The Eatwell guide is the tool we use in PhunkyFoods to describe a healthy, balanced diet to children of all ages. It is based on scientific evidence and includes the government recommendations for healthier eating. It is a simple, visual tool to use.
At the end of this page you will find a PDF version of this information. You can download it, print it out and stick it on your fridge or noticeboard to help you and your family to be able to plan a healthy, balanced diet.
Source: Public Health England in association with the Welsh government, Food Standards Scotland and the Food Standards Agency in Northern Ireland.
Is the Eatwell Guide for me?
- The Eatwell Guide applies to most people regardless of weight, dietary restrictions/preferences or ethnic origin.
- However it does NOT apply to children under the age of 2 because they have different nutritional needs. Between the ages of two and five years, children should gradually move to eating the same foods as the rest of the family, in the proportions show in the Eatwell Guide.
- Anyone with special dietary requirements or medical needs should check with a registered dietitian, or their GP, on how to adapt the Eatwell Guide to meet their individual needs.
When should I use the Eatwell Guide?
You can use the Eatwell Guide to make healthier choices whenever you’re;
- At home deciding what to eat, what to cook, what to put in a lunchbox or what to shop for
- Out shopping – aim to fill your trolley/basket with a healthy balance of different types of food
- Eating out in a restaurant, café or work canteen, or when you’re choosing food on the run – follow the Eatwell Guide to help you choose a healthy balance.
8 tips for eating well for the whole family
1. Base your meals on starchy foods; choosing wholegrain varieties where possible.
2. Eat more fruit and vegetables; strive for five!
3. Eat two portions of fish every week; one of which should be oily.
4. Choose unsaturated oils and spreads and eat in small amounts.
5. Choose lower fat, lower sugar options where possible.
6. Choose high fat, sugar and/or salty foods and snacks less often and in smaller amounts.
7. Eat breakfast every day.
8. Drink 6-8 cups/glasses of fluid a day.
Further information and support
www.nhs.uk/change4life
www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/
www.bda.uk.com/foodfacts/healthyeatingchildren.pdf
