For growth, activities and health, body needs different nutrients. Eat variety of food to ensure balanced diet. Adequate diet or balanced diet should be consumed through a wise choice of food items from a variety of food groups.
A balanced diet is a wholesome and nutritionally adequate diet. This is a food intake that includes all of the dietary needs/nutrients in correct proportions. It provides required protein, calories, vitamin, minerals and fibres. A balanced diet can be achieved by eating diverse food since no single food item with all essential nutrients.
A balanced diet is needed for growth and development to sustain life, maintain health, optimum brain function, immune function, etc.
Food groups have been identified into 10 groups to help people make choices from different food groups. Adequate quantities of food from at least 5-7 food groups should be consumed on daily basis. Other food may be consumed at least 2-3 times a week. This method of ensuring diversity and variety within groups will meet adequacy of most nutrients. The quantities of food needed to meet the nutrients requirements vary with age, gender, physiological status and physical activities.
The food pyramid is a practical, easy-to-understand guide that helps individuals make informed dietary choices, ensuring they get the nutrients needed for energy, growth, and overall well-being while maintaining a balanced and healthy lifestyle. The food pyramid is a visual representation of a balanced diet, designed to show the different food groups and the recommended proportions needed for healthy eating. It is structured in tiers, with the base representing foods that should be consumed in larger quantities and the top representing those to be eaten sparingly.
In order to lead a healthy life, it is essential to follow a balanced diet. Balanced diet is associated with good health, prevention of diseases and recovery from illnesses. In order to lead a healthy life, it is essential to follow a balanced diet. Balanced diet is associated with good health, prevention of diseases and recovery from illnesses.
Vegetables and green leafy vegetables provide plenty of vitamins and minerals and offers protection from micronutrient deficiencies and various diseases. The micronutrients present are vitamins and minerals whereas, macronutrients present are complex carbohydrates and fibres hence adequate intake of these promotes health.
Using a divserse variety of oilseeds, nuts and whole grains, provides a balance of all fatty acids (lipids).