In order to stay healthy and make sure that our bodies are getting all the nutrition they need, it is important to eat a variety of foods from each of the major food groups.
Carbohydrates:
Carbohydrates are broken down in the body to glucose. They provide the body with the energy we need to live. Excessive carbohydrate, however, is stored in the body as fat. It is important to moderate intake of all food groups and not have an imbalance of any.
Fruit and Veg:
Fruit and vegetables are full of essential vitamins and minerals. They are also high in fibre and low in calories and so great for filling you up. When trying to lose weight, increasing your vegetable intake can be a great way of reducing your intake without leaving yourself feeling hungry or unsatisfied by meals.
Protein:
Protein is an essential nutrient as all the hormones, muscles, cells and organs of the body are made up of protein. The building blocks of protein, known as amino acids, cannot all be found in the body, they come from the protein we eat.
Dairy:
Calcium is a nutrient found in dairy and fortified dairy alternatives. Calcium is essential for healthy bones. Dairy products can also be a great source of protein.
Fat
Like protein there are a number of fats which the body needs to function but cannot produce for itself. These are known as essential fatty acids. It is important to make sure that the fat in our diets comes from the best sources as not all fat is good for the body. Fats from processed and fried foods should be had on occasions. Fats from vegetable oils, plants and fish should be included in the diet in moderate amounts daily.