Update on carbohydrates and health: the relevance of the Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition report for children

Whole fruit and dried fruit are not counted as a source of free sugars since the sugars remain with the cellular structure; they form an important part of the diet and are a source of fibre and micronutrients. Since they contribute to total sugar intake and thus, contribute to energy intake, it is important to ensure that fibre comes from a variety of sources within a child's diet and that the recommended amount is not entirely achieved by the consumption of fresh and dried fruit. From the NDNS, it is evident that on average children are not consuming enough fruit and vegetables but are eating too much fat and saturated fat as well as free sugars. [...]it is important not to focus on a single nutrient but to promote healthy balanced diets.