Currently, there is a lot of hype around avoiding whole food groups, like grains or replacing dairy for coconut or almond products. The current Dietary Guidelines are even being blamed for the rise in obesity and diabetes in our population.
However, recent studies reveal that Australians are eating less fruits, vegetables and dairy products than recommended with only 4% of people meeting the recommended 5 serves of vegetables per day. This can have a direct impact on our health, well-being and even performance, with the incidence of obesity and lifestyle diseases in our population increasing.
Avoiding one food or food group is not the answer, as many of the fad diets suggest. There is no particular food or food group that deserves demonising or shaming. A dietary pattern high in unprocessed plant foods, wholegrain carbohydrates and lean protein, and low in highly processed foods and refined sugars, comes out on top for offering the best long term health.
