Healthy Foods
Explore nutritious food groups and practical ways to include a variety of foods in everyday meals.
Learn More →Understanding Nutrition
Nutrition is the process through which the body gets energy and nutrients from food and beverages. A healthy eating pattern generally includes a variety of foods and nutrients.
Nutrition is only one part of overall health. Physical activity, sleep, stress, environment, medical circumstances and access to appropriate healthcare can also affect health.
💡 Simple Nutrition Principle
Focus on variety, balance and sustainable eating habits rather than trying to make every meal perfect.
🥗 Healthy Foods
A varied eating pattern can include vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans and other legumes, nuts and seeds, and suitable sources of protein.
- Vegetables and fruits
- Whole grains and other grain foods
- Beans, lentils and other legumes
- Nuts and seeds
- Milk, yogurt and other suitable dairy foods
- Eggs, fish, poultry or other protein foods according to dietary preference
🍎 What Is a Balanced Diet?
A balanced diet generally means eating a variety of foods that provide different nutrients and energy according to individual needs.
A person's ideal eating pattern can vary according to age, activity level, culture, preferences, budget and health circumstances.
🥚 Protein
Protein is a nutrient used by the body for many normal functions, including maintaining and repairing tissues.
Common protein sources include beans, lentils, dairy foods, eggs, fish, meat, nuts, seeds and suitable plant-based alternatives.
🌾 Dietary Fiber
Dietary fiber is found mainly in plant foods. It is an important part of many healthy eating patterns and can support normal digestive health.
Common sources include vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans, lentils, nuts and seeds.
💊 Vitamins
Vitamins are nutrients that the body needs in relatively small amounts for normal functions. Different vitamins have different roles.
Many vitamins can be obtained through a varied diet. Supplement needs can differ between individuals and should be discussed with an appropriate professional when necessary.
🧂 Minerals
Minerals are essential nutrients involved in many normal body processes.
Examples include calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium and zinc. Food sources vary depending on the mineral.
💧 Hydration
Fluids are important for normal body functions. Fluid requirements vary depending on factors such as activity, climate, diet and individual circumstances.
Water is a common source of fluid, while many foods and other beverages can also contribute to overall fluid intake.
🔥 Calories & Energy
Calories are a way of measuring energy. Food and beverages provide energy, while the body uses energy for basic functions and physical activity.
Daily energy requirements differ between people. Factors can include age, body size, activity level and other individual characteristics.
📋 What Can Affect Nutrition Needs?
- Age and stage of life
- Body size and individual characteristics
- Physical activity level
- Dietary pattern and food preferences
- Health circumstances
- Medications and professional dietary considerations
- Climate and daily environment