Stay Healthy With A Balanced Diet

Diet plays an important role in our overall health, but too much focus on individual foods may encourage unhealthy eating habits.

Alison Hornby, a dietitian and spokesperson for the British Dietetic Association (BDA) said no food can compensate for unhealthy eating.

“No food, including those labelled ‘superfoods’, can compensate for unhealthy eating. If people mistakenly believe they can ‘undo’ the damage caused by unhealthy foods by eating a superfood, they may continue making routine choices that are unhealthy and increase their risk of long-term illness.”

When it comes to a healthy balanced diet, the Mediterranean diet can reduce the risk of some chronic diseases and even increase life expectancy.

“When it comes to keeping healthy, it’s best not to concentrate on any one food in the hope it will work miracles. All unprocessed food from the major food groups could be considered ‘super’. All these foods are useful as part of a balanced diet.You should eat a variety of foods, as described by the Eatwell plate, to ensure you get enough of the nutrients your body needs. Focusing on getting your five portions of fruit and vegetables a day is a perfect way to start.”

Eatwell Plate