The importance of healthy eating has become increasingly prominent among Brits in recent years, thanks to more open conversations about what we eat on a daily basis.
However, new research has revealed that the majority of UK people are poorly informed about the basic nutritional guidelines they should follow to maintain a healthy, balanced diet.
Survey of 2,000 UK adults by food delivery company Green Chef It found that nine in ten Brits (86%) could not correctly identify all five food groups.
More than a third (35%) of Brits incorrectly identified “minerals” as one of the five food groups, and almost a quarter (24%) thought nuts and seeds were one of the five food groups.
The survey also revealed that more than half (53%) of respondents did not know their recommended daily calorie intake – and of this group, British people aged 35 to 44 were the most knowledgeable about how many calories they should eat per day.
When it comes to fluid intake, nearly half (44%) of Brits don’t know the recommended amount to drink each day.
However, women were significantly more likely than men to know the recommended daily fluid intake: 62% of women answered correctly compared to less than half (49%) of men.
Commenting on the survey findings, UK registered dietitian Lily Keeling said: “The results highlight the need for a nutritional refresher for people across the UK.”
“Understanding the basics of nutrition is crucial to making healthier choices and promoting overall wellbeing.
“It’s vital for Brits to have a general understanding of food groups and other key nutritional areas to ensure their dietary choices have the best chance of meeting their body’s needs and supporting their overall health.”
“Taking control of our personal intake and helping others to do the same is one step towards a healthier and happier Britain.”
How many calories should I consume per day?
The NHS The average man needs 2,500 kcal per day and the average woman needs 2,000 kcal per day.
This depends on your age, weight, height and how much exercise you do.
Calories are very important because our body gets energy from them in order to function properly.
You can check the nutrition facts label on food packaging for calorie information and plan your meals if you feel you need to control your calorie intake. Some restaurant and takeaway menus also provide calorie information to help you make healthier choices.
Eat a balanced diet and get healthy calories from foods that are rich in fruits, vegetables, starchy foods, protein and unsaturated fats.
How much water should I drink per day?
Recommended by Eatwell Guide Adults should aim to drink 6 to 8 glasses of fluids per day. Fluids include water, low-fat milk and unsweetened beverages like tea and coffee.
You may need to drink more fluids if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, in hot environments, during long periods of physical activity, or if you are sick or recovering from an illness.
Make sure you drink enough fluids during the day so your urine is clear and pale yellow. Not drinking enough fluids can lead to dehydration.
What are the 5 Food Groups?
According to the Eatwell Guide, the five main food groups you should know about are:
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Fruits and vegetables
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Potatoes, bread, rice, pasta and other starchy carbohydrates
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Beans, legumes, fish, eggs, meat and other proteins
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Dairy and alternatives
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fat
These recommendations apply to most people, regardless of weight, dietary restrictions or preferences, or ethnic origin.
A balanced diet means eating a variety of foods from each food group. Achieving this balance at every meal can be very difficult, but as long as you make an effort to get the right balance over the course of a day and week, there’s no need to stress, says the NHS.
The NHS advises:
Fruits and vegetables:
Aim to eat at least five servings of a variety of fruits and vegetables each day – fresh, frozen, canned, dried and juiced. Fruits and vegetables should make up just over one-third of the food we eat each day.
carbohydrates:
Starchy foods are a good source of energy and a major source of many nutrients in the diet, so they should make up just over one-third of the food we eat. Choose foods that are high in fiber and whole grains.
protein:
Lean meat, minced meat and fish are good sources of protein. Avoid red and processed meats such as bacon, ham and sausages. Legumes such as beans, peas and lentils are good meat alternatives.
Dairy:
Milk, cheese, yogurt and fromage frais are important sources of calcium, protein and some vitamins. Whenever possible, choose low-fat, low-sugar products.
fat:
Consume unsaturated fats such as vegetable oils, rapeseed oil, olive oil and sunflower oil, but in small amounts.
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