Eating well

What you eat, and how much, is important for your health.

Eating well means having a wide variety of foods in the right amounts. The key recommendations for eating well are to:

aim for at least 5 portions of fruit and veg each day
choose more wholegrain or higher fibre options
swap red and processed meats for chicken, fish, beans and pulses
have foods high in fat, salt and sugar occasionally

Find out more about healthy eating recommendations.

Please note that this page covers healthy eating advice for the general population. For those with special dietary requirements, medical needs, eating disorders or those who require specialised nutrition advice please seek guidance from a healthcare professional.

How we can help

If you're struggling to achieve a healthy weight, Public Health Northamptonshire will fund a 12 week course to support you to reach your weight-loss goals.

Check your eligibility and apply

Top tips to help you eat well

Check the labels

Nutrition labels can help you choose between products and keep a check on the amount of foods you're eating that are high in fat, salt and added sugars.

Cook at home more

We all like to eat out sometimes but by preparing more foods at home you can control what goes into your meals - and its often much cheaper.

Try simple food swaps

Eating well can start with small changes - why not try swapping sugar on your breakfast for dried fruit, or swapping white bread for wholemeal. Find food swaps for kids.

Use vegetables to bulk out meals

A good way of making meals go further is to use vegetables to bulk out meals e.g. adding mushrooms and peppers to chilli or spaghetti bolognaise.

Don't skip breakfast

A healthy breakfast high in fibre and low in fat, sugar and salt can form part of a balanced diet, and can help you get the nutrients you need for good health.

Concerned about your risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes?

You can check out your risk and access a range of support services on the NHS website:

The National Diabetes Prevention Programme operates in Northamptonshire, and your GP can refer you to the programme if they feel it is appropriate for you.