It's all about a balance

It's all about a balance By Zaahira Kidy, Registered Dietitian Leicestershire County and Rutland Primary Care Trust Ever felt confused about what food is good for you and what is not? Too many people telling you bananas make you put on weight or that salt gets rid of muscle or even that grapefruit can burn fat! How can we tell what's true and what's not when these messages are being bombarded from every possible angle, leaving us feeling confused and frustrated. Well hopefully the following key bullet points will help to clear up some of the concerns people might have had but were never given the chance to explore: » A healthy diet is made up primarily of a variety of fruit and vegetables and starchy foods such as rice, pasta and potatoes. » And no, potatoes are NOT fattening in moderate amounts. Starchy foods provide your body with energy, vitamins, minerals and fibre. They are healthy until fat is added! ›› It is also important to include 2 portions of protein foods a day (fish, eggs, meat, beans and lentils) ›› And 3 portions of dairy foods a day (choose low fat alternatives wherever possible e.g. semi-skimmed or skimmed milk, low fat yoghurt or low fat cheese – this includes paneer which is high fat) ›› Food and drinks high in fat and sugar (Ghee, cakes, biscuits, mithai, fizzy pop) can be eaten in small amounts occasionally but when taken more regularly, can lead to problem with overweight, diabetes and heart disease to name but a few conditions. Basically that's it! There's no magic pill or wonder formula that can cure our health problems. The only way that we can make a difference is to change ourselves. It starts with just 1 person – you. For additional information please visit www.lnds.nhs.uk Source : http://www.leicestermuslims.com/It's all about a balance