LET US CHOOSE THE RIGHT FOOD

We know that food is necessary for life. If we do not eat adequate food, our body will not function properly and we will become prone to diseases. We have also read that we must eat a mixed diet, that is a combination of all types of food. We have studied the different food groups and the foods included in each group. In order to remain healthy, it is essential to consume foods from each group. The concept of food groups helps us decide which food-stuff to include in our diet. This helps to have variety in our diet and also take into account non-availability of certain foods. For example, in winter it may not be possible to eat mangoes as a source of vitamin A. However, a suitable alternative would be carrots. Therefore, it is not only necessary to know the types of food to eat but also to choose the right food. Besides the nutrient content, we have other factors which would help us choose the right food.

Let’s choose the right food 

* Seasonal foods

* Locally available foods

* Inexpensive, quality foods

* Foodstuffs rich in more than one nutrient

* Combination of foods

It is important to eat food, but it is equally important to choose the right food. We must encourage the use of seasonal as well as locally available foods since they are cheaper,  more nutritious and easily available. Food/stuffs which are rich in more than one nutrient should be included in our daily diet. Low cost foods may also be very nutritious and one need not spend money on costly, prestige foods. The nutritional value of our diet may be improved by combining certain foods together.


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