A local clinical nutritionist has welcomed a push from Australia's state and federal health ministers to consider the addition of added sugar labels to packaged food and beverages.
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On Monday, the Australia and New Zealand Ministerial Forum on Food Regulation announced a review into nutrition labeling for added sugars.
READ MORE: Food review to look at added sugar labels
The review has called for a graphic displaying the teaspoons of added sugar to be included on packaged goods and the removal of energy icons displayed on the front of most soft drinks.
According to the Department of Health, a standard 600 millilitre bottle of soft drink contains 15 teaspoons of sugar.
Rachel Murray, who runs local business Total Nutrition, said the addition of added sugar information could help consumers enhance their dietary decisions.
"These labels, along with information on the implications of a high sugar intake, will allow individuals to make informed decisions on the food and drink products they are consuming," Ms Murray said.
"It might not stop everyone from consuming excess sugar, but it gives people the information they need to make decisions for themselves."
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 31 per cent of the nation's adult population were classified as obese in 2018.
In addition, one in four children and adolescents [aged two to 17] were considered overweight or obese.
Ms Murray said continued education around nutrition and prevention strategies is essential in promoting long-term health.
"We have to take every opportunity possible to help educate the community," she said.
"For this reason, I have started conducting seminars throughout Bathurst and surrounding areas providing nutrition information and tips on incorporating healthy eating strategies into a busy lifestyle."
Ms Murray said it's paramount to adopt a holistic approach to long-term health.
"As a nutritionist, I help people increase the nutrient density in their meals, while building a healthy relationship with food," she said.
"I also place a high importance on physical activity, mental health, stress management activities and many other facets of health."
Ms Murray said a range of simple solutions can prove beneficial in kick-starting a healthier routine
"It can be as simple as a big glass of water first thing in the morning, going for a walk after work or adding an extra vegetable to your plate for dinner," she said.
"My other tip is to start doing some form of meal preparation in advance to beat the post-work fatigue."
What are your views on dietary decision-making?
Sam Bolt
"I'm not in the business of telling people what to do. I'm much more in the business of describing things, situations and stuff like that and leaving them out there, and you can make up your minds about them." -Nick Cave
"I'm not in the business of telling people what to do. I'm much more in the business of describing things, situations and stuff like that and leaving them out there, and you can make up your minds about them." -Nick Cave
