A balanced diet is one that fulfills all of a person's nutritional needs by including a variety of foods from five main groups: fruits, vegetables, grains, protein, and dairy. It usually involves eating half the plate as fruits and vegetables, and the other half split between grains and protein, with an additional serving of low-fat dairy or its alternatives. A balanced diet provides all essential nutrients—vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats—without exceeding daily calorie needs and helps maintain a healthy weight and reduce disease risk.

Key Components of a Balanced Diet

• Fruits and Vegetables: Make up about half of the daily food intake, offering vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.
• Grains: Preferably whole grains, for carbohydrates and fiber.
• Protein: From sources like lean meats, fish, eggs, beans, nuts, legumes, or plant-based alternatives.
• Dairy: Low-fat options or fortified alternatives to provide calcium and other nutrients.
• Healthy Fats: Present in moderation from sources like nuts, seeds, and oils.

Foods to Limit

• Highly processed foods
• Refined grains
• Added sugars and salt
• Excessive red and processed meats
• Alcohol and trans fats

Drinking plenty of water is also essential to staying healthy. The exact amounts and proportions can vary by individual factors such as activity level, age, sex, and health status.

Thus, a balanced diet is about variety, moderation, and choosing nutrient-rich whole foods to meet all nutritional requirements for good health.