A well planned diet helps you stay in good health and stay protected against chronic illnesses. A balanced diet means a food with the right kind of variety in the recommended amounts. It is also important to choose foods from each of the five different food groups.
Healthy eating is basically foods from five different food groups consumed in balance and in the ideal quantities. This approach to food can help keep food interesting, support good health and minimize the risk of diseases. Those foods that do not form part of the 5 groups of foods in discussion are known as junk foods which must be avoided as much as possible.
5 groups of foods for a balanced diet
• Vegetables, beans and legumes
• Fruits
• Fish, eggs, seeds, tofu, poultry, lean meats, and nuts
• Grains like high cereal fiber varieties and wholegrain
• Milk, choose, yoghurt and dairy foods that are processed for removing excess fat
The grouping of foods you find above is based on the fact that the different members in a group provide similar kinds of key nutrients. For instance, some important nutrients in milk, yoghurt, alternative groups and cheese include protein and calcium. On the other hand, the fruit group of foods are rich sources of vitamins especially vitamin C. while choosing foods in the ideal quantities from each of these groups is highly recommended for health, such a balanced food can also ensure that you do not get bored with your diet.
Occasional foods
Those foods that do not fit into these five groups are said to be not necessary for a healthy diet. Known as discretionary choices, these foods must only be eaten occasionally. These foods tend to be high in added sugars, added salt, alcohol, and saturated fats and they tend to have low levels of important nutrients such as fiber.
What are extra foods?
Foods that have high calorie value and saturated fats, added sugars and salts like biscuits, cakes, takeaway foods and soft drinks are known as extra foods that are not to be taken often. Consume them in moderation and also occasionally.
Order for chef prepared diet meals delivered at your doorstep.Once you order such healthy foods from reputed suppliers, you can create a difference in the diet of your family members and also ensure that they benefit from healthy meal choices.
