What is a well balanced healthy diet?
At present, experts agree that a well balanced diet is one which is low in fat, sugar and salt and high in fibre. Fibre is the part of fruit, vegetable or cereal, which passes through your body undigested and helps to prevent constipation. Your diet should contain sufficient protein and a wide range of vitamins and minerals. Healthy eating means getting the right balance between different foods. A diet that includes lots of vegetables, fruit, beans and whole-wheat cereals (including bread) and is low in fat is considered the best. It is also the best diet for many people who have liver disease. There are five food groups: • Bread, cereal, potatoes, rice, pasta • Fruit and vegetables • Milk, yoghurt, eggs and cheese • Meat, fish, nuts, pulses and beans • High calorie foods, such as fried and sugary foods It is important to choose a variety of foods from the first four groups every day to get a wide range of nutrients. Foods in the fifth group may be useful for people who are underweight
