Sweet Foods

Sweet foods and added sugars can be enjoyed occasionally, but contribute mostly energy with little other nutritional value when eaten often or in large amounts.

Common sweet foods

Cakes, biscuits, chocolate, confectionery, pastries and ice cream are all familiar examples, often combining added sugar with saturated fat.

Health influence

Benefit: enjoyed occasionally as part of an otherwise balanced diet, sweet foods aren't inherently harmful, and can support a sustainable, enjoyable relationship with food.

Watch for: diets high in added sugar and energy-dense sweet foods are linked to weight gain, increased risk of type 2 diabetes, dental cavities and unfavourable blood lipid changes. The concern is mainly frequent or large intake, which tends to displace more nutrient-dense foods.

Practical choices

1. Treat sweet foods as an occasional extra rather than a daily habit.
2. Choose smaller portions or share a serving rather than eating a full portion alone.
3. Satisfy a sweet craving with fruit where possible.
4. Check labels on packaged sweets, since added sugar content varies widely between products.