Thanks to more open discussions about our daily diets, the British have become increasingly aware of the importance of a healthy diet in recent years.
However, a new survey has found that a large proportion of the British population are not well informed about the basic nutritional guidelines they should follow to eat a healthy and balanced diet.
A survey of 2,000 British adults conducted by food delivery service Green Chef found that almost nine in ten (86%) Brits could not correctly name all five food groups.
More than a third (35%) of Brits incorrectly identified ‘minerals’ as one of the five food groups, while almost a quarter (24%) thought nuts and seeds were one of the five food groups.
The survey also found that more than half (53%) of respondents were unaware of their recommended daily calorie intake. Of this group, Britons aged 35 to 44 were the most informed about how many calories they should be consuming per day.
When it comes to water intake, almost half (44%) of Brits do not know what their recommended daily water intake should be.
However, women are much more likely than men to know their recommended daily water intake: 62% of women gave the correct answer, compared to less than half (49%) of men.
Commenting on the results, Lily Keeling, a UK nutritionist, said: “The results of this survey underline that Britons across the country need a dietary refresh.”
“Understanding the basics of nutrition is critical to making healthier choices and promoting overall physical and mental health.
“It is vitally important for Brits to have a general understanding of food groups and other key nutritional areas to ensure their dietary choices meet their body’s needs, giving them the best chance of supporting their overall wellbeing.
“Taking control of our individual intake and helping others to do the same is a step towards a healthier and happier UK.”
How many calories should I consume per day?
According to the NHS, the average man needs 2,500 kcal per day, while the average woman needs 2,000 kcal per day.
This can vary depending on age, weight, height and training intensity.
Calories are crucial because they provide our body with energy to function normally.
You can check the nutrition label on food packages for calorie information and plan your meals if you feel you need to control your calorie intake. Certain restaurants and take-out menus also provide calorie information to help you make healthier choices.
You should eat a balanced diet and get healthy calories from a diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables, starchy foods, protein and unsaturated fats.
How much water should I drink per day?
The Eatwell Guide recommends that adults drink six to eight cups or glasses of fluids a day. This includes water, low-fat milk and sugar-free drinks such as tea and coffee.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, in a hot environment, engaged in long-term physical activity, or are ill or recovering from an illness, you may need to drink more fluids.
You should make sure to drink enough fluids during the day so that your urine is a clear, pale yellow color. If you don’t drink enough fluids, it can lead to dehydration.
What are the five food groups?
According to Eatwell Guide, the five most important food groups you should know are:
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fruit and vegetables
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Potatoes, bread, rice, pasta and other starchy carbohydrates
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Beans, legumes, fish, eggs, meat and other proteins
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Dairy products and alternatives
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Fats
These recommendations apply to most people, regardless of weight, dietary restrictions or preferences, and ethnic background.
A balanced diet consists of eating a variety of foods from each food group. Achieving this balance at each meal can be very difficult, but you shouldn’t stress about it as long as you try to achieve the right balance over a day or even a week, says the NHS.
The NHS advises:
Fruit and vegetables:
Try to eat at least five portions of different types of fruit and vegetables every day. You can choose between fresh, frozen, canned, dried or juiced fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables should make up just over a third of the food we eat every day.
Carbohydrates:
Starchy foods should also make up just over a third of our diet, as they are a good source of energy and the main source of a number of nutrients in our diet. Choose higher-fiber or wholegrain options.
Protein:
Lean cuts of meat and minced meat as well as fish are good sources of protein. You should eat less red and processed meat such as bacon, ham and sausage. Pulses such as beans, peas and lentils are good alternatives to meat.
Dairy:
Milk, cheese, yoghurt and cream cheese are an important source of calcium, protein and some vitamins. If possible, choose products that are low in fat and sugar.
Fat:
Pay attention to unsaturated fats, including vegetable, rapeseed, olive and sunflower oil. These should be consumed in small quantities.
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