NUTRITION
Knowledge and advice on nutrition tends to evolve overtime and guidelines will vary depending on country, food culture and availability of food resources. However there are still some nutrition basics that can help you sort through the latest research and evidence.
Nutrition 101
The goal is to eat wholesome foods that supports your health and daily function.
Dieticians are among healthcare professionals that give advice on nutrition after taking into account your health, food preferences and lifestyle. Here we will look at basic nutrition guidelines and international standards. To get more personalized information seek advice from your healthcare professional, dietician or nutritionist.
International nutrition guidelines promote the following:
Increasing consumption of fruits and vegetables. This helps the body get the essential nutrients and fiber it needs.
Eating more wholegrains instead of refined grains.
Eating healthier proteins such as fish, poultry, beans and nuts while limiting red meat and processed meats.
Limiting unhealthy fats such as trans fats and saturated fats found in processed snacks, fried foods and some animal products such as milk.
Reducing added sugars such as are found in soft drinks, sweets, processed snack and in general the lowering of the consumption of refined sugars.
Controlling salt intake by limiting salty and processed foods.
Stay hydrated throughout the day.
Being mindful of food safety to avoid getting sick, poisoned or harmed by eating unsafe or contaminated food.
Support breast feeding. Breast feeding for the first six months of life is recommended with continued breast feeding and complementary foods recommended thereafter.
Encouraging physical activity to maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle.
