A Healthy Diet For Good Health

A healthy diet includes a wide variety of foods from all five food groups: fruits, vegetables; whole grains; low-fat dairy and protein; and fats and oils. It aims to increase dietary fiber, calcium and vitamin D and decrease added sugars, saturated fats and sodium. It may also help with weight loss or maintenance and improve overall health. Your dietary goals should take into account your age, gender, health concerns and lifestyle.

Ideally, your meals and snacks should be made up of mostly whole foods like fresh, frozen or canned vegetables and fruits; whole grains; beans, nuts, seeds and legumes; and low-fat dairy products. The nutrient content of these foods is more important than the amount of calories they provide.

Fruits and vegetables provide a range of vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals that are important for good health. Try to eat at least five portions of a variety of fruits and vegetables each day, which can be eaten fresh, frozen or canned. These can be served as a snack, side dish or dessert.

Starchy foods can be a good source of fibre and a range of vitamins and minerals. Try to choose brown rice, oats, barley, wheat berries and quinoa instead of white bread, pasta and refined grains.

Lean meat, skinless poultry and fish are high in protein and a source of iron, zinc and vitamin B12. Try to eat 2 servings per week, including 1 portion of oily fish.

Vegetables and fruits should make up half of your plate. Aim to eat a colourful variety, such as broccoli, kale, spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots.

Limit saturated and trans fats and opt for unsaturated fats, which are more heart-healthy. Use cooking methods that minimize fat, such as grilling or roasting. Switch to using vegetable, olive or canola oils in place of butter, stick margarine, lard or shortening.

Protein foods are a key part of a healthy diet and include beans, peas, nuts, seeds, eggs, fish and chicken. They are a rich source of iron, zinc and vitamin B12.

A healthy diet is one that is high in potassium, calcium, vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids. Limit salt and added sugars, as they can increase your risk of high blood pressure.

Eating a healthy diet is a challenge for some kids, especially if they are picky eaters. It is important to honor their dislikes, but encourage them to keep trying new foods. You can increase the chances of them accepting new foods by serving them in fun ways, such as cutting them into unusual shapes or creating a food collage (broccoli florets for trees, cauliflower for clouds, or yellow squash for a sun). Eat meals together and avoid using screens at mealtimes to help build family connections around eating. Set a good example by being a healthy role model and limiting your own intake of unhealthy foods and beverages.