Nutrition

The importance of varied diet

For most people a healthy diet is one that includes at least 5 portions of veg and fruits a day; 2 or 3 portions of whole grains such as pot barley, oat or brown bread; and 2 or three portions of lean protein such as fish, red meat or egg. A balanced diet should also include oily fish, nuts, seeds, plant oil such olive oil, herbs and spices.

No one food can make you healthy on its own. Aim instead for a varied and balanced diet

Back To Basics

Nutrients

Dietary minerals

Fruits

Fruits are rich in vatmin C, antioxidants and fibre. They offer a wide range of health benefits as they are a good source of energy. They can be added to almost any meal or eaten as healthy snack throughout the day.

Vegetables & Salads

Vegetables and salads are a quick source of minerals and vitamins. They can complement any dinner and could be served after, alongside or before the main dish.

Chicken, Fish & Seafood

Chicken, fish and seafood are some of the most important elements to include in a healthy diet.
Fish such as salmon, tuna, mackerel and sardines are packed with lean protein and contain an abundance of Omega 3 fatty acids, which will help fight heart disease, circulation problems and various types of cancer. They also prevent depression and dementia, and are a good source of the necessary vitamins that help maintain nerve tissues, strong bones and teeth.

Grain & Pulses

Grains and pulses are the best source of fibre and energy-giving carbohydrates. Their wide range of diverse textures and flavours allow them to be used in side dishes, as a base for dips or to enritch sauces and soups.
They contain low-fat protein, minerals and a lot of fibre. They can lower cholesterol, fight heart disease, stabilize blood sugar and lower your risk of cancer

Herbs & Spices

Herbs and spices offer both nutritional and medecinal benefits. They can make an impact on any diet, even in small quantities.

Nuts, Seeds & Oils

Nuts and seeds are high in protein, essencial fats and minerals. They are a vital part of any diet. Eat them on their own as a quick snack.

Supplements

Supplements are not magic and don’t contain anything you can’t get from food ( don’t confuse them with steroids). Taking supplement won’t give big muscles and strip aways your body fat without any effort on your part, but they are a useful way of controlling you diet.

Suggested Healthy Diet

Glossary of Nutritional Terms