As a carer, eating a balanced diet is essential to provide your body with all the nutrients it needs. A balanced diet will keep your body strong and give you enough energy to care for both your VIP and yourself.
Based on the eat well plate you should try to eat:
- Plenty of starchy food
Bread, breakfast cereals, potatoes and pasta are a good source of energy. Always choose wholegrain varieties where you can. - Plenty of fruit and vegetables
Aim for five portions a day to provide you with a good source of vitamins and minerals. 1 portion is equivalent to: 1 apple, 1 medium banana, 7 strawberries, 1 handful of grapes, 150ml glass of unsweetened orange juice, dessert bowl of salad, 3 heaped tablespoons of mixed vegetables. - Some protein
Meat, fish, eggs, beans are a good source of protein. - Some milk and dairy foods
Cheese, yogurt or choose low-fat options if trying to reduce fat in your diet. - Limit the amount of foods high in fat or sugar
Such as crisps, chocolate, sweets.
It may be that you are on a reduced income and this can make it very difficult to eat well especially if you favour a diet that is high in fresh fruits and vegetables.
Tips for eating well on a budget
- se supermarket own brands
- shop later in the evening when supermarkets often reduce the price of vegetables, bread etc that have reached their sell by date
- Dried, frozen or canned fruit (in juice) and vegetables can be cheaper than fresh varieties but just as healthy.
- When you buy fresh fruit and vegetables, it can be cheaper to buy them loose rather than pre-packaged.
- When making meals, prepare larger quantities and freeze the extra portions.