Healthy eating means enjoying a wide variety of nutritious foods.
The Australian Dietary Guidelines (external site) can give you a picture of what you and your family should be eating and drinking every day.
The guidelines recommend that you eat:
- lots of vegetables of different types and colours (this includes legumes and beans)
- fruit
- grain (cereal) foods such as bread, cereals, rice, pasta, noodles, polenta, couscous, oats, quinoa and barley (whole grain products are best)
- lean meats and poultry, fish, eggs, tofu, nuts and seeds
- milk, yoghurt, cheese and/or dairy alternatives, mostly reduced fat (reduced fat milks are not suitable for children under the age of 2 years).
You should also drink plenty of water every day.
The guidelines also recommend that you take care to:
- limit foods high in saturated fats such as biscuits, cakes, pies, processed meats, fried foods, crisps and other savoury snacks
- choose foods that are low in salt and do not add salt to home-cooked meals
- limit your alcohol intake if you choose to drink
- limit sugary foods and drinks such as lollies, chocolates, soft drinks, cordial, sports drinks and other sweetened beverages.
Diabetes WA runs a number of programs designed to help you make and maintain healthy eating habits.
Speaking with a dietitian can also help get you started on the right path. Find an accredited practising dietitian at the Dietitians Association of Australia.