Early childhood is a critical period for establishing lifelong health, and Tops Day Nurseries is dedicated to supporting children’s well-being from the outset. New data from the National Child Measurement Programme (NCMP) highlights the urgency of tackling childhood obesity and ensuring that children’s diets set a foundation for healthy habits.
In the 2023/24 school year, the NCMP found that 76.8% of reception-age children in England were a healthy weight, while 22% of children in Year 6 were living with obesity—over double the rate observed in reception. Obesity in Year 6 children, despite declining from pandemic highs, remains significantly higher than pre-pandemic levels, with severe obesity affecting 5.5% of Year 6 students, up from pre-COVID figures. These trends underscore the importance of fostering nutritious, balanced diets from an early age to help counter these rising statistics.
At Tops Day Nurseries, we align our practices with this evidence. Our no-added-sugar, nutrient-rich menus are crafted to support healthy growth and development, minimising exposure to sugar and helping children develop a preference for wholesome foods. With dishes that feature whole grains, fresh fruits, vegetables, and sustainable proteins like venison, we create balanced meals that promote energy and focus while reducing hidden sugars often found in children’s snacks and drinks.
This approach also reflects recent research linking low sugar exposure during early years with a significantly reduced risk of later-life conditions such as type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure. A study from the University of Southern California cited that reduced sugar intake in the first 1,000 days of life led to a 35% lower risk of type 2 diabetes and a 20% lower risk of high blood pressure in later years. This study, which analysed data from individuals who experienced sugar rationing early in life, reinforces the critical role of diet in shaping long-term health outcomes.
Pete Ttofis, Catering Manager, said: “We are incredibly proud of our commitment to offering children nutritious meals that align with best practices for health. At Tops, we’re not just providing meals; we’re helping children build a healthy relationship with food that we hope will last a lifetime. By creating menus that focus on fresh, whole ingredients, we’re laying the groundwork for healthier futures”
By investing in nutritious, no-added-sugar menus, Tops Day Nurseries contributes to the national effort to combat childhood obesity and supports parents and caregivers in the challenge of offering low-sugar options.
For further details on the study from University of Southern California, you can view the original article on the BBC website, here.
For more information on the National Child Measurement Programme, click here.