Introduction

Taking care to stay hydrated and eating a well balanced and healthy diet can help you to:

• control your body weight
• maintain a good immune system
• stay in a better mood
• be able to concentrate and process your thoughts
• manage health conditions, such as diabetes
• look after your body generally, including your heart, gut, bones and teeth
• get a good night's sleep.

Eating well

The government has produced a handy poster to help us know how to eat well. The Eatwell Guide shows how much of each different type of food we should eat to make sure we get the energy and nutrients our bodies need.

It covers these five food groups:

• fruit and vegetables
• potatoes, bread, rice, pasta and other starchy carbohydrates
• beans, pulses, fish, eggs, meat and other proteins
• dairy and alternatives
• oils and spreads.

You can find out more about the Eatwell Guide on the NHS website.

Alternatively, you can download the Eatwell Guide poster on the GOV.UK website.

Advice on how to eat a balanced diet is available on the NHS website.

Tips to shop healthier

Healthy eating does not have to cost more. With a bit of planning you can improve your diet and pop a few extra pennies in the savings jar too.

Here are our top tips:

1. Plan your meals You’ll be less likely to reach for a quicker, easier, junk food option at meal times if you have already planned what you are eating.


2. Write a shopping list Before heading to the supermarket, make a list of everything you need for the meals you have planned. At the store, having a list to follow will also mean you’ll avoid unhealthy impulse buys.


3. Go shopping after you have eaten Avoid grocery shopping on an empty stomach as you may be more tempted to buy unhealthy foods, or things you do not need.


4. Avoid junk food aisles In most supermarkets you’ll find the fresh foods like fruits, vegetables, dairy, meat and fish are usually located around the edges of the shop. Skipping the centre aisles, which often contain processed and packaged foods, can make a big difference to your trolley.


5. Check nutrition labels Take the time to read the nutrition labels on packaged foods. Look for products that are low in added sugars, saturated fats, and sodium, and high in fibre and nutrients. Learn more about nutrition labels on the NHS website. Learn more about nutrition labels on the NHS website.

Food preparation services

Meal deliveries are a great way to make sure you get at least one good meal a day.

Learn about companies that offer this service in East Yorkshire.