Food Pyramid
It is important that you give your body all the goodness it needs to function properly and to maintain good health. The good news is that you don’t need any special foods or drinks for this.
All you need to do is eat sensibly, choosing a range of foods in the correct proportions.
The Food Pyramid is made up of five food groups - simply choose a variety of foods from each group in the proportions shown below.
In practical terms this means:
- Basing your meals and snacks on starchy foods such as
bread, breakfast cereals, potatoes, rice, noodles, oats, pasta etc.
But be careful not to add or cook them in too much fat.
- Having at least 5 portions of fruit and vegetables each day.
Remember that beans, pulses and 100% fruit juice count
towards your total but only once a day.
- Choosing moderate amounts of meat, fish and pulses,
removing the skin from chicken, excess fat from meat and
avoiding frying.
- Having 3 portions of dairy foods each day. A portion is
equivalent to 1/3 pint of milk, a small pot of yogurt or 1oz or
25g of cheese (matchbox size).
- Choosing reduced fat versions where you can, eg semi
skimmed milk, cottage cheese etc. Eating foods containing fat
and sugar sparingly. Look out for reduced or low fat/ sugar
versions.
- Try to make any changes to your diet slowly, enjoy your
food and remember there are no healthy or unhealthy foods, just
healthy or unhealthy diets.
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