Having a healthy diet means eating a variety of foods to maintain good health. This is a good way to prevent disease, as well as protecting against malnutrition. When you follow a balanced diet, you will get all the nutrients your body needs in a healthy balance.
The World Health Organization recommends that we eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. These are packed with vitamins and minerals, as well as fibre. They also help to boost your body’s supply of antioxidants.
One of the most important things you can do to maintain a healthy diet is to limit your intake of processed foods. Many processed foods are full of unnecessary ingredients. Examples of processed foods include white bread, white rice, and white flour products.
Instead, use whole grain breads or cereals. These are more nutritious than refined varieties. They contain more fiber, B vitamins, and phytochemicals. These products are also a good source of protein. They can also help you feel full for longer.
Another healthy tip is to limit your intake of kilojoules. This can be done by choosing lower fat milk. You can also drink low-sugar, unsweetened drinks such as water. You should avoid sugary soft drinks, which can have harmful effects on your teeth.
You should also avoid deep-fried foods. They are often high in calories and contain too much saturated fat. They also contain added salt. If you want to eat in a restaurant, ask for less of everything, and choose smaller portions. Make sure you add a green salad to your meal.
It’s a good idea to experiment with different foods to discover what works best for you. You can try wholemeal toast, soups, and stews. These are all easy to prepare in large quantities. You can freeze them, or microwave them for a quick dinner. Adding fresh herbs such as rosemary to your meals can help to provide some additional flavor.
A healthy diet includes one quarter of your plate filled with fruits and vegetables. This will also reduce your risk of cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. This is because fruits are packed with antioxidants, which can fight disease and maintain healthy weight.
You should also limit your intake of saturated fat and trans-fats. Saturated fat and trans-fats are found in fried foods, and commercially prepared meals. Saturated fats can raise blood cholesterol levels, and can increase your risk of heart disease and other health problems. They should be replaced by unsaturated fats. These fats are found in vegetable oils, avocados, and oily fish. You should also cut down on your intake of sodium and sugar.
It’s also a good idea to choose lean cuts of meat and tofu. You can also include other protein sources such as shellfish, nuts, and poultry. Getting enough protein will help you to maintain a healthy weight.
You should also consume at least three nutritious meals a day. Try to eat small meals throughout the day, and keep healthy snacks in your purse or car.
