Some information tools on healthy nutrition have been made available to the public. However, a significant part of the population is still missing out on or ignoring key messages, thereby putting their health at risk.
We have gathered information on some important nutrition weaknesses affecting the average population. You should also take a few minutes to learn about nutrition basics and how to balance your nutrition.
Low-fat diet
To minimize fat intake, people should aim at balancing their daily energy (caloric) intake as follows :
Fat:
- 20% to 35% of daily energy intake (no more than 10% from saturated fats).
- 1 gram of fat contains 9 calories.
- Beware! Fat should not be completely eliminated from your diet.
Carbohydrates:
- 45% to 65% of daily energy intake.
- 1 gram of carbohydrates contains 4 calories.
- Carbohydrates are found in grain products (breads, cereals and pasta), rice, barley and other grains, peas, lentils, fruits and vegetables.
Protein:
- 10% to 35% of daily energy intake.
- 1 gram of protein contains 4 calories.
High-fibre diet
The recommended daily fibre intake is 38 grams for men and 25 grams for women. Over age 50, the recommended daily fibre intake is 30 grams for men and 21 grams for women.
A high-fibre diet is normally described as one providing 30 grams of fibre or more daily.
Source: 2002 ANREF recommendations