Cancer Council’s sport junk alert

As South West children return to junior sport, Cancer Council WA, through its LiveLighter program, is urging parents to be aware of the foods and drinks children are exposed to.

While organised sport is a great way to get both physically and mentally healthy, it can also be a setting that encourages and normalises the consumption of junk food.

Cancer Council WA’s South West regional education officer Shenae Hawkins said the junk food available to kids when they participate in sports can significantly undermine the health benefits of being active.

“We are encouraging all parents in the South West to help their kids to understand that the road to sporting success is paved with healthy food, not hamburgers,” Mrs Hawkins said.

“Kids don’t need to be rewarded with fast food for participating in sport, instead, fuel them up with the extra nutrition that budding athletes need.

“Choose something to help build up their bones, brains, muscles, and their immune system. A small smoothie or yoghurt are good options, or trail mix with dried fruit, nuts, seeds and some popcorn thrown is a fun and healthy choice for developing champions.”