How to build a balanced plate

Having a balanced plate essentially means eating a balanced diet. It's an important part of maintaining good health and can help you feel your best.

Balanced diets aren't just about eating your greens. It means eating a wide variety of foods in the right proportions and consuming the right amount of food and drink to achieve and maintain a healthy body.

Let's break it down:

• ½ Vegetables/Fruits: Prioritise vegetables like broccoli, greens, and peppers (a variety of colours makes your plate look very appetising!)
• ¼ Protein: Chicken, fish, eggs, beans, lentils, or tofu will support muscle health and fullness.
• ¼ Whole Grains: Use wholemeal pasta, brown rice, quinoa, or potatoes (with skin for fibre) to provide lasting energy.
• Healthy fats: Use small amounts of olive oil, rapeseed oil or avocado oil to cook.
• Drink: Water and fruit teas can help you eat a balanced plate, especially during meals, as carbonated drinks can make you feel fuller rather than the food itself.

Eating a balanced diet has so many benefits. It can help you stay more focused during your studies, help you sleep better, increase your energy and have a positive impact on your mental and physical health.