Scientific evidence shows that eating sugar and sugary foods contributes to tooth decay. The bigger the amount of sugar and the more frequently it is eaten, the higher the risk of tooth decay.

In Northern Ireland, we have one of the worst dental health records in Europe. However, dental decay can be prevented completely by brushing twice each day with fluoride toothpaste, avoiding sugary foods and drinks between meals, and limiting them to meal times only.

Sugary foods can also contribute to weight gain. Sweets, cakes, biscuits and fizzy drinks contain lots of calories but few vitamins and minerals.We should therefore make them an occasional treat. As they are damaging to teeth, it’s best to eat them at meal times when they cause less damage.