Healthy eating is important for all of us. Eating a mixture of different foods and being active every day will give you lots of energy and help keep you fit and healthy.
So what is a healthy diet? Here in Ireland we have the food pyramid which contains 5 food groups that are important for different reasons. Choosing the right foods in the right amounts from the food pyramid will help you be at your best on and off the court.
- Aim for 6 + servings from the bread, cereals and potato food group. Base every meal around these foods as they are rich in carbohydrate, your body’s main fuel.
- Choose a wide variety of fruits and vegetables. Try to eat at least 5 servings a day of different fruits and vegetables to help get the vitamins and minerals you need.
- Try to have 3 servings of milk, cheese and yogurt each day – these foods provide calcium for strong bones. Skimmed milk and low fat dairy products are good choices for children over 5.
- Have 2 servings from the meat, fish, eggs & alternatives food group. These foods provide protein which is important for growth.
- Foods and drinks high in fat and/or sugar sit on the top shelf of the pyramid and should be used as treats.
