Treat foods
Treat foods are those that contain little or no nutritional value, but harmful amounts of salt, fat and sugar.
Some foods, such as cakes, biscuits, sugary drinks, sweets and crisps are high in fat, sugar and salt. They foods are usually low in vitamins, minerals and fibre. While these foods are enjoyable to eat, it is best to only have them occasionally and in small amounts.
If you are having some of these foods, stick to smaller, snack-sized versions. Check the label of similar foods and choose the option that is lower in fat, sugar and salt.
The following examples are about 100 calories:
- about 4 squares of chocolate (half a bar)
- 1 small or fun-sized chocolate coated bar
- 1 bag of lower-fat crisps
- 1 small cup cake (without icing)
- 1 plain mini muffin
- 2 plain biscuits or 1 chocolate biscuit
- half a can or 200ml of sugary drink
- 1 scoop of vanilla ice-cream
- half or 1 cereal bar - check the label for calories
- 5-6 chips
If you are hungry between meals, try having some healthier snacks such as fresh fruit or a yoghurt instead. This will give you energy and keep you feeling full.
Healthy swaps
Crisps | Low-fat crisps, rice cakes or popcorn |
Chocolate | Fun-sized chocolate bars |
Biscuits | Low-fat or plain biscuits |
Hot chocolate | Choose low-calorie hot chocolate or cocoa |
Chips | Oven chips |
Ice-cream | Low-fat frozen yogurt/ ice-cream/ ice-pops |
Cream | Low-fat natural yogurt |
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