A balanced diet includes a variety of foods that provide the body with essential nutrients. About one-third of your daily diet should consist of fruits, vegetables, and starchy foods. Your protein and dairy intake should be modest, and you should limit the amount of fat and sugar you consume. The five main food groups are fruits, vegetables, protein, and fats. While most people get enough of each from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, they don’t get enough of these other essential nutrients.
A balanced diet is also important for maintaining good health. It supplies your body with the vitamins and minerals it needs to function properly. You can only produce a small amount of vitamin D and cholesterol, so you need to get them from your diet. In addition to fruit and vegetables, you also need to include whole grains in your diet, which provide fiber and help regulate blood sugar. To get the most nutrients from your food, eat at least two servings of each type.
Fruits can provide you with a healthy snack or a dessert. They are full of natural sugars, as well as essential vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. Choose whole fruits rather than fruit juice, as juices do not contain the full spectrum of nutrients. Also, look for canned fruit that’s packed in water or its own juice. Fresh fruit is also a great snack, especially when mixed with yogurt or hummus.
