What are the food groups?
Carbohydrates - e.g. bread, pasta, rice, potatoes, cereal
Carbohydrates are an important source of vitamins and iron. They contain sugars that give us energy. Some carbohydrates, such as wholegrain cereal, give us fibre to keep our digestive systems working properly. Potatoes are not classed as vegetables but as a carbohydrate because they contain a lot of starch.
Fruits and Vegetables - e.g. onions, lettuce, carrots, bananas, oranges, berries
Fruits and vegetables are low in fat and contain natural sugars to give you energy. They contain lots of different vitamins, minerals and antioxidants to keep you healthy. You should eat a wide range of fruit and vegetables, and aim to eat at least five portions a day.
Protein - e.g. beans, pulses, meat, fish, eggs, nuts
Protein helps the body to repair itself and to grow. Foods such as meat and fish also provide iron and minerals. It is important for vegetarians to ensure they get enough protein by replacing meat and fish with eggs, pulses and soya, which are good alternatives.
Dairy products - e.g. milk, cheese, yoghurt, cream, soya drinks
Dairy products contain lots of calcium which is essential for keeping your bones strong. It also helps to keep your teeth healthy. Dairy products also have some vitamins in and some contain proteins.
Oils and Spreads - e.g. vegetable oil, olive oil, sunflower oil, margarine
We should only have a very small amount of oils and spreads in our diet. Unsaturated fats are healthier and include vegetable, rapeseed, olive and sunflower oils.
Fats and sugars are necessary in a diet but in very small amounts. You can usually get the fats and sugars you need from other food groups. Junk food like crisps, sweets, cakes and chocolate might taste nice but they don't have many nutrients in them to help the body and too many can be very unhealthy.