Healthy eating means enjoying a wide variety of nutritious foods and drinking plenty of water. The Australian Dietary Guidelines for Adults (0.7mb PDF) provides a good guide for choosing a wide variety of foods.
Enjoy a wide variety of nutritious foods:
- Eat plenty of vegetables, legumes and fruits
- Eat plenty of cereals (including breads, rice, pasta and noodles), preferably wholegrain
- Include lean meat, fish, poultry and/or alternatives
- Include milks, yoghurts, cheeses and/or alternatives. Reduced-fat varieties should be chosen, where possible
- Drink plenty of water.
and take care to:
- Limit saturated fat and moderate total fat intake
- Choose foods low in salt
- Limit your alcohol intake if you choose to drink
- Consume only moderate amounts of sugars and foods containing added sugars.
For further information on recommended food intake and portion sizes view the The Australian Guide to Healthy Eating (2mb PDF).
Making healthy food choices in combination with physical activity will contribute towards a healthy lifestyle and reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes. Contact your local council for ideas on getting active in your area.
Helpful Links
The food calculator and activity calculator available on the Draw the Line Campaign website is a fun way to look at healthy food choices and the link with energy expenditure by being physically active.
Speaking with a dietitian can help to improve eating patterns and set you on the right track for a healthier lifestyle. To find an accredited practicing dietitian in your area visit the Dietitians Association of Australia.