Eating healthily

Eating healthily plays an important role in maintaining our physical and mental health. It means having a balanced diet containing a variety of foods from the different food groups in the correct proportions. It also means eating the right amount of food for a healthy body weight.

Advice from the NHS includes:

• eating a minimum of 5 portions of fruit and vegetables every day
• opting for low fat and reduced sugar versions of products when possible, such as skimmed milk
• trying to eat less red and processed meat, such as ham and bacon
• reducing the amount of “junk food” you consume. Foods like crisps, cakes, chocolate and butter are not a necessary part of our diet so should only be eaten occasionally
• drinking 6 to 8 glasses of non-alcoholic fluids every day. This includes caffeinated drinks like tea and coffee
• limiting sugary drinks such as fruit juice and smoothies to a maximum of 150ml a day

If you are not able to eat a healthy, balanced diet you could have an eating disorder. Eating disorders can affect anybody at any time. Common eating disorders include anorexia, bulimia and binge eating.

If you think you might have an eating disorder, you should speak to your GP who will be able to talk you through your options. You can also call Beat’s helpline on 0808 801 0677. The helpline is open 365 days a year from 9am-8pm on weekdays and 4pm-8pm on weekends and bank holidays. You can also use their online chat.