Eating well (Easy Read)

Eating a variety of foods helps you get the nutrients your body needs.

Try to eat different foods from each food group.  

This includes fruits and vegetables, starchy carbohydrates, proteins and healthy fats.  

The Eatwell Guide explains each food group. 

Nutrition labels can help you choose between products.

You can check if what you eat is high in fat, salt and added sugars.

The British Heart Foundation has information about how to check the label.

They also have tips on looking at labels.

Vegetables and pulses can make your meals go further.

You could add mushrooms, beans or lentils to chilli or spaghetti Bolognese.

You could use fresh or frozen options.

Eating regular meals helps to maintain your energy levels throughout the day.

A happy stomach equals a happy mind.

Making food in advance means you are prepared when you get hungry.

MIND have tips on food and mood.

Drinking little and often can help to keep you hydrated throughout the day.

Water is the best option to drink.

You can also drink:

• milk
• tea
• coffee
• fresh juice
• no added-sugar smoothies
• other sugar free drinks

Half a standard glass (150ml) of fresh juice counts as one of your five a day.

Be aware of the caffeine content in tea and coffee.

Keep serving sizes of smoothies or fresh juices to 150ml.

They can be high in sugar.

Eating well can start with small changes.

You could swap sugar on your cereal for dried fruit.

Find food swaps for kids.

You may have read healthy eating advice online.

You should check it is from a trustworthy source.

There is a lot of information online that isn’t always true.

‘Fad’ diets often get promoted online.

They may not be based on scientifically correct information.

Sources you can trust include:

• NHS (Better Health, Healthier Families) and health professionals such as
• GPs
• Registered Dieticians
• Nutritionists

By using these, you will get safe and accurate advice.