Describe a balanced diet as talking the right balance of different foods you need and the right amount of energy.

Very few foods are either all good or all bad. By having an idea of the balance in your diet, it should be easier to enjoy food and be healthy.

There are seven essential factors for a balanced diet: carbs, protein, fat, fibre, vitamins, minerals and water.

Carb=45-55=Energy=Grains (refined & unrefined) : wheat, maize, corn, millet, oats, rice, flour, pasta, noodles; potatoes; sweet potatoes, yam. Fruit (sugar).

Protein=10-35%=Tissue growth and maintenance=Meat, fish, nuts, eggs, soya, beans and pulses.

Fat=20-35% from fat=Energy, energy storage, hormone production Nuts, seeds, plant oils, dairy products (milk, cheese).

Fibre=Included in carbs.=Regulates blood sugar levels, bowel function and bowel health.=Peas, beans, vegetables, fruit, oats, whole grains, brown rice, nuts, seeds.

Vitamins & minerals=trace=Metabolism regulation, aiding cell growth, other biochemical functions=Specific to each vitamin/mineral. A range of vegetables, lean meat, nuts and seeds will cover most people's needs.

Water=0=Maintaining hydration=Drinking water, other beverages. About 20% of water intake comes from food.

a balance diet is eating all of the food groups described on the food group chart