A month of healthy eating

Give your body a boost of nutritionally rich food from fresh fruit and veg, lean protein, healthy fats, dairy, wholegrains and fibre

When we created this summer action plan, we wanted it to be easy to follow and practical which is what a lot of us need after Christmas. After a month eating this way, you’ll feel full of energy and you’ll probably see some weight loss. Most people want to improve their health and often all they need to do is make simple changes to their diet.

This plan is well balanced, so none of the major food groups have been left out, giving your body a boost of nutritionally rich food from fresh fruit and veg, lean protein, healthy fats, dairy, wholegrains and fibre.

The focus is on low-GI (Glycaemic Index) eating, so you get enough of the right kind of carbs, balanced with lean sources of protein in every meal and snack. This helps to stabilise energy and blood glucose levels, keeping you feeling fuller for longer, and avoids the craving for mid-afternoon processed snacks.

The plan is packed with foods rich in vital vitamins – such as the B group and the mineral chromium, which can be beneficial in helping manage BGLs. It also includes essential fats, such as the omega-3 variety found in oily fish, seeds and nuts, which are great for heart health and reducing blood cholesterol levels.

Our weekly menu plan (page 78) includes seven portions of fruit and veg each day, lots of meat-free options, plenty of wholegrains, nuts and seeds, and at least two serves of fish each week.

Here’s to summer!