Eating a healthy and well balanced diet is important for both physical and mental health. Eating well can require planning and finances however will help maintain wellbeing – connecting people with local resources such as Quest Food Exchange can help to mitigate some of these challenges (https://www.questoutreach.org/)
Many diets have been developed, often promoted as a way of losing weight. But research has shown that most fad diets do not work in the long term and some can be harmful. A diet that a variety of fruits and vegetables, unprocessed proteins (beans lentils, nuts, seeds, lean meats poultry, fish, eggs), and whole grains supports health. Variety, balance, and cooking more often is encouraged.
For further information on food and nutrition: https://food-guide.canada.ca
Foods that should be avoided or reduced in your diet should include:
- refined grains, such as white bread, white pasta, and pizza dough containing white flour
- trans fats which can be found in margarine and other processed foods
- foods with added sugars, such as pastries, sodas, and candies
- deli meats, hot dogs, and other processed meats which are high in salt
- processed or packaged foods such as chips
Perhaps asking the individual about their knowledge, values, strengths and challenges regarding healthy eating could provide a basis for developing some smart goals around healthy eating.