Understanding Public Health England’s Dietary Recommendations for Better Health

Public Health England’s Dietary Recommendations for Better Health

Public Health England (PHE) is an executive agency of the Department of Health and Social Care in the United Kingdom that aims at protecting and improving the health and wellbeing of the population. To achieve this objective, PHE has developed dietary recommendations for better health, which aim to help people make healthy and informed food choices.

In this blog post, we will provide an overview of PHE’s dietary recommendations for better health and discuss the benefits of following them.

The Eatwell Guide

The Eatwell Guide is a visual representation of PHE’s dietary recommendations for better health. It shows the proportions of different food groups that make up a healthy balanced diet. The Eatwell Guide is divided into five main food groups, which are:

1. Fruit and vegetables: These should make up about one-third of the food we eat every day.

2. Starchy carbohydrates: These include potatoes, bread, rice, pasta and should also make up about one-third of the food we eat every day.

3. Dairy and alternatives: These include milk, cheese, yogurt and alternatives, such as soy milk. They should be consumed in moderation.

4. Protein: This includes meat, fish, eggs, beans, and other non-dairy alternatives. They should also be consumed in moderation.

5. Oils and spreads: These should be consumed sparingly.

Benefits of following PHE’s dietary recommendations

Following PHE’s dietary recommendations can have several health benefits. For example:

1. Reduced risk of chronic diseases: Research has shown that a healthy, balanced diet that is in line with PHE’s dietary recommendations can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, stroke, and some types of cancer.

2. Improved gut health: A healthy balanced diet that includes plenty of fiber-rich fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can improve gut health, reduce the risk of constipation, and promote bowel regularity.

3. Better mental health: A balanced diet that is rich in nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, and tryptophan, can help improve mental health, reduce stress and anxiety symptoms and improve overall mood and wellbeing.

4. Increased energy levels: A healthy balanced diet that provides all the necessary nutrients, such as complex carbohydrates, protein, vitamins, and minerals, can help to maintain optimal energy levels and prevent feelings of fatigue.

Conclusion

In conclusion, PHE’s dietary recommendations for better health aim to help people make healthy and informed food choices. These recommendations are based on sound scientific evidence and can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve gut health, promote mental wellbeing, and increase energy levels. By adhering to the Eatwell Guide, individuals can make significant steps towards achieving a healthier and more balanced diet, which in turn can lead to better health and wellbeing in the long term.