What and how we eat has a direct and significant impact on our body’s physiology and biochemistry. We need all types of nutrients – proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals – for survival and good health.

We also know:

• Some fats are better than others. Saturated fats such as cheese, cream, milk, meat and coconut cream are at the bottom of the food chain when it comes to what’s good for us (that means, have them only in moderation).
• Unsaturated fats are better for our health, and include monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. The first is found in avocado, olive and canola oils; the second in oils and margarines made from nuts (such as peanut), beans (such as soya) and seeds (such as safflower and sunflower).
• Complex carbohydrates, e.g. wholegrain bread, are better than simple ones, e.g. white bread.
• Smaller, more frequent meals are better than large meals, to keep glucose levels stable.
• We all need to cut back on saturated fats and sugars.
• We can boost our health by eating raw and unprocessed food.
• It’s best to eat as many different colours in our food as we can.

These are broad guidelines, but aiming to eat healthy food most of the time will pay dividends for your general health and wellbeing.