We love food. This is nothing new. But what is fairly new is that we now approach our food intake with more careful consideration. Our deeper understanding of wellness and our desire for healthy bodies and minds means an increased awareness of the quality of the food we consume. Healthy Eating Week promotes healthy eating habits and raises awareness of how we really are what we eat.
This interest in the impact of food on our bodies and minds is a global trend, and we don’t simply mean amongst those of us lucky enough to work in the food industry. In recent years millions of people have started to take an interest in what they’re eating, where it’s come from and how it will affect their health. We now understand that we can’t simply indulge and indulge and indulge without suffering the consequences. This is why Healthy Eating Week is so important. The UK-wide campaign takes place in the second week of June every year, giving us all the opportunity to learn about the importance of eating a balanced and nutritious diet.
We know we need to consume a range of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals to maintain our health, but with such hectic lifestyles, many of us tend to eat on the go. We live in a world where convenience trumps nutritional value, so how can we combat our bad habits and switch up fast foods for nutritious (and delicious) fare?
The benefits of reducing the amount of junk food in our diets are endless. In processed foods calories are sky high, as is sugar, salt and saturated fat – all major contributors to weight gain and heart disease. But when life is busy, it’s not so easy to make changes that we can maintain. How can we introduce more fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lean protein, at home and on the road?
Healthy Eating Week is a great place to start. Thousands of schools and workplaces across the country are getting involved by hosting activities and events that promote healthy eating. From workshops on nutrition to food fairs and interactive cooking demos, there are so many ways to get involved.
The facts about fruit & veg
Our body needs certain nutrients to function properly and to get us through the day. Our energy levels, our mood, skin and hair and of course our immune systems are directly impacted by the quality of the food we eat. Healthy Eating Week encourages us to consume more fruit and vegetables, rich in essential vitamins and minerals, as well as antioxidants and fibre that help fight infections and protect against diseases.
The power of H20
Can plain old water really have such a big impact on our body? Yes it can. Not drinking enough water leads to poor concentration, fatigue and headaches, as well as dry skin and digestive problems. Good hydration also flushes toxins from the body.
Get active
As well as promoting good eating habits, Healthy Eating Week also encourages people to be more active. Regular physical activity is essential for maintaining a healthy weight, reducing the risk of chronic disease, and improving overall wellbeing. People are encouraged to aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity every day. If you don’t enjoy the gym or other formal exercise, get out to the park for some brisk walking, cycling, or swimming.
Let’s explore the opportunities that Healthy Eating Week offers. Together we can do this!