63% of people in the world (and an even higher proportion in western countries) die of chronic diseases such as cancers, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, which are in large part preventable through healthier lifestyle choices. 

Most adults in England are either overweight or obese. That means many of us are eating more than we need, and should eat less. And it's not just food: some drinks can also be high in calories. Most adults need to eat and drink fewer calories in order to lose weight, even if they already eat a balanced diet.

Eating a healthy, balanced diet, together with giving up smoking, increasing physical activity and reducing alcohol consumption, have dramatic potential to improve our health and the quality of our lives.

When it comes to a healthy diet, balance is the key to getting it right. This means eating a wide variety of foods in the right proportions, and consuming the right amount of food and drink to achieve and maintain a healthy body weight.  

A diet based on starchy foods such as potatoes, rice and pasta; with plenty of fruit and vegetables; some protein-rich foods such as meat, fish and lentils; some milk and dairy foods; and not too much fat, salt or sugar, will give you all the nutrients you need and help to maintain a healthy weight. 

Fact Zone