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:<ul><li>Fruit and vegetables (at least five portions per day);</li><li>High-fibre starchy foods such as potatoes, rice, pasta or bread;</li><li>Dairy or dairy alternatives (such as soya);</li><li>Protein such as beans, pulses, eggs, meat and fish;</li><li>Small amounts of unsaturated fats (healthy fats) such as oils and spreads;</li><li>Plenty of water (or other fluids);</li><li>Having healthy eating habits, such as eating only enough to feel full.</li></ul>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:<ul><li>Lower your risk of chronic health conditions, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers</li><li>Support immune function</li><li>Help the digestive system function</li><li>Help to maintain a healthy weight</li><li>Keep your bones and teeth strong and healthy</li><li>Repair and strengthen muscles</li><li>Improve energy levels</li><li>Support brain function and brain health</li><li>Boost mood</li><li>Help with sleeping patterns.</li></ul>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.