Intake of appropriate types and adequate amounts of foods and drinks to supply nutrition and energy for maintenance of body cells, tissues, and organs, and to support normal growth and development.

A well-balanced diet acts to provide sources of energy and nutrition for optimal growth and development.

Food sources
milk group (milk and milk products)

milk, cheese, yogurt
meat group (meat and meat substitutes)
meat: chicken, fish, beef, pork, lamb
legumes: beans and peas
nuts and seeds
fruit and vegetable group
fruits
vegetables
grain group (breads and cereals)
whole grain breads
enriched breads
rice
pasta

side effects
an unbalanced diet can cause problems with maintenance of body tissues, growth and development, brain and nervous system function, as well as problems with bone and muscle systems.

There are several guidelines available to help a person plan their balanced diet.

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