Eating a Well-Balanced Diet

Eating a healthy, and balanced diet is important to have good health and help you to feel your best. Here are some ways to eat a balanced diet:

 

1. Keep each food group in your diet
   • Include variety of food from the 5 main groups off of the MyPlate diagram
   • Eat higher fiber foods like potatoes, bread, rice, or pasta
   • Drink plenty of fluids, at least 6-8 glasses a day
   • For protein, you can eat beans, fish, eggs, meat, etc.
   • Dairy should be included in your diet, even if it’s an alternative dairy product
   • Eat less foods and drinks that are high in fat, salt, and sugar
2. Give bad foods the cold shoulder
   • Avoid any foods that are acidic, salty, and spicy
   • Try chicken, rice, non-acidic fruits and vegetables, pudding, and hydrating liquids instead of pizza and burgers
   • Eat quick and easy snacks that are available right away
3. Be food-safe

It is important to be aware of how to handle the food before you include it in your diet.

• Wash hands before handling food
• Rinse fruits and vegetables before eating
• Disinfect cutting boards after each use
• Avoid raw or undercooked foods or unpasteurized milks and cheeses
• Use a clean thermometer when preparing meat

4. Pack in nutrients
   • Eat foods that are loaded with nutritious calories and energy-boosting protein
   • Aim for 2 ½ cups of fruits and vegetables a day
   • Snack between meals if easier than having three big meals
   • Try a milkshake or nutritional beverage for a calorie and protein boost
5. Talk to a pro
   • Talk to a registered dietitian for tips to develop a healthy plan

 

Source: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/  November 2019 Health magazine