictive will encourage repeat purchases. A lot of time packaging which has the heart foundation tick says that it is probably low in sodium and fat but look at the sugar content!
It is unfortunate that the government needs to levy a tax on manufacturers to reduce sugar and that manufacturers don't do it on their own accord for the sake of their consumers.
And yes, if I can cut down on sugar and carbonydrates, I can find myself losing weight faster and have less sugar cravings. Sugar sub - Splenda ( whihc can be addictive too) , honey or zero sugar.

robmondo
  • 18th Mar 2012 04:59pm

i think the government should subsidize all healthy foods and hike the the price of the rubbish on our shelves

Shez
  • 18th Mar 2012 04:22pm

I think that the government should put a limit on sugar in products. If there is a tax it would cost the consumer more if they buy it as a treat or state on
the packaging in sugar so people are aware. I did cut out a lot of sugar as I was getting headaches and I lost a few kilos. :) shez
p

SassySue02
  • 18th Mar 2012 02:39pm

In my opinion nothing should be done about sugar. It is a natural food, tastes good and is a price that people can afford. Of late, there has been a lot said about how much sugar is bad for you and in large amounts I would agree. Our population is growing larger all the time and it is a concern to see that our children are becoming obese at such a young age. Eaten in moderation, sugar will not make you obese. I think the responsibility lies with parents to moderate how much sugar their children eat, and up to the adults to watch their sugar intake. All the information is written on the sides of products now for us to see, and if we can't cut back then that is our problem, not the government or anyone else. We have enough taxes now without adding a tax for sugar. SassySue02

Anonymous
  • 18th Mar 2012 02:37pm

No I do not think GOV should play a part... It is up to the individual. I try not to eat too much sugar but sometimes I just cant resist. When I cut down on sugar I do notice a difference in my weight.

marianne
  • 18th Mar 2012 12:43pm

i was watching that show about sugar. my father-in-law and husband were both there and we found it very interesting. however, in conversation it was obvious to me that they think its someone else whose health problems come from what they eat, but their family its not their fault ie genetic, slow metabolism etc. My mother-in-law got diabetes at 40 and she was well known for her sweet tooth. but they could not accept the two were linked, because her mum got diabetes as well. I'll bet her mum was a sweet tooth too!
All these excuses for medical problems from life style and diet is letting people of the hook. I think doctors should stop all this and tell people more clearly thats its most likely what they are eating that is causing the medical problem

squijeelulu
  • 18th Mar 2012 11:58am

I also don't care. I eat sugar in moderation, and have no problem with it. One teaspoonful is 15 calories, so if you have a brain and can add, you can control your sugar intake. We certainly DON'T need a tax on it! People need to be educated and take personal responsibility for their chosen lifestyles and leave the government out of it.
Furthermore, if we're looking for an alternative bio-fuel, sugar is ideal, and we grow plenty of it.
If there's NO tax on it, we can run machinery and cars so much more cheaply with a resource already in abundance in Australia. Think about it, and don't make it so expensive that sugar cane farmers and flow-on job employees are forced out of work!
Jamie Oliver should talk about education and personal responsibilty, NOT taxes and governmental reform!

Fluffy
  • 18th Mar 2012 10:59am

Hi I think because we are all so much in a hurry that we don't have the time to eat properly and the cost of buying the right foods are gettinjg out of hand, then cos we feel so low in energy we have a quick fix which is something sweet, for me mainly Chocolate, we need to have a look at having the right food more affordable and the goverment needs to step in to make this so with education and putting a cap on the cos of healthy food.

we eat poorly because we don't have time to cook, or don't know how to cook or it's easier to buy fastfood so you can then get back to work on time. or be home in time to get to bed, so we can get up on time for work the next day.

The goverment does need to play it's part by prohibiting the amount of sugar and sugar subsitutes and look at the lower income's wages and bring that up as well as looking at the work hours that people are made to work so that they can come home and have a family meal that is balanced.

There are a lot of people who care about there health but just can't get the information needed to check what's in your food now as there's not enough clear information on the packaging.

lenglish
  • 18th Mar 2012 10:30am

Nutritional info on food packaging gives a good indication of the sugar content of foods - as long as you can recognise the many possible names sugar. I wonder if there could be more clear labelling that defines sugar as sugar.

The other major issue I see is that big business has a huge stake in keeping us eating their products and the addition of sugar can make foods more addictive, and so more product is sold, meaning greater profits. Government legislation around reducing sugar content of foods would have major opposition from the business community which would see their profits reducing. It's all about money!!!

Ganic12
  • 18th Mar 2012 01:06am

The government can play a very important role in the action to reduce an using of sugar in diet. This educational program would be established in all schooles around Australia. Even some more radical sanctions in the cantines could be more effective. No fast food,no excessive amount of sugar etc would be main restrictions in the schools. It's a hard work but the effects of this program will be more important.

CAT17
  • 17th Mar 2012 11:56pm

I am on a roll on this sugar thing but really it is the colours that are in foods that is also worrying. A lot of food designed especially for children have colours that are quite frankly scarey. Froot loops is one cereal I am thinking of - the colours are "amazig" I have been in a classroom with "high"" kindergarten children who had "guess what" for breakfast. This is where Government Agencies who pass the quality and goodness of ingredients in food should be held accountable so that we as consumers can be confident in eating or giving such food to our children. I was told by a reliable source that the reason we were encouraged to eat the red Smarties first was because the red ones were not allowed to be sent to America where that particular chemical colour is banned. Eat fresh live longer!

Becmaw
  • 17th Mar 2012 11:45pm

Must be one of the lucky ones.. Don't care for sugary treats and don't get cravings for them.. Can't live without my morning coffee though.. As for more education on the topic I think it's a great idea, education should come from both parents and teachers and lets face it we don't need to devote an entire subject to the effects of sugar just enough to give kids the basics, and some kids probably need to learn about the effects of foods just as much as they need to learn math or science, maybe then we wouldn't be tackling childhood obesity?

CAT17
  • 17th Mar 2012 11:11pm

Sugar is absolutely a food that we should leave out of our diets but it is difficult when so many processed foods contain it. I try to keep my sugar intake down, but must admit I haven't cut if out completely (how can you have a BBQ without tomato sauce! No fruit juice for me either and eat FRESH and home cooked.
Now to Tim Tams - its not only the sugar in them that is bad, it is the "colours" they use to make the brown "chocolate' colour. Some of the chemicals used to create the "brown" are very harnful. Pleaswe give up Tim Tams and treat yourself by having a little good quality real dark chocolate. We all deserve a treat!

petag
  • 17th Mar 2012 09:52pm

I have been trying to lose weight for about 15 years without much success. I could eat a packet of Tim Tams in one sitting. I could also eat chocolate and lollies all day long. I wouldn't but I would love too.

I am not eating lollies or chocolate at the moment and have cut back on biscuits and alcohol. I have stopped drinking soft drink too. I wish the weight would just drop off but no such luck.

I'm hoping that 2012 will be the year when I get back to the weight I was before I had the 3rd of my 4 children. Cutting out sugar must be a good start. I am also trying to eat fruit every day and drinking lots of green tea.

It's not really the government's job to tax sugar. It is really up to the individual to take some responsibility for their diet. There is enough information out there but sugar is really addictive!!!

diaooraa
  • 17th Mar 2012 09:39pm

I dont think the government has the right to prohibit sugar amounts its up to people to decide weather or not they eat it but yes i think they should have to show more on packaging on foods to do with the amount of sugar and what type of sugar but nooo they should not tax sugar, sugar is still needed and good it just goes back to the old rule of everything in moderation. Well most people are told a bout it in health classes at school but yeh they could do more inn educating young ones about the effects of too much sugar and all the rest. i have cute down but i havent noticed any differance, nope i dont have a substitute as they usally worse for you with how proccessed they are and i do care about the bad sugars in foods

Jan the man
  • 17th Mar 2012 09:38pm

The fact that sugar is an issue shows me just how we are taking the rights of people
to the extreme. Sugar occurs in its natural form in lots of food are we going to stop eating fruit for example as many have sugar. It is the amount that children and adults eat that is the problem not the sugar itself. I do not think that it should be taxed as now everything that is in processed food has to be on the packets if it is to much then do not buy as simple as that.

Rob
  • 17th Mar 2012 09:38pm

I must say I am a sucker for some deserts like apple pie,although I generally watch my sugar intake & sometimes use sugar substitutes (which apparently also have their dangers) and sometimes nothing at all- I don't use white sugar at all or add sugar on cereal & in tea for instance.
Can't say it has made much difference to my weight. No, I don't agree with another tax. FAR too many anyway and it will not reduce consumption significantly..
Greater education is the key to balanced decision making & placing responsibility on the consumer

typhoon
  • 17th Mar 2012 09:00pm

actually with the runaway rise of diabetes in australia a warning that excess consumption may be putting you at risk would not go astray. Education on the risks of excess sugar should be a priority. So unless people are going to ramp up their exercise levels to compensate or dramatically reduce their sugar levels, the diabetes epidemic will continue unabated.

marmar
  • 17th Mar 2012 06:53pm

Ingredient lists on labels give the information on the amount of sugar contained in the product. Strict policing of this requirement is sufficient

Anonymous
  • 17th Mar 2012 06:48pm

I think it all comes down to the parents. Parents need to take responsibly for what they are feeding their families. No we don't need another tax, we already pay enough and also to the comments saying that the schools should be teaching it. Teachers were trained to teach our chn not take over the roles that parents have. If you choose to have a family - it is your responsibly to nurture, care and provide a healthy environment for your chn. People need to stop trying to pass the buck and take responsibly for their own actions. I use brown sugar and only ever half the amount in recipes, that is my choice.

Lissy
  • 17th Mar 2012 06:43pm

I THINK COMPANIES THAT PROCESS FOOD SHOULD BE LIABLE FOR THE AMOUNT OF SUGAR THEY PUT IN PROCESSED FOOD. YOU BUY CAN OF VEGETABLES AND IF YOU READ THE CAN IT HAS SALT AND SUGAR. WHY? IT SHOULD ONLY BE WATER AND THE VEGETABLE!

Lorraine
  • 17th Mar 2012 06:16pm

sshhh, don't tell anyone but I have a love affair with chocolate, lollies, cake, ice cream etc - what can I say it's wanton behaviour but I can't resist. Please forgive me body and teeth. Lucky for me I have been able to get away with it all these years but it will catch up with me. I was recently overseas in Malaysia and they are considering putting a tax on sugar. Too many getting diabetes and kidney diseases, so it's worldwide this love affair we have with sugar. Not sure what the answer is. I have never been able to cut back, maybe for a day but can't abstain for long.

bliss
  • 17th Mar 2012 05:48pm

think that the sugar content in all foods should be clearly shown
I do not use sugar but I take longer to shop, labels to read and not alone
but some of the packaging is written so small
you need a magnifying glass to read it at all
I also check carbohydrates too
as a lot of damage they can do
eat as much fresh food as I can possibly do
but got to admit sometimes a quick fix sneaks through
bliss

koko
  • 17th Mar 2012 05:27pm

I think we should be more education about the dangers of excess sugar intake, I was gain a bit of weight, I didn't care what I eat and how much sugar I was take, since I tried to cut out sugar, I found lots of foods contains the massive of sugar, I was intake excess sugar,I've never known and notice what damage to my health, nowI fell more light and lost weight, stop excess sugar intake,it's not just lost weight and also help to prevent the Diabetic and be healthy, I think the government should be labeling the amount of sugar on junk foods,
and also teach children how to cut out the excess sugar intake, and look after themselves and be more healthy.

spabath
  • 17th Mar 2012 05:07pm

The sugar I eat is usually contained in biscuits, cakes etc. I am usually careful and use Xylitol as a sugar substitute. I read in a health article that sugar is the cause of all evils. Just listened to Tony Ferguson do a presentation of his products at Terry White Chemist to what appeared to be quite of few diabetics. His message was to keep away from all sugars, bread and pastas. He failed to mention sugar substitutes or whole grain low GI pastas which he later admitted to me were okay. I say everything i moderation. We would die of worry if we followed all the health gurus' advice. My blood sugar level is great, don't have high blood pressure or cholesterol and I am 66 years old. Do a lot of exercise and I'm happy in what I do.

Aurora
  • 17th Mar 2012 05:03pm

Hi All, you each give fair reason in the sugar debate..but if you are old enough to
remember the 50's when food was just that, & loading up on fat, salt & sugar in
foodstuffs was limited...we were all much healthier. These days it makes no
difference to processed food manufacturers what the Government puts in place
rules wise...they will do as they please. After all, who is out there with rhe will to
police the rules?? No one. So, if we want to be healthy, it is down to each and
everyone of us to police what we buy. If that happens, and these sugar, fat, &
salt laden foods are left on the supermarket shelves, that will send the strongest message to both Supermarkets & Manufacturers that we, the public,
are not going to play their game.
Watch the "big two" drop these items from their repertoire when they are stuck
with them.
Then, when they don't reorder, the manufacturers will stop producing them.
Why?? No one wants to buy them. Result?? Healthier Aussies.

Anonymous
  • 17th Mar 2012 04:38pm

Beiinga diabetic, sugar is a no-no to me. However to bring a low blood sugar up sugar is a help I am concerned at the amount of over processing that occurs in our everyday food s like flour, cereals etc Sally

cocki
  • 17th Mar 2012 04:23pm

educating people re dangers of sugar is all good and well however, i love sugar, i will cut out anything else e.g bread but my sugar quota stays the same so frankly 'i dont care'
be strong and decide whats good for your own health

wabbit
  • 17th Mar 2012 03:52pm

definitely agree something should be done with the amount of childhood diabetes and overall obesity levels in Australia - and like many of you who have commented I am also lucky with my weight/health and can eat anything I like and get away with it :) There's always honey, but that can affect cholesterol levels, so what do you do in the long run??? Abstain, pig out or eat a bit of everything in moderation................

dima
  • 17th Mar 2012 03:28pm

Majority of people know that too much sugar is bad for us-thus the best is to educate people of the dangers of sugar,especially in soft drinks. Sugar substitutes can be even worse,since some of them could be cancernogenic.
Honey should be promoted.
There you have it
Cheers
Dimitri

roalfe
  • 17th Mar 2012 03:27pm

As a Type 2 Diabetic it is crutial that I watch what sugar and fat content is in foods. There are far too many items of food with too much sugar and fat in them. i.e. I was surprised to find out what sugar was in Tomato Sauce and some cereals. Some cereals have far too much sugar and fat for children to eat as well as adults. Manufacturers should take out a lot of sugar and fat in their products.

Anonymous
  • 17th Mar 2012 02:57pm

Yes there should be a law about the amount of sugar that can be hidden in foods, and definitely more education done about the dangers of sugar. But hey lets do it in a fun way so people will participate and not just be turned off.

Marivig
  • 17th Mar 2012 02:49pm

I cut our sugar years ago, but still cannot resist chocolate. I think parents should put more thought into what they put in their children's lunch boxes, Everything they feed their children has sugar in it, which hypes them up, then they will not sit still in lessons.

Wellygaz
  • 17th Mar 2012 01:46pm

It's all just common sense. People need information to make informed decisions and they can then choose what suits them - they can know the hazard and make a personal judgement on the risk. All taxes and bans etc will do is make more jobs for public servants - and won't do anything to reduce sugar consumption. After all, like salt, anyone can simply add more sugar and that makes it a lot harder to calculate intakes. It's not like there are no alternatives out there already.

Karsh
  • 17th Mar 2012 01:42pm

I eat very little sugar as such but believe there is a lot hidden in packaged foods. Raw sugar is natural so surely it can't be bad for you. In any case, I am not giving it up.

Anonymous
  • 17th Mar 2012 01:29pm

Oh please no more government! Added tax doesn't work; it hasn't stopped folks buying things in the past,
It is up to us to educate ourselves and decide for ourselves and our families what we eat. Moderation is the key to healthy eating. So have that big slice of devil's food cake with the scoop of ice cream, if that's your demon, but just don't do it everyday.
I have a friend who lost over 80 pounds by exercising and eating healthy...6 days a week. Every Saturday all bets were off...lol!!

Anonymous
  • 17th Mar 2012 01:28pm

Oh please no more government! Added tax doesn't work; it hasn't stopped folks buying things in the past,
It is up to us to educate ourselves and decide for ourselves and our families what we eat. Moderation is the key to healthy eating. So have that big slice of devil's food cake with the scoop of ice cream, if that's your demon, but just don't do it everyday.
I have a friend who lost over 80 pounds by exercising and eating healthy...6 days a week. Every Saturday all bets were off...lol!!

spareparts
  • 17th Mar 2012 01:24pm

I try not to eat very much sugar, always by sugar free lollies, don't eat cakes etc, however I would like the Government to impose a sugar tax, I think it is used excessively in most foods, it should be stubstituted with Stevia, which is a natural plant product, I use this in cooking to make sauces etc, works wonderfully well, and helps with weight loss.

boppa99
  • 17th Mar 2012 01:03pm

I Don"t have Sugar in Coffee,As I find it takes the Taste Away,And I hate Most Times I order a Coffee,They allways me,Would like Sugar,I could Do without That Question.
I also Don"t have Sugar on Cerals.
Otherwise,I love my Sweet things,Soft Drinks ,Ice cream,Things Mostley With Sugar in Them already .
Education probley is Needed For Audlts,Not so Most Children,As There Mostley involved with Sports At School,
But when we Leave School in the End,
Excise becomes Harder!!!!!,In the Long Term!

wazza1965
  • 17th Mar 2012 01:03pm

I have a friend who recently started a sugar free diet. In a couple of weeks he has already lost weight and feels better. He says its not easy because so much of our food has sugar in it, and once or twice he has given in to temptation. I don't think I could do it I LOVE sweets

seranita
  • 17th Mar 2012 12:59pm

When I had a candida problem I was taken off all sugar, This was very difficult as nearly all food that has been manufactured in any way has SUGAR and usually a high percentage.Following this change of eliminating sugar, I found all veggies tasted entirely different and most tasted a natural sweet taste. I found I could appreciate my food much more.In later years I have relaxed that and love dark chocolate for e.g. However I have a blocked tear duct, and flushing it did not work.I find if I overindulge in sugar, e.g. cakes, biscuits chocolate, my eye "tear" streams down my face all day.My granddaughter asked me one day if I was upset with her as she could see the wet down my face!!
I do not have a weight problem, never have had, so that does not effect me."Sweet Addin" is a bi-product of wine making and was recommended to me at one stage as safe and natural substitute..I say beware of many substitutes which are nasty chemicals.
I am appalled to see so many children and young folk while out shopping eating sweet sticky foods, and drinking so many sugar added drinks.

matua
  • 17th Mar 2012 12:58pm

Yes something needs to be done especially when you see carbonate drinks at a third of the cost of milk of the same volumn (which is also toxic to me) that is recognised as being healthy. Even fruit drinks are advertised as pure no sugar added. This is a lie and as I would have not put on weight drinking it if there were no added sugars. Why because when I eat two or three oranges a day I do not put on more weight. Obesity is on the rise. Yes do something because todays kids do not listen and go for sugar only foods. I think of the weight later in life and the state of their teeth.

sneakierbiscuit
  • 17th Mar 2012 12:43pm

Sugar isn't "hidden" in processed foods. Doesn't anybody read the label? I read the labels, and it will clearly state whether sugar, honey, sucrose, fructose, glucose, corn syrup, high fructose corn syrup, etc. is an ingredient. You can get an idea of how much might be in the product by noting its position in the ingredients list (since ingredients are listed from the most to the least). You can also read the nutrition information label, which will clearly list the amount of sugars.

How hard is that? We don't need government intervention aside from labelling laws. Geez. High fructose corn syrup has been shown to be processed differently in the body, and has worse health effects than normal syrup. Perhaps some incentive to stop using HFCS...

A tax on sugar is a ridiculous idea. People are biologically attracted to sugar, so much so that extra cost isn't going to make a huge difference in consumption. And it's not the government's role to act as health nanny for the nation. Information, sure, if its deemed in the public interest. But taxing items doesn't solve a problem. Just look at cigarettes. If something's that bad, either make it illegal or let it alone. Even heavily taxing items like cigarettes doesn't stop people smoking. It just means the government is profiting from something it deems harmful. That's not nice, even if the money's funnelled into health programs (that may or may not work.)

The best way to make a change is through public pressure. It's a market-driven economy. If enough people want reduced sugar in foods, companies will offer it.

All the same, I'd rather sugar than artificial sweeteners, and just eat in moderation. I'm not a fan of artificial fillers and whatnot in my food. I want real food ingredients.

And no, I don't think people need to be "educated" about the dangers of excess sugar intake, at least not in the schooling system. Any sensible person knows that eating lots of sugary foods is bad for your teeth, your weight, and general health. It's something that should be addressed by your physician at check-ups. The information isn't hard to come by. Health websites have the info right there.

Sue
  • 17th Mar 2012 12:43pm

No, I don't think there sould be a tax on sugar, I think it is up to the individual to read the labels on products before buying and then they can take responsibility for themselves.

mell
  • 17th Mar 2012 12:32pm

sugar keeps surprizing me with new ways to do harm to your body. i always say if 1 person can have a bad reaction it might not be as good we think for us. lots of people get diabetes and thats not the people with something wrong its the sugar and those people should be a warning to us sugar dosnt mix in our bodies. sugar makes kids jump from wall to wall that proves we dont need that much energy and there are other ways to get it. they should make it more clear what your buying and what it does. they like to trick you by putting the least ingredient on the cover of the product so you think its got lots of it but when you turn it over youll see it barely even contains that ingredient. if sugars in the first 5 ingredients avoid it.

Anonymous
  • 17th Mar 2012 12:20pm

Also just thinking if the nutritional panel is not on the packet or does not give or warn of the excess surgar content why buy that packaged product?

Anonymous
  • 17th Mar 2012 12:14pm

Between natuaral sugars in fruits and vegetables and all the processing out there that puts sugars into these foods do you really think that it is necessary? We don't need another tax! We have taxes on smokes, they tried putting one on alchol, (to prevent binge drinking), The goverment has even tried putting a tax on fast food and takeaway food at one point if I remember correctly, why do we need another tax do we? I should bluddy well hope not!

sonb4
  • 17th Mar 2012 11:43am

I don't think it's a Government tax issue, getting them involved would just mean another price increase for the consumer. Added sugar is the same as salt and is in pretty much everything. The nutritional coding on products specifies the various contents so ultimately the responsibility is up to the consumer to make purchases relevant to their needs. A novel idea for producers which would be handy for the consumer is to include the amount of exercise a person would need to undertake in order to counteract the effect of the sugar intake per 100ml/gm after consumption.

Killarney
  • 17th Mar 2012 11:24am

Talk about 'trivialising' a VIP subject and then arguing about whose responsibility it is! Sugar is 'sweet poison' and it's not only kids that it is damaging IT IS EVERYONE - ignore at your own risk.

jatz50
  • 17th Mar 2012 11:23am

If the Govt were to put a tax on sugar we know who is going to pay for that?? US!!. Sugar has always been a part of our lives and it is up to the individual how they handle it all. I don't want the Govt telling me what I can and can't eat now. I cut out putting sugar in my coffee and tea a few years ago now.

Years ago in my teens I was able to eat anything and didn't put on any weight. It is when you hit your 40s, believe me things change if you don't watch your sugar/fat intake. I am not overweight, am the right weight for my height but I have Diabetes type 2. Am only controlling it with just diet and I don't scimp out on eating chocolate or sweet things. Everything just has to be in moderation.

I can't stand to use sweeteners because they don't agree with me plus they are bad for you. It is only recently that a new product has come onto the market and I found out about it in a diabetes magazine.
It's called Natvia, is a 100% natural sweetener. There is only 0.6 calories per serve in the sachet whereas a teaspoon of usual sugar is 16 calories. Low G.Is. Low Carbs and nothing artificial. No nasties like Aspartame, no Saccharin, no Sucralose plus Fructose free.
I used to put honey on my cereal but found it more fattening so now use just one sachet of Natvia....is great.

Yankeedoodle
  • 17th Mar 2012 11:16am

Hi Rainbow,

All foods produce a certain amount of sugar and some more than others so if you add to it your intake will be considerably more. I don't eat sweets as I grew up with my mother and grandmother always making home made cakes, pies, cookies etc. for thier cafe and I actually got sick of eating them. When I left home at 18 and went into the military I stopped eating them altogether. I do indulge in liqorice from time to time but that is it. I weigh the same amount today as I did when I finished my basic training in the military and put it down to eating very little sugar. I cook for a hobby and very rarely do I add sugar to any of my dishes. Salt is another ingredient that people should be aware of the danger of adding to much as like sugar most foods produce thier own salt and there again some more than others so be careful when adding salt to the food you are cooking. As for processed foods like everything else eat them in moderation as they are full of both salt and surgar depending on what they are. Another one that is prevelant in bacon, ham etc. is a perservative called Nitrite.

Have a great day

annie
  • 17th Mar 2012 11:03am

My family is a big sugar eating family.We love our chocolates and lollies.I have tried to cut down on buying lollies and chocolates when I go shopping but other family members buy them.When going for a coffee while out shopping I usually substitute real sugar for an artificial sweetener

dreamwalker
  • 17th Mar 2012 11:00am

Government should DEFINATLY NOT have a say. yes it is up to us to watch ourintake. but no sugar is as bad as too much

pxdave
  • 17th Mar 2012 10:45am

totally agree that sugar in food is an issue, I find a oure fresh squeezed fruit juice is a great substitute when craving.

ump
  • 17th Mar 2012 10:36am

Even though I am, slightly, overweight could not do without sugar in my tea or coffee!!!

Wish I had some other method of losing weight.

Ump

PIKEY
  • 17th Mar 2012 10:19am

Hi Trudy, I went cold turkey. Its not easy, but one day a week i let myself have something as a treat. Otherwise you would just go mad and pick out on junk.And yes i do think that the government should play a part in prohibiting the amount of sugar in food. I think we would all be surprised at how much hidden sugar their really is.

sandy
  • 17th Mar 2012 10:03am

Surely we are all responsible for ourselves. We all know what is good and bad for us, and we are the only ones who can be responsible for what we put in our mouths. Sugar is not the only baddie - what about salt? Some people just drench their food in salt! We just need to remember everything in moderation - even moderation!

merlin2
  • 17th Mar 2012 10:02am

The Government should play a part in prohibiting the amount of all 'hidden' additives in processed foods, not just sugar.

Anonymous
  • 17th Mar 2012 09:57am

I don't think the government needs to impose sugar bans etc. it is up to the individual. Generations befor eus have survived, are still surviving despite eating sugar in small or large quantities.

techmark
  • 17th Mar 2012 09:45am

I cut out sugra in tea, coffee and avoid cereals high in the stuff as well, have the odd treat but generally avoid cakes etc and dont use the sugar subsitutes either.
Children are soaked in the stuff these days by food companies and there should be restrictions on how much sugar is in food.

sweetsunshine
  • 17th Mar 2012 09:13am

sugar cane is a natural substance and we were meant to eat it, our brains need a certain amount of glucose to function properly.
However I agree that we should be able to control our intake better. I am all for better labeling for the "hidden sugars". Many low fat products are laced with extra sugar for taste.
As a diabetic it is VERY frustrating having to check whether foods like bread etc have got added sugar! I expect it to be in cake and biscuits, so I limit my intake, but added sugar to meal bases etc is very annoying! Don't get me wrong - diabetics need sugar too - we have the same brain after all - LOL!
As for all you healthy people out there - I'm happy for you, but spare a thought for those of us who aren't - where too many "hidden sugars" over the course of the days can mean coma or death!!
To combat all the energy intake via too much sugar for healthy people, just get more active and you'll burn it off. Cheers....

Anonymous
  • 17th Mar 2012 08:56am

We don't want to pay more taxes. It is a matter of choice. I am a diabetic and so sugar is a no for me. I also have a sweet tooth so I choose to use a sugar substitute in moderation. Most things with a sugar substitute are more expensive sadly so it is a matter of being very careful. Check the labels on all products when you are looking to buy.

Leslie
  • 17th Mar 2012 08:45am

Yes, I am the same, very lucky I guess but I must admit I try not to overdo it!

melz83
  • 17th Mar 2012 08:32am

ABSOLUTELY!!
I am very aware of the refined sugars in my foods and let me tell you that this nasty little "drug" is in pretty much everything we consume these days!In excess!
I think the Government should at least step up and make producers of all foods have clear and easy to read labels and most importantly G.I ratings on the front of all foods! Especially that seemingly innocent looking piece of bread or jar of jam!
Im not saying sugar is completely out of the question and we know what we are doing when we reach for the Tim Tams but lets just keep things honest so as consumers we can make clear choices and maybe stop blaming others for what we decided to put in our mouths!

jacs
  • 17th Mar 2012 08:12am

providing labeling is correct people should take responsibility for their own eating habits

Lee
  • 17th Mar 2012 07:56am

I think it's a shame that the foods with large amounts of sugar are often cheaper than the foods that are good for us. In the end it's up to us to educate our children in which foods are best.

Lee
  • 17th Mar 2012 07:53am

Ebunke
  • 17th Mar 2012 07:39am

more education needed

missjanew
  • 17th Mar 2012 07:37am

I read David Gillespies excellent book- 'Sweet Poison' it was so logical I quit sugar over a year ago. It is liberating to enjoy healthy full-fat food, to feel full and to not gain weight!
The book explains everything in detail- he writes beautifully- well worth a look!
This lifestyle is so liberating- it feels so right! Cheese is my new chocolate :) Dextrose is fine and replaces sugar in my cooking- it's certainly a liveable lifestyle. The bandwagon is growing people, get on it!

Shortstuff
  • 17th Mar 2012 07:31am

I don't take sugar in coffee or tea, guess it's because I love cakes, chocolate and lollies etc. Yes, for my body's sake, impose the tax etc, but I only eat home made cakes and pavlovas etc.

Rosita
  • 17th Mar 2012 06:57am

I agree that sugar intake is way too much and more education of the dangers of excess sugar would be very welcome.. as a recently diagnosed Diabetic I am so much more aware of sugar intake and it is unbelievable just how much sugar is in fruit , drinks, and carbohydrates, i.e. bread, potato's etc.

Gnome
  • 17th Mar 2012 06:41am

I am a diabetic so I have to severely limit my sugar intake so I use sugramax 2 as a substitute, it works well

Phill

Anonymous
  • 17th Mar 2012 06:38am

I don't tend to do too much sugar these days hmmm wonder why? Metabolism slows as we get older. I don't think the Government should be responsible crumbs we complain and grumble about other things they do we don't want to give them something else do we?!?! There is plenty out there on the dangers of too much sugar so I don't think we need to add to the teachers work load either. Also I don't believe in sugar substitutes as some of them are not always a great improvement.

Mayane
  • 17th Mar 2012 06:07am

Hi, tried really hard to cut sugar out of my live, though I have found that my body actually needs a little bit to function. My best source of sweetness is honey. I think we need to educate people about sugar, how it is treated by the manufacturer into the product we buy off the shelf. I find that the natural sucrose found in fruit is my best source of the type of sugar my body needs to function properly. My husband has type 2 diabetes, so sugar of any kind is restricted in our household.

nelly2
  • 17th Mar 2012 05:57am

Years ago i suffered from bad migrane head aches,i was told to go off sugar and salt,and i used to use a lot of sugar back then ,i have not used any of them again,but i do crave for a chocolate bar every now and then,,i did notice that i lost a lot of weight when i stopped using sugar,and i cant take sugar in my coffee as now it makes me sick ,i think people will still have sugar ,as after all thats the one thing that gives you the sweet taste,i have been amazed to see the amount of sugar in some foods.

Coldan
  • 17th Mar 2012 05:57am

any food in moderation is ok, combine with some excercise and you will be fine,

aka_mara
  • 17th Mar 2012 05:31am

I don't think the government should have to play a part in prohibiting sugar as they already have enough on their plate. And we probably don't need another tax tacked onto something else in this country as well.

I do think however, that educating children when they are young on the risk that excess sugar will make in their adult lives would be helpful though. Kids these days learn all about the risks of sex, alcohol and drugs so why not learn about the risks that excess sugar could cause them?

mouse
  • 17th Mar 2012 04:57am

I agree with Pelican. I used to take sugar in drinks and eat sweet things but have made a conscious effort to avoid it when I can. I dont think imposing a tax is a good idea but I certainly read how much sugar is in any item before I buy it now. I feel a lot healthier and have lost weight and have recently had a friend with cancer who totally stopped any sugar as it was recommended in his alternative treatment. I think children should be educated to eat healthly and not have excess sugar to avoid problems in their future health.

Anonymous
  • 17th Mar 2012 02:33am

Finally a option that the government could take that would have positive benefits. These benefits would be for everyone. Sugar in moderation is fine like anything else. i believe if u have a diet with alot of processed, and sugary food and drink, that you would most definatley be not a healthy and fit versus a person that eats and drinks well. children dont realise the damage that comes with consuming sugary foods their teeth discolor and often have holes. their energy levels are lower because there bodies are working overtime.

castiger
  • 17th Mar 2012 12:46am

I think the Government should butt the hell out of our lives quite frankly! They want more & more control over every facet of Australian's lives - you only have to REALLY look at the amount & content of those ever-present "Community Notices/Announcements/Advisories". I'm beginning to wonder exactly which country we are living in! And as for imposing a tax on sugar - are you kidding me? Haven't the government imposed enough new taxes & levies on us since the so-called "tax to end all taxes - the GST" (their words for it not mine!) was imposed?

michb
  • 17th Mar 2012 12:43am

For heaven's sake! Why must we parents always pass the buck onto someone else eg the Government or teachers to educate our children about something as basic as healthy eating.
If you eat something overly sweet or indulge then later balance that with a healthy meal or smaller servings. Easy.

Hilary
  • 17th Mar 2012 12:21am

I don't think there should be a tax on sugar and processed foods.
Education about healthy eating from an early age which could include growing fruit and veges ( and you don't necessarily need a large space) and teaching kids how to cook a proper meal from scratch not just heat up something in the microwave.

I think sugar in processed food should be decreased.(So should salt) Cereal and muesli bars are promoted as healthy but most have heaps of sugar. I think they add sugar and salt so we want more and so spend more money.

Many people drink too much fizzy drinks that have a load of sugar. I don't care for them that much but sometimes I want something fizzy so I have soda water which has the fizz but not the sugar.
When I was younger I loved to drink diet coke and eat blocks of chocolate. Now I have less teeth and have had many fillings.

Years ago I cut out sugar in coffee and tea. I'd have 3 heaped teaspoons.I went cold turkey. Only bad habit I've been able to cut out . Every now and then I get a craving for a sweet cup of tea so I have one with either sugar or honey. Once I've drank a cup or two I don't want any more.

Chocolate is different. There is never any chocolate in the house because I eat it and not slowly .. fast! People keep on mentioning Tim Tams and there's no chocolate here!

Kitty999
  • 16th Mar 2012 11:55pm

I don't think there sould be a tax on sugar. I think the labelling on food should be better, more control on misleading advertising and more education on the dangers of sugar.
I really get annoyed with the over use of things like 99% fat free. Take for example the ads for The Natural Confection Company ads saying the jellies are 99% fat free. I wouldn't expect there to be any fat in these. They are basically only glucose, flavouring, colouring and gelatine - i.e high in sugar - low in fat.

Quite often low fat products have more sugar and nearly as many calories as regular products. People confuse low fat with fewer calories. This is not necessarily the case.

mysteron347
  • 16th Mar 2012 11:54pm

Hooley dooley!

Can you imagine what a mess the politicians could make if they were to have a special department of sugar suppression? Look at the dog's breakfast they've created with product-labelling as it stands. Where does "local and imported" come from? Who has time to read every ingredients panel - and has the government issued magnifying glasses to read the things? Never mind running an education campaign with certificates and exams and subsidies and all.

Then we have ingredients lists that little old ladies selling home-made jam at church fêtes feel obliged to mimic. Warnings on peanut bars that "might" (according to the warning) contain peanuts. Star ratings for something or other, and GI ratings and what in the name of all that's holy is a "serve?" Oh - add on the "93.784% fat-free" and "low" calorie/joule/fat/contents warnings.

Geez - we'd land up with sugar-muncher certificates, sugar-withdrawal clinics, officialdom enforcing glucose and fructose limits with greater zest than hand-held-watering-ose limits. There'd be international conferences and agreements to work out, and treaties and the UN would get involved - and then we'd have to compensate our own sugar farmers and those overseas who would lose their means of support.

And the advertisements. The never-ending advertisements advising you over and over and over every five minutes - like the alcohol, speeding, electricity, water and everything else that the government has voted to have its nasty little grasping paws on.

Oh, and a tax. Of course a tax. And permits. Dead certain.

CAT17
  • 17th Mar 2012 11:39pm
Hooley dooley!

Can you imagine what a mess the politicians could make if they were to have a special department of sugar suppression? Look at the dog's breakfast they've created with...

Hi mysteron347 thanks for your very entertaining comment. I can just see Julia having a press conference to announce the very latest expert advice on sugar and that there will be a web site you can rely on to ensure you have or not have sugar in your diet!!!! Do you think Kevin would be good for the sugar seat at the UN! Oh so sweet?

mika08
  • 16th Mar 2012 11:44pm

I seem to worry about my fat intake than sugar intake. I guess I've seen some older family members live to a good age even with that teaspoon of sugar in their tea. Sugar is natural occuring in many foods ie fruit so would be difficult to completely eliminate from our diet. The media is in a frenzy a the moment about the dangers of sugar but just wait and see ... later in the year it will be in a frenzy about the danger of artifical sweetners and their cancer causing effects. Everything in moderation I say, even sugar has a place in a healthy persons diet. I have dramatically increased my exercise this year and have noticed dramatic changes in how I feel. Health is not just all diet related.

godsbaby
  • 16th Mar 2012 11:18pm

I hate to b the one to bring this up but the sugar is not as bad as the salt..Yes, the salt that is in your food ( and it is in all your foods, except fresh), is twice as bad for you.. Even chocolate has heaps of salt in it.. Read your lables before you buy and reduce the salt, you lose weight, not retain water, need less sugar, also enjoy the taste of foods again..

MTD
  • 16th Mar 2012 11:15pm

Hi, I am 69, have had bypass surgery, was told I have diabetes, and been put on several drugs. I think my diet had some influence in creating these issues, however, the biggest cause was stress. I have cut out most sugar, do not have enough excersize (because walking is very boring), reduced my fat intake and had to increase the medication for my diabetes. Too much sugar sure has a long term effect causing all sorts of problems. I think we are becoming immune to all the advise we are being given and are choosing to ignore a lot of it. Do you cut out many things you enjoy and live a little longer, or do you enjoy what you want to do and shorten your life? That is a big question to ask yourself. Can government help? I don't know, in my heart I know what they say we should do is essentially, (not all of it) , true, but the problem is, who believes the Government's agenda is for the good of the population? With all the issues with the Government's credebility, I would certainly question their information, even if it may hurt me by not following their advice.

pkn55
  • 16th Mar 2012 11:13pm

Doctors esp. like to blame everything but themselves for the growing seveity of sickness/disease in society. When people wake up to the fact that doctors are poisoning them and they turn to real health, the doctors will be out of a job!

There's nothing wrong with sugar in moderation - it's use of artificial sweeteners like aspartame etc. that should really be ringing alarm bells.

As for cutting out sugar. Not a chance. I don't get nearly enough calories as it is! :)

June
  • 16th Mar 2012 11:11pm

Quite a few years ago I did a sugar free diet and I have to admit I lost a great deal of weight in a very short time. I think one of the main problems for people is the amount of soft drink such as coca cola being drunk. I see lots of people of all ages drinking it constantly and even with every meal. These soft drinks are full of sugar. I also think it's not the responsibility of the government and that we should take responsibility for ourselves. Many people today want to blame somebody else for their problems even going as far as sueing companies. My weakness, I'm sorry to say is not sugar but cheese and I just love it always have but it's up to me to control it after all is said and done.

funny72
  • 16th Mar 2012 11:09pm

people wiil eat it regardless

funny72
  • 16th Mar 2012 11:09pm

really if people are going to eat it they will regardless

Nefertari
  • 16th Mar 2012 11:06pm

I think that if our sugar intake had been limited right from when we were very young by restrictions implemented by the government AND education on the dangers of excess sugar given by parents then todays population would be a lot better off. Most of us can eat virtually what we want when we're younger but as we get older we have to watch just what we eat and how much of it we eat. I have cut down on the amount of sugar I eat but have not noticed much of a difference as that sweet craving is still there and I usually give in to it by eating chocolates and sweet biscuits....so I think educating children from an early age not to eat too much sugar will naturally stop them from wanting sweet biscuits, chocolates etc. and that in turn will lead to a healthier life

PAULIE
  • 16th Mar 2012 11:06pm

1st there should be a limit on the amount of sugar in processed foods. As a kid I use to sprinkle sugar over the cereal in the morning until I grew up and realised it has it in most cereals anyway. Plus I stopped using sugar in tea or coffee even though I used to use only 1 teaspoon. It doesn't take long to get used the taste of tea or coffee without sugar. You don't miss it after a while. If you want a sweetener in place of sugar use something natural such as honey instead of manufactured sweeteners which are bound to include chemicals harmful to ones health.

Hartmut
  • 16th Mar 2012 11:03pm

I think the public needs to know how much sugar is in any item they buy; then they can make up their own minds whether they want to buy it or not.
Taxing everything we, or some, don't like is not the answer.
Information to give us free choice is.

katmeow
  • 16th Mar 2012 10:51pm

A tax on sugar is just a cop out. There needs to be regulations on what can be put into food, sugar is bad but what about all the other unidentifiable ingredients added to food? As far as cutting out sugar, less processed foods means less sugar, just go for fresh fruit and veg, more wholegrains. I care about sugar intake for myself and my family. Go Jamie Oliver, bring on the revolution!

rinso8
  • 16th Mar 2012 10:47pm

I definitely think people need to be better educated on the dangers of excess sugar intake. Some people think eating lollies won't cause weight gain because they're "99.9% fat free", then there are people who think that because they eat as much sugar as they like and aren't fat then they're ok. These people need to be aware of the dangers of diabetes and other diseases that can be a direct or indirect result of over-consumption of sugar.
I admit that, having a fast metabolism, good genes, whatever you want to call it, I can pretty much eat what I like without gaining weight. Having said that, I am very aware of the health risks of doing so and tend to eat mostly "healthy" with the odd blow-out every now and then.

muckmum
  • 16th Mar 2012 10:30pm

well I guess it is best to give a second thought now that I am more informed about my sugar choices. I don't add sugar to my tea or coffe but I do love a biscuit slice of cake or sticky bun. From now on I will try at least a little bit more .

flyingace
  • 16th Mar 2012 10:17pm

hi Rainbow, no I don't think so and their is alway tax on sugar and I don't think the government would tax it anyway.

ab
  • 16th Mar 2012 10:15pm

Nice try Trudy, but it wont last...you will return to your dark master ;)

I love tim tams, they're 'awesome', and that word is not a major part of my vernacular, so I don't use it lightly. Tim Tams are the perfect subsitute, for a 'bit of the other'. And like 'the other', you mustn't rush into your tim tams...take it slow and really enjoy the moment.You'll get much more pleasure and may not eat as much of it in one sitting...good luck with that.

Alternatively, do as I do and train five days a week. It's win/win! :)

Anonymous
  • 16th Mar 2012 09:50pm

Being a nutrition student, I definately believe that the government do their best to eliminate sugar in processed food, not to mention saturated fat and sodium. The human body consumes enough sugar as it is, we do not need to obtain any extra. Our sugar intake should come from natural sources such as honey, and fruit. Neverthelss, there should be an overall decrease in the intake of sugar, looking at the prevalence of obesity and diabetes rate in New Zealand.

Mersie
  • 16th Mar 2012 09:44pm

I done the no sugar thing a while back. I bought the book Sweet Poison and got right into it, it recommended using Dextrose instead of sugar, but I found it very hard to buy, and when I did manage to get some it was very bland.
The good part though was that after a few days I lost all my cravings for sweet things, and it didn't even worry me when someone ate chocolate in front of me. I don't remember why I stopped. The book recommended that you only have 10 grams of sugar daily, but there is so much sugar in everything, it's in milk, bread and all the staples that you eat every day, and you eat them without even thinking about what is in them.
At least this got me reading labels and realising what I was really eating.
I still avoid sugar, but am not religiously avoiding it all together, I have for instance the diet yogurt, instead of the other variety and I really like rye bread which has the least sugar, the only trouble is the book recommends eating butter and I just love the taste of butter, so found I was cutting down on sugar but beafing up on fats, which I know is no good for you, so you really have to watch that.
I didn't lose any weight, but maybe I wasn't trying hard enough, I think I liked that butter too much.

Anonymous
  • 16th Mar 2012 09:24pm

If the gov. steps in on sugar additives, will they step in on ALL additives? They'll probably kill you faster! I read the back of packets and actually COOK. Fresh is better. Stay away from over processed and pre-made foods. If they have to add a chemical to make it taste palatable then I won't eat it.

Carshark
  • 16th Mar 2012 09:23pm

many years ago , when we were expecting our first child my wife was ordered not to use sugar because of her toxemia and her weight increase. So, no morer sugar was available in the cupboards. It was that easy , coffee tasted better, alternatives such as honey on the porridge. 50 years on we have sugar for visitors, but we never add it to anything in our diet.I kilo of sugar would last us more than 20 years.however the inclusion of sugar in our foods is more than enough to have concern, it is not as needful as many think.

sheddweller
  • 16th Mar 2012 09:20pm

It's all a matter of training your taste-buds.
I stopped adding sugar, and eating many pre-packaged or processed foods (except for beer and wine) 40 years ago, and have maintained a BMI of 24 since the initial weight loss of 20 kg (97 to 77). [I also quit smoking 5 years earlier.]
Sugar makes great ethanol: I can't think of another reason to produce it.
We definitely do not need another tax!

Kezza
  • 16th Mar 2012 09:17pm

All things in moderation I reckon. If the Govt were to tax sugar no one would be eating because they would tax it for naturally occurring in foods as well as being added to processed foods. People should use commonsense and take responsibilty for themselves!

Anonymous
  • 16th Mar 2012 09:15pm

Moderation with everything (including sugar) seems to be the best approach for health because as sure as you cotton on to some especially healthy food program, a study will appear which supports how bad it is for you. Also, we all need a little treat - like a tim tam after dinner.

Thunderful
  • 16th Mar 2012 09:13pm

i for one, have my own Tim Tam jar, which is never empty - I stock up on double coated and caramel Tim tams whenever they are on special, and i always have a couple of packets in reserve. Having said that, it stays in my room, as other household members are not as lucky with their weight as i am, and I really only eat on average, one every day or so.

I love to have something a little sweet, but i know Tim Tams are sweet - I am a little more concerned with what has 'hidden' sugar, or foods that i would not have expected to have much sugar in them, but I'm not overly concerned.

Overall, If i am concerned, or suspect a processed food might have a lot of sugar, i will check the nutrition guide, otherwise, i don't really mind. I think a tax on sugar might be a little overkill.

Rachel
  • 16th Mar 2012 09:11pm

I do care, but I don't! I love food with sugar my house is full of it. I know I should get rid of it all for the benefit of my health and waistline but I can neither bring myself to part with the cost or the sugar!
If I "chuck" it I lose money and weight! If I don't I'll munch on in ignorant bliss!

Catlover13
  • 16th Mar 2012 09:07pm

I recently watched Sunday night and it was about sugar, just how bad it is. It turns into fat by the liver...I didnt know that! This guy cut sugar out of his diet completely and the weight started to fall off. I have cut down on my sugar in my daily cups of coffee from three teaspoons down to one alittle heaped now. Gradually, any extra and I taste the difference....its yuck and dont taste like coffee but a sugar drink! Anyhow, I think that yes, it should be taught in schools how bad it is...an addiction. Just because something says no added sugar on the label does not mean it doesnt contain any.....read carefully. I hate saccarin and the rest of the sugar replacements , thinking that they too could be even more harmful. Best to just cut down on it.

delilah
  • 16th Mar 2012 08:58pm

No. The government doesn't need to tell us there is sugar in sweet foods. By now we should all know junk food is junk. Fresh fruit and veg is the way to go. Why should anyone have to remind us to take care of ourselves.
Oh by the way there's nothing wrong with a tonne of crackers and goats cheese late at night is there? :)

Nita
  • 16th Mar 2012 08:57pm

I personally think it would be a great idea if the Government brought in some kind of legislation to control how much sugar is added to processed foods. I'm sure half of the sugar injected into these products are completely useless and not needed, but are put in as sugar is addictive and if our brain tells us we love something, we're going to eat it again.
Look.....I love my chocky and I believe that we should eat everything in moderation but I do think that companies add sugar for no real purpose and need to start looking at the ramifications of what they do.

Jess
  • 16th Mar 2012 08:51pm

There should be alot more education for the public, provided by the government about the dangers of excess sugar intake and yes they should plat a part in prohibiting the amount of hidden sugars in processed foods.. we are in the middle of an obestity epidemic, something must be done.

jjdrer
  • 16th Mar 2012 08:51pm

I was shocked to find that I have insulin resistance. My Blood sugar levels were within normal range but - wait for it- my insulin levels were 4 X normal range. Over the previous 2 years or so I had gained weight, felt tired during the afternoon, went to bed at a reasonable time and wasn't a big junk food eater. My cholestoral levels were very high despite being on a low fat diet and medication.
Initially I was banned from grain, dairy and food containing ALL types of sugar except a piece of fruit with low sugar content, also some foods high in carbohydrates. MY blood test results didn't really show any improvement, so I asked for a 2nd opinion from another dietician. I am now allowed wholegrain oats with a medium size piece of fruit with skim milk OR wholegrain toast. Wholegrain are good carbohydrates which stop quick rushes of energy and long periods of tiredness and don't cause insulin levels to spike. Quantiites have to be measured to achieve this. Carbohydrates convert to sugar in your bloodstream. This can lead to Diabetes, Heart Attack or Stroke. Foods which contain protein, combined with good carbs satisify your hunger. Some artificial sweeteners can cause drastic side affects. Aspartane, used in diet cola can cause Cancer of the Kidney. I personally know one girl who suffered this fate and now only has one kidney. The specialist "straight out" asked her if she drank diet cola and called it black death. She is now unable to drink any carbonated drinks at all. She only ever had one can a day, mainly in the warm weather. A Friend of hers developed Diabetes Type 2 and started drinking it but more for a few months The same thing happened and he also had to have a kidney removed.
I have heard that Stevia may be the best option - it is made from a plant and has been used overseas by inhabitants who lived off the land. I personally have not tried it yet.
I was told the more sweet or high carb. food you eat the more you want. I proved this to be true.
If you "search" on google you can find lists of carbohydrates and sugar in fruit and vegetables, also fat.

Jess
  • 16th Mar 2012 08:50pm

There should be alot more education for the public, provided by the government about the dangers of excess sugar intake and yes they should plat a part in prohibiting the amount of hidden sugars in processed foods.. we are in the middle of an obestity epidemic, something must be done.

kezmag
  • 16th Mar 2012 08:41pm

Oh golly gosh. When is the human race going to take some responsibilty for there actions. If you are so concerned about your body you will get out there and educate yourself about good and bad things to eat. Why should the government intervene. If it is not good for you, have some willpower and dont eat it.
boof

mismoo
  • 16th Mar 2012 08:37pm

I think the whole sugar thing is a storm in a teacup. Something someone has a gripe about and nothing better to do. We all know too much of any one thing is bad for you and that goes for sugar too. I myself tend to use artificial sweetners like equal but I don't go out of my way to avoid sugar altogether. Come on we only have life on this planet once so let's enjoy it while we can in moderation of course.

mtnej
  • 16th Mar 2012 08:20pm

i think it would be very cruel to impose a tax, as folk like me,if we dont have real sugar,can die if we even touch anything with a sweetner in it,so why should we
be punished for something we have no control over, that would be so unjust

mtnej

Dot
  • 16th Mar 2012 08:19pm

I think we all should take more responsibility for our own eating habits. We don't need to rely on the government for everything we do. My old mum used to use expressions like "if you don't use it, you lose it" and 'everything in moderation'. And, (I need to do this more often) carefully read the labels on food products. Life's too short, enjoy it !

jules 1
  • 16th Mar 2012 08:14pm

without doubt the government should be doing a lot more to help the children of Australia, we need somone like Jamie Oliver over here to make them see, and educate parents as well. Far too much hidden sugar in a kot food!

kreative
  • 16th Mar 2012 08:13pm

I don't think the government needs to tax people more. It won't really make any difference if they do. The GST and other taxes have proved that already. What they need to do, if they are goign to get involved is to work with companies to use natural alternatives instead. I would like to see foods without sugar or natural products like Stevia or Xylitol used rather than artificial sweeteners that are even more toxic to your health than sugar.

I have definitely noticed a difference to my health and weight since cutting out sugar but I noticed an even bigger improvement when I cut out artificial sweeteners used in diet drinks. It was then that I noticed many aches and pains vanished!

Jenny
  • 16th Mar 2012 08:07pm

I think it is up to us parents to check the labels and try to reduce the sugar intake of our families. Apparently, Hermesetes pills are a good sugar alternative.

Anonymous
  • 16th Mar 2012 08:06pm

We are already one of the 'highest taxed' countries in the world. We need to get a backbone and start taking responsibility for our own health and the food we put in our mouths!!!

Poppy.
  • 16th Mar 2012 07:59pm

I believe that we should be made aware of the dangers of sugar and products with sugar added. I suffer from Type 2 Diabetes and have done so for a couple of years. I now use Equal as a sugar substitute. I also try to avoid using sugar as much as possible. So in essence I must watch what I eat and limit the amount of Carbs as well because these are turned into sugar. My body isn't producing enough insulin. So sugar is a real no no for me.

Pelican
  • 16th Mar 2012 07:59pm

Yes legislation limiting sugar is a good idea. we'd have to get used to a change in flavour though, but eventually you don't notice the difference

Anonymous
  • 16th Mar 2012 07:59pm

I take responsibility for myself and what I buy to put in my mouth. I can read the 'breakdown' on the packets. I would rather the government looked after the country and let us be responsible adults.

Paulie
  • 16th Mar 2012 09:24pm
Hooley dooley!

Can you imagine what a mess the politicians could make if they were to have a special department of sugar suppression? Look at the dog's breakfast they've created with...

Used to use Tim Tams as a straw, thru' which to drink my hot chocolate. You can get away with this stuff until you're around 40, Paul. At 65, it's a once-a-year treat!~ :)

mismoo
  • 16th Mar 2012 08:46pm
Hooley dooley!

Can you imagine what a mess the politicians could make if they were to have a special department of sugar suppression? Look at the dog's breakfast they've created with...

I'm with you Suzi all the way

Pelican
  • 16th Mar 2012 07:57pm

used to take 2 spoons of sugar in tea and coffee but as I have 11 cups a day decided to reduce sugar, now take none. Tea and coffee taste better, especially tea. I too could once eat anything without gaining weight but as middle age passes that no longer applies

cazmaz
  • 16th Mar 2012 08:24pm
used to take 2 spoons of sugar in tea and coffee but as I have 11 cups a day decided to reduce sugar, now take none. Tea and coffee taste better, especially tea. I too could once eat anything...

I know the feeling about the weight gain in middle age ! I haven't had sugar in tea or coffee for 30 years but still have a sweet tooth,carrots and celery sticks just don't taste the same.Seriously though I think it is upto the parents to cut the sugar out of their childrens diet,it's not rocket science all they have to do is say "No" and mean it.

Amensch
  • 16th Mar 2012 07:56pm

I don;t think the Government should get involved over sugar in processed foods.
Speaking as a type 1 diabetic , I do need to have sugar in the food otherwise i do hypo.Of course I do carry with me my insulane as well as the very sugary jellybeans.
cheers

Catenary
  • 16th Mar 2012 07:56pm

Sugar and education have had a bad collision or two. When I was at school, a comic-book-like publication was given out to all primary school students. Called "The Commonwealth Trades Alphabet" it had a paragraph under "S for Sugar" where your friendly neighborhood grocer was saying "Sugar is the purest food I have in my shop." The Alphabet ran for at least 2 years, spreading this 'so sugar must be good for you' message. Eventually dentists discovered it and protested loudly, but for a whole generation of schoolkids the damage was done.
I now examine food packaging to see just what percentage of sugar is in the product. Because of this, i now give several popular varieties of breakfast cereal a BIG MISS. And by the way, I now have upper and lower dentures and precious few of my own teeth. Be warned!!!

Anonymous
  • 16th Mar 2012 07:54pm

No more taxes please! The Government should perhaps spend more time on educating people to the dangers of excess sugar in their diet. I chose to use a sugar supplement in my tea and coffee instead of white sugar, and I lost 4kgs within a few weeks. A simple step, but it has certainly helped.

jonask
  • 16th Mar 2012 07:46pm

yes the govt should play a part and 1 way to cut sugar use is to tax it more, because manufacturers wont

Bigfoot
  • 16th Mar 2012 08:10pm
used to take 2 spoons of sugar in tea and coffee but as I have 11 cups a day decided to reduce sugar, now take none. Tea and coffee taste better, especially tea. I too could once eat anything...

You're dead right Suzi, Too many parents want the schools or government to do parents job. I say stop being so darn lazy parents and get on with you parenting properly. I have been a type 2 Diabetic for 13 years now, I never thought that I could give up sugar but now I always use a fake sugar tablet in my tea or coffee (And I drink plenty of both every day) a particular brand of fake sugar tablet doesn't suit everyone, I find Sugarella is for me but parents should definitely cut down on bread and fast foods.

Anonymous
  • 16th Mar 2012 08:02pm
yes the govt should play a part and 1 way to cut sugar use is to tax it more, because manufacturers wont

Do we really want a 'you make the decisions for me, cos I can't be bothered' government. Where would it end?

ellie78
  • 16th Mar 2012 07:46pm

I decided that 2012 was my year to get my 20's body back, after producing 4 beautiful children, the eldest now being 13, I feel the need to get back to fitness, health and to feel better about myself.
I have cut out ALL sugar, now only eat fresh fruit and vegetables, green tea or chamomile, no coffee or soft drinks or processed juices.
So far I have lost just over 10kg and still have a few to go to get to my goal weight, my clothes are already beyond loose and I can even take some pants off and on without even undoing them (couldn't even get them on at the beginning of the year!)
To be honest I don't think there is a need for sugar, of course I go through stages where I crave some chocolate or cake, or biscuits, but I guess that's because I know what the taste is like. I just look at them and say to myself, would I rather that packet of biscuits, or to fit into that new dress I saw at the shops!
so far it has worked, bring on the rest of 2012!!

ellie78
  • 17th Mar 2012 10:07pm
Good on you! iv been trying to do the same thing, any tips on toning up? Especailly for the tummy

i bought an ab circle pro, do 10 minutes 5 days a week, I reckon it's doing something, although after 4 kids I wouldn't expect to ever get my abs back!

diaooraa
  • 17th Mar 2012 09:33pm
I decided that 2012 was my year to get my 20's body back, after producing 4 beautiful children, the eldest now being 13, I feel the need to get back to fitness, health and to feel better about...

Good on you! iv been trying to do the same thing, any tips on toning up? Especailly for the tummy

ellie78
  • 17th Mar 2012 02:27pm
Wow you rock. I just don't seem to have the "won't power". I can last for a few days and then the cravings just overtake me. Do you eat meat and carbs like rice and bread etc?

a little brown rice, but have started eating quinoa which is even healthier, don't eat bread or meat, a little fish every now and then, more live on the protein from beans and spinach and veggies.

swimwithfi
  • 17th Mar 2012 10:18am
I decided that 2012 was my year to get my 20's body back, after producing 4 beautiful children, the eldest now being 13, I feel the need to get back to fitness, health and to feel better about...

Wow you rock. I just don't seem to have the "won't power". I can last for a few days and then the cravings just overtake me. Do you eat meat and carbs like rice and bread etc?

PGS
  • 16th Mar 2012 07:42pm

Mine's not so much a "don't care" as it is a "Don't care for Tim Tams". Not my favourite bikky, never have been. Some of the recent alternate flavoured ones are OK, but I really am very unwilling to buy them.

Before taxing sugar, the gov't should be looking at ways to make sure the uber-rich actually pay a fair share of tax before the $ are spirited away. Further taxes on foods won't help anyone.

Right through mother's side of the family there is a weight problem - spread pretty well across her mother's family also. Past worrying about it.

I am what I am.

Gwen2620
  • 16th Mar 2012 07:40pm

I cut out sugar and bread and lost 7ks. Sugar is hidden in so many products. Schools need to educate children better and they in turn tell their parents.

magicnYs
  • 21st Mar 2012 12:05am
Parents should most definitely be responsible for the food their kids consume...and its so true...so many parents are either too busy or too lazy to care about what goes into their kids bodies....

aka_mara, so true that parents have to take responsibility. That's half the reason I started Every Parents Dream - Eating Safely with some friends, to try and bring awareness to parents about the food choices they have and how they can make better choices for the health of their children, and themselves. www.EatingSafely.com for more info, or find us on facebook.

Luvmydogs
  • 19th Mar 2012 04:17pm
Parents should most definitely be responsible for the food their kids consume...and its so true...so many parents are either too busy or too lazy to care about what goes into their kids bodies....

We already have those obese kids/obese teens & obese adults. We don't have to wait for it to happen as it is already here! I gave up sugar years ago thanks to an excellent dentist I used to go to but the warnings weren't really out there then about the amount of sugar in prepared foods - if you look at the label & the sugar content is more than 10g per 100g (or 10%) then you know it has too much sugar in it to be consumed on a regular basis.

CTrevena
  • 19th Mar 2012 10:04am
Parents should most definitely be responsible for the food their kids consume...and its so true...so many parents are either too busy or too lazy to care about what goes into their kids bodies....

I have a 4yr old son. He is lactose intolerant.
Buying junk food for him is almost impossible.
I have found that the sugar content is the only other thing I look at on the packets.
It can have anything else but not those. This has also brought my sugar intake down.
My little sister is an obese teen turning into an obese adult. She has been put into a desk job and has to walk home just to get any excersize during the day.
This is also a big problem with too much sugar hidden in food. She has never had to look at a packet before moving out. Now I doubt she would think of it.

Martina
  • 18th Mar 2012 08:06pm
Parents should most definitely be responsible for the food their kids consume...and its so true...so many parents are either too busy or too lazy to care about what goes into their kids bodies....

I'm so please that Jimmy Oliver being in the public eyes took a stand on this sensitive subject as Sugar.Its a pity that some people don't see the danger of it.If we don't take care of our health we will have to pay a big price to regain it .There is enough pressure on our hospital as it is, to add more. sugar does not make people Obese only but they have a big risk of diabetes that is cripple people around the world.Its not fun when your health is affected with that deadly disease I have family members who is living with that diseases they are loosing their sight its a pity to see them suffering, its like going through a slow death do you think is worth it.I rather sacrifice myself than loosing my health or allow my kids to suffer because they love that sweet poison call white sugar.If I was a minster of health I will put a program of re-education to the public cancel all sugary product its better to stop these product than spending million on how to fix the problem......

Anonymous
  • 17th Mar 2012 06:35am
Parents should most definitely be responsible for the food their kids consume...and its so true...so many parents are either too busy or too lazy to care about what goes into their kids bodies....

too true we need to take responsiblity for our own behaviours and actions and teach our children what is healthy it isn't like there isn't plenty of teachings already out there to help and it doesn't have to be expensive either. The buck has to stop somewhere easier isn't always helathier but there are good options out there

aka_mara
  • 17th Mar 2012 05:36am
I agree Suzi, schools have enough to do, responsible parents should know what they purchase and what the products contain...... its not up to Governments or schools it up to us as parents..... a...

Parents should most definitely be responsible for the food their kids consume...and its so true...so many parents are either too busy or too lazy to care about what goes into their kids bodies. It's so sad!

With parents just feeding their kids sugar filled junk food, we are going to end up with obese teens who turn into obese adults that teach their kids how to become obese. Its a never ending cycle.

bigred
  • 16th Mar 2012 08:45pm
I agree Suzi, schools have enough to do, responsible parents should know what they purchase and what the products contain...... its not up to Governments or schools it up to us as parents..... a...

I agree Suzi, schools have enough to do, responsible parents should know what they purchase and what the products contain...... its not up to Governments or schools it up to us as parents..... a lot of parents are to busy to care.....

mismoo
  • 16th Mar 2012 08:43pm
I agree Suzi, schools have enough to do, responsible parents should know what they purchase and what the products contain...... its not up to Governments or schools it up to us as parents..... a...

You're right Suzi, Mums and Dads are the ones who need to control what their children put in their mouths. Teachers should be left to teach the fundamental things like maths and english so that these children grow into well educated adults with enough sense to know what's right and wrong from their parents.

Anonymous
  • 16th Mar 2012 07:57pm
I cut out sugar and bread and lost 7ks. Sugar is hidden in so many products. Schools need to educate children better and they in turn tell their parents.

Sorry Gwen, schools have enough to do in a very crowded curriculum without having to teach about sugar! It is parents who do the supermarket shopping, let them stand up and take responsibility for the food they purchase to feed their families and put in their children lunches.

paulina
  • 16th Mar 2012 07:37pm

If the Government was to put a tax on it we will pay for it ,so you can add that to the growing list of taxes.If you read what is on the packet it will tell you.
I have cut down on my sugar and my weight is going down, I was putting on my breakfast a lot of honey and my weight went up a lot, so I stopped that now.

PaulDW
  • 16th Mar 2012 07:22pm

Hi Trudy,

Sorry to say I "just don't care'. Very lucky with my health and weight and eat anything and everything. Sometimes to excess, especially chocolate - Yum

kathy77
  • 20th Apr 2012 08:28pm
I cut out sugar and bread and lost 7ks. Sugar is hidden in so many products. Schools need to educate children better and they in turn tell their parents.

Hi Suzi,

Yes I agree with you a little of everything is quite ok

KJ
  • 21st Mar 2012 05:24pm
Hi Trudy,

Sorry to say I "just don't care'. Very lucky with my health and weight and eat anything and everything. Sometimes to excess, especially chocolate - Yum

I am the same, I eat what I want, when I want and don't seem to be effected. But I am starting to become a little more causious as I think it might catch up on me!
I do still eat like a horse though and chocolate is one of my favourites, the only problem is the breakouts I get...

PaulDW
  • 18th Mar 2012 02:32pm
That's terrific! hubby grows veggies in the backyard of our suburban rental: even if you don't have a country cottage, one can enjoy yummy greens!
Oh and - of course - a bite of choc to happily...

Sounds perfect Lyl :-)

Lyl
  • 18th Mar 2012 02:30pm
Love my veggies, many home grown - this is making me hungry.

That's terrific! hubby grows veggies in the backyard of our suburban rental: even if you don't have a country cottage, one can enjoy yummy greens!
Oh and - of course - a bite of choc to happily close the day.

PaulDW
  • 18th Mar 2012 09:37am
You still need to eat veg though

Love my veggies, many home grown - this is making me hungry.

diaooraa
  • 17th Mar 2012 09:30pm
Good on you Paul make the most of it while you can. You can always put the brakes on later I reckon.

Not if the damage is already done, changing later on cant undue all the effects

diaooraa
  • 17th Mar 2012 09:28pm
Good on you Paul make the most of it while you can. You can always put the brakes on later I reckon.

Yes i agree with Suzi and plenty of veg and fruit

diaooraa
  • 17th Mar 2012 09:26pm
Hi Trudy,

Sorry to say I "just don't care'. Very lucky with my health and weight and eat anything and everything. Sometimes to excess, especially chocolate - Yum

You still need to eat veg though

PaulDW
  • 17th Mar 2012 07:09pm
Oh yes it is! that if you've been lifting 50Kg sugar bags all day, every day ... ;)

wish I could !

Lyl
  • 17th Mar 2012 11:19am
lol, that's what my dad used to say! - nearly 55 but do have a bad back, must be the sugar intake?

Oh yes it is! that if you've been lifting 50Kg sugar bags all day, every day ... ;)

PaulDW
  • 16th Mar 2012 10:35pm
lol, that's what my dad used to say! - nearly 55 but do have a bad back, must be the sugar intake?

lol, that's what my dad used to say! - nearly 55 but do have a bad back, must be the sugar intake?

Anonymous
  • 16th Mar 2012 09:29pm
Hi Trudy,

Sorry to say I "just don't care'. Very lucky with my health and weight and eat anything and everything. Sometimes to excess, especially chocolate - Yum

Let me guess, your under thirty. I USE to be the same. Things change with age. Only a very small percentage of the population STAY trim and terrific. I now watch what I eat and try to eat healthily. That is until I have a mad sugar craving and then all bets are off!

mismoo
  • 16th Mar 2012 08:39pm
Hi Trudy,

Sorry to say I "just don't care'. Very lucky with my health and weight and eat anything and everything. Sometimes to excess, especially chocolate - Yum

Good on you Paul make the most of it while you can. You can always put the brakes on later I reckon.

Anonymous
  • 16th Mar 2012 08:00pm
Hi Trudy,

Sorry to say I "just don't care'. Very lucky with my health and weight and eat anything and everything. Sometimes to excess, especially chocolate - Yum

We need a variety of foods, a little of all is a pretty good idea.

PaulDW
  • 16th Mar 2012 07:24pm
Hi Trudy,

Sorry to say I "just don't care'. Very lucky with my health and weight and eat anything and everything. Sometimes to excess, especially chocolate - Yum

So pass the Tim Tams, please ???

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