Diet: How Can You Ensure Yours Is Balanced?

Your body needs the correct fuel in order to function correctly, so it’s advised that you eat a balanced diet in order to reduce your risk of health problems and enjoy a sense of vitality and wellbeing. If you’re trying to lose weight, you’ll no doubt be aware of how important your diet is to maintaining a healthy weight, so a few tweaks here and there could result in your shifting a few extra pounds as well.

Low fat

Health experts and dieticians all agree that limiting your intake of fats is good for your health – fats, of various types, can be found in oils, butter, cream, fried foods and junk food, such as biscuits or crisps. Too much fat not only leads to excess weight, but it also causes health problems such as heart disease and stroke. In particular, you should avoid saturated and trans-fats, as these can damage your health.

Moderate Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates get a bad reputation as a harmful diet food, but actually the body needs some carbs in order to fuel itself, as this is its energy source. You can get carbohydrates from bread, rice and pasta, but if you want a healthier version, opt for the wholemeal or wholegrain versions.

High Fibre

Fibre is important for keeping the inner part of the body moving effectively, helping to prevent bowel cancer and lowering cholesterol. Wholegrain and wholewheat options are the best for gaining your fibre intake, but fruit, vegetables and pulses all count towards as well.

Vitamins and Minerals

You’ll find a vast selection of vitamins and minerals from fruit and vegetables, in addition to fibre and antioxidants. These elements of fresh produce help to create a strong immune system, fight the free radicals in the body and build stronger cells within the body.

Varied Foods

Don’t stick to one food group as a way to get as much of that nutrient, or as a way to lose weight, as this won’t be effective. Your body needs a range of nutrients in order to be healthy, so mix up the food groups you eat from so that you get something from every group each day.

Sugar and Sweets

While sugar can serve as an energy source, too much can cause health problems and tooth decay. Try to limit your intake to just a small dose, and opt for natural sources such as those from fruit to make it healthier still.

Limit Consumption of Salt

Salt is great for seasoning your food but, in reality, it actually just masks the flavour of your food if you eat too much. Try to read the labels where possible to limit your intake, and opt for low sodium alternatives of foods if you can.

Drink plenty of water

You need to keep the body hydrated in order to stay healthy, so try to drink at least two litres of water each day. This helps the body function properly, helps the organs to work effectively and keeps the mind clear.