Three main rules should govern what we eat: food should nourish, it should help to safeguard health and where necessary play a role in fighting ailments and disease. It should also look and taste good.
There are no "good" or "bad" foods, only good or bad diets.
To maintain health and function efficiently, our bodies need thirteen vitamins and 16 minerals as well as carbohydrates, proteins and fats. And, although it is not a nutrient our bodies need plenty of water. By eating a variety of foods in sensible proportions we can obtain optimum levels of every nutrient needed to maintain good health.
How to achieve the balance
The SA Department of Health and the Heart Foundation of South Africa offer a range of recommendations for achieving a well, balanced, healthy diet.
- Eat Regularly and enjoy your meals and snacks.
- Eat a wide variety of foods.
- Eat enough food to maintain a healthy weight.
- Eat plenty of foods rich in starch and fiber.
- Don't eat too much fat.
- Do not eat high-sugar foods too frequently.
- Keep alcohol within limits.
Vitamins that will assist in maintaining good health.
Calcium and Magnesium
Vitamin C
Omega 3 and 6
With thanks to The Lifestyle Cafe
