10 simple tips for eating a balanced diet every day

Eating a balanced diet is essential for good health, energy and the prevention of many illnesses. But between temptations, lack of time and preconceived ideas, it's not always easy to find your way around. Here are 10 practical, easy-to-apply tips for adopting a healthy, sustainable diet (without saying goodbye to chocolate!).

1. Favour raw, unprocessed foods

Ultra-processed foods often contain too much sugar, saturated fat and additives. Prefer fresh, raw produce: fruit, vegetables, wholegrain cereals, legumes and lean meats.

2. Adopt the 50/25/25 rule

On your plate, try to respect this distribution:

• 50% vegetables,
• 25% protein (meat, fish, eggs, legumes, tofu),
• 25% starches (brown rice, quinoa, sweet potatoes, brown bread, etc.).

In short, your plate should be as colorful as a rainbow! 🌈

3. Don't skip meals

Skipping meals can lead to cravings and snacking. Take the time to eat at regular times to better regulate your appetite and energy, and avoid gobbling up a whole packet of cakes at 4pm.

4. Keep sufficiently hydrated

Water is essential for the body to function properly. Try to drink at least 1.5 to 2 liters of water a day, and limit sugary or alcoholic beverages.

5. Listen to your hunger and satiety

Learn to recognize your body's signals. Eat when you're hungry and stop when you're full, even if there's food left on your plate.

6. Prepare your meals in advance

With meal prep, you can avoid industrial dishes and have greater control over the ingredients in your meals. Cook in large quantities and freeze your meals to save time. What's more, it avoids the famous "What's for dinner tonight?" followed by 30 minutes of hesitation in front of an empty fridge.

7. Choose good fats

Lipids are essential to your health, but you need to choose them carefully. Choose olive oil, rapeseed oil, oilseeds (almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts) and oily fish rich in omega-3.

8. Limit added sugars

Sugar is present in many industrial foods. Reduce your intake by avoiding sodas, industrial cakes and flavored yogurts. Choose fruit and natural alternatives such as honey or maple syrup in small quantities.

9. Vary your diet

To avoid deficiencies and benefit from a maximum of nutrients, vary your sources of protein, vegetables, starchy foods and good fats. Colorful eating is a good indicator of nutritional diversity!

10. Treat yourself without feeling guilty

Eating a balanced diet doesn't mean depriving yourself. Allow yourself occasional pleasures: a slice of pizza, a gourmet dessert or a meal in a restaurant won't jeopardize your good habits if you eat healthily every day. The important thing is balance... and not to eat the whole chocolate bar in one go (even if it is tempting).

Adopting a balanced diet is a question of habits and common sense. By following these simple tips, you can improve your health and well-being without frustration. So, are you ready to fill up on good habits without saying goodbye to gourmet pleasures?

By Candice Lhomme