Department Of Health Healthy Eating Guidelines

Introducing The Guidelines

The Department of Health (DOH) has released its Healthy Eating Guidelines in order to help the public make informed decisions about their eating habits, and to encourage healthier lifestyles. The guidelines are designed to provide advice on how to balance the five food groups in order to maintain a healthy diet. The five food groups are: fruit and vegetables, grains, dairy, protein, and healthy fats. The guidelines also provide advice on limiting the amount of processed and sugary foods that are consumed.

Fruit and Vegetables

The Department of Health recommends that adults and children should aim to eat at least five portions of fruit and vegetables a day. This can include both fresh and frozen produce, as well as tinned fruit and vegetables without added salt or sugar. Eating a wide variety of colours and types of fruit and vegetables is important, as this will ensure that you get all the different vitamins and minerals that they provide.

Grains

Grains are an important source of energy and fibre, as well as essential vitamins and minerals. The Department of Health recommends that adults and children should aim to eat at least 6-8 portions of grains per day. These should be whole-grains such as brown rice, quinoa, oats, and buckwheat. Whole-grains are more nutritious than refined grains, as they are richer in fibre and other nutrients.

Dairy

The Department of Health recommends that adults and children should aim to eat at least 2-3 portions of dairy a day. Dairy is important for maintaining strong bones and teeth, as it is a good source of calcium. Dairy products can include milk, cheese, yoghurt, and fortified plant-based milks.

Protein

Protein is essential for growth and repair of the body's cells and tissues. The Department of Health recommends that adults and children should aim to eat at least 2-3 portions of protein a day. Protein sources can include lean meats, fish, eggs, pulses, and nuts.

Healthy Fats

Healthy fats are important for maintaining a healthy diet, and are also essential for the absorption of certain vitamins. The Department of Health recommends that adults and children should aim to eat at least 3-4 portions of healthy fats a day. Healthy fats can include olive oil, avocado, and nut butters.

Conclusion

The Department of Health's Healthy Eating Guidelines are designed to provide advice on how to balance the five food groups in order to maintain a healthy diet. Eating a variety of fruit and vegetables, grains, dairy, protein, and healthy fats is important for staying healthy and achieving a balanced diet. Limiting the amount of processed and sugary foods is also important for maintaining good health. Following the Department of Health's Healthy Eating Guidelines is a great way to ensure that you are eating a nutritious and balanced diet.