A balanced diet starts with small everyday choices

A varied diet helps the body get the nutrients it needs and supports good health. Vegetables, fruit, whole grains, pulses and suitable sources of protein have an important place in everyday meals. To begin, you can make simple changes: add vegetables to lunch, choose whole fruit more often instead of sweetened drinks, and eat less very salty food. Habits you can keep over time are more useful than short, strict regimens. Nutritional needs differ from person to person. If you have a long-term illness, allergies or particular nutritional needs, match changes to your meals with advice from a doctor or a nutrition professional. The aim is a way of eating that supports your health and fits your daily life.