A recent study has revealed that increased sugar intake during the first 1,000 days, from conception to two years of age, could increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure later in life as reported by BBC News.

Researchers found that implementing ‘early-life rationing’ could reduce the risk of diabetes by approximately 35% and hypertension by about 20%, while also delaying disease onset by 4 and 2 years, respectively.

If you’re feeling unsure about sugar intake for yourself or your baby, don’t stress. We’ve shared 10 tips to help you reduce sugar intake and make healthier choices during these 1,000 days.

Five no added sugar swaps for babies and toddlers you can start today

1. Swap shop bought treats for no added sugar homemade recipes

While shop bought treats are convenient, they may contain higher levels of sugar than homemade snacks. By making your own treats, you can control the sugar content. Nuby has partnered with Shikha Gill, founder of family recipe app My.Little.Food.Critic, to provide quick and easy no-added-sugar recipes, including four ingredient Bakewell tart cookies and three ingredient shortbread.

2. Choose plain yoghurt instead of sweetened yoghurt

At around six months of age, babies can begin to have plain yoghurt and fromage frais. Choosing unsweetened yoghurts allows you to limit added sugars, you can even add a spoonful of mashed fruit, such as banana, to create a naturally sweetened snack. This is also a tip you can try in pregnancy.  

3. Use herbs and spices to add natural sweetness

As babies start their weaning journey, introducing herbs and spices can broaden their palate and enhance flavour. Using spices like cinnamon or nutmeg in meals can help to add a hint of sweetness without upping the sugar content.

4. Make ice lollies with fruit and water

Make your own fruit ice lollies by blending pureed fruit with water and pouring it into ice lolly moulds. Freeze them for an ice lolly that’s naturally sweet and perfect for warm days or teething babies, avoiding added sugars. 

5. Choose unsweetened oats instead of sweetened cereal

Swap sweetened cereal for unsweetened oat porridge either plain or mix in some mashed fruit for natural sweetness, keeping your baby or toddlers sugar intake low while still offering a tasty breakfast option. A great quick and convenient alternative are baby porridges from Kendamil which have no added sugar and come in a variety of different flavours including banana, berry, apple and blackcurrant and more. 

Five ways to cut down on sugar during pregnancy

1. Swap sugary drinks for fruit-infused water

Instead of sugary juices or fizzy drinks try water with slices of lemon, cucumber or berries. This swap is free from added sugars and keeps you hydrated throughout the day, which can also help you feel fuller and less likely to snack.

2. Double-check for hidden sugars on packaged food

Many packaged foods, even those labelled low-fat, can contain hidden sugars. Double-check the ingredient list for added sugars under names like glucose or syrup to help limit the sugar in your snacks. 

3. Make sure you’re getting enough fibre in your diet

Fibre is important as it helps to keep you fuller for longer, which in turn can reduce cravings for sugary snacks. Government guidelines say we should aim for 30g of fibre a day as part of a healthy diet. Snacks that will help you hit this goal include vegetables, whole grains and nuts.

4. Watch out for sugary condiments

Many sauces and condiments can contain hidden sugars. When shopping, look for options like tomato sauce, salad dressings, and marinades that are labelled no added sugar or swap to things like vinegar or herbs to add flavour instead. 

5.  Choose carbs with less sugar

Carbohydrates are an important source of energy. Instead of having starchy (white) foods that can raise blood sugar levels, choose wholegrain options during pregnancy, such as brown rice and wholewheat pasta.

Have you heard? We’ve partnered with FareShare to help fund meals for children in need, per every pack of participating ‘Good Square Meal’ tableware sold. You can find out more about the campaign and shop the tableware range including baby bowls, baby weaning cutlery, toddler tumblers and more on our Good Square Meal page of the website.