- English Asem Alpys
Why is healthy eating important? The benefits of a balanced diet
When we talk about healthy eating, we mean eating a wide variety of foods in the right proportions.
Following a healthy, balanced diet helps your body to get the nutrition and energy it needs to stay healthy, active and well. This type of diet will help you to maintain good health, a healthy weight, and help you to feel your best.
Why is healthy eating important? The benefits of a balanced diet
A healthy diet needs to incorporate a range of different foods and should typically consist of:
Fruit and vegetables (at least five portions per day);
High-fibre starchy foods such as potatoes, rice, pasta or bread;
Dairy or dairy alternatives (such as soya);
Protein such as beans, pulses, eggs, meat and fish;
Small amounts of unsaturated fats (healthy fats) such as oils and spreads;
Plenty of water (or other fluids);
Having healthy eating habits, such as eating only enough to feel full.
Eating a good variety of these foods every day will help you to get a wide range of nutrients from your diet.
Why is healthy eating important? The benefits of a balanced diet
What we eat and drink can have a huge impact on our bodies and our health, which is why a healthy diet is so essential.
There are many benefits of eating healthily. Healthy eating can:
Lower your risk of chronic health conditions, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers
Support immune function
Help the digestive system function
Help to maintain a healthy weight
Keep your bones and teeth strong and healthy
Repair and strengthen muscles
Improve energy levels
Support brain function and brain health
Boost mood
Help with sleeping patterns.
The benefits of a healthy diet are huge — providing the energy and nutrients we need to keep active throughout the day while ensuring that we remain healthy far into the future.