How To Get A Well Balanced Diet

What is a Well Balanced Diet?

A well balanced diet is a diet that consists of all the necessary nutrients, vitamins, minerals and energy your body needs to stay healthy. It should include a variety of foods from the five main food groups: fruits, vegetables, grains, proteins and dairy. Eating a balanced diet on a regular basis helps you maintain your health, prevent diseases and feel your best. It doesn’t have to be boring either; in fact, eating well can be quite tasty and enjoyable.

Why is a Well Balanced Diet Important?

Eating a well balanced diet is important for everyone, regardless of age or activity level. It is essential for providing your body with the vitamins and minerals it needs to stay healthy and functioning. A balanced diet helps to reduce the risk of certain diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and stroke, as well as some forms of cancer. It also helps to maintain your weight and promote strong bones and muscles. A well balanced diet is important for your overall wellbeing.

How to Create a Well Balanced Diet

Creating a well balanced diet doesn’t have to be difficult or time consuming. Start by including the five main food groups in your diet: fruits, vegetables, grains, proteins and dairy. Fruits and vegetables are important sources of many vitamins and minerals, while grains provide energy and protein helps to build and repair body tissues. Dairy products are an important source of calcium and other minerals. Aim to eat a variety of foods from each food group, in the right amounts.

Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are an essential part of a well balanced diet. Aim to eat at least two servings of fruit and five servings of vegetables every day. Fresh, frozen or canned fruits and vegetables are all good options; however, opt for fresh or frozen over canned if possible. Be sure to include a variety of different types of fruits and vegetables in your diet, including dark green leafy vegetables, orange and yellow fruits and vegetables, and legumes.

Grains

Grains provide energy and should be included in a well balanced diet. Choose whole grain breads, cereals, rice and pasta. These are healthier options than white bread and white rice and are a good source of dietary fibre. Aim to have three or more servings of whole grain products each day.

Protein

Protein is an important nutrient for building and repairing body tissues. Good sources of protein include lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, legumes, nuts, seeds and dairy products. Aim to have two to three servings of protein each day. Try to include a variety of different proteins in your diet, such as beans, nuts, lentils and fish.

Dairy

Dairy products are an important source of calcium and other minerals. Low-fat milk, yoghurt and cheese are good sources of dairy in a healthy diet. Aim to have two to three servings of dairy each day. Non-dairy options, such as fortified soy milk, tofu, almonds and chia seeds, are also good sources of calcium.

Conclusion

Eating a well balanced diet is important for your overall health and wellbeing. It helps to reduce the risk of certain diseases, maintain your weight and provide your body with the vitamins and minerals it needs to stay healthy. Start by including the five main food groups in your diet and aim to eat a variety of different foods from each group. Eating well doesn’t have to be boring; in fact, it can be quite tasty and enjoyable.