The basics of a balanced diet

The basics of a balanced diet

Learn about nutritious foods that contribute to a healthy and balanced diet.
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Transcript

In the same way a car needs fuel to keep going, your body needs healthy food to stay strong and active!

Let’s see which foods are good for you, and which ones you should limit, to stay healthy. Whole grains, like millet, guinea corn, and rice, are the foundation of a healthy diet.

You should enjoy several servings of food made with whole grains every day. Be sure to also eat at least five servings of a variety of fruits and vegetables each day. They contain carbohydrates for energy, essential vitamins like A and C, and the fiber needed for proper digestion.

Want strong bones? Low-fat dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt are important sources of calcium and vitamin D. Legumes are also good sources of calcium.

Build up your muscles and keep them healthy by eating protein. Seafood, poultry, snails, and legumes provide low-fat protein. They’re a great source of iron, too!

Red meat provides protein too, but it’s high in fat, so you only need a small amount in your diet.

Snacks like puff puff and coconut candy taste really good, but they’re high in sugar, sodium, and fat. So try to have them only as an occasional treat or on special occasions. Don’t let your body ‘run out of gas.’ Fuel up with a balanced diet--to keep your body running strong, and to support a lifetime of good health.