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The 7 essentials of a balanced diet are:

1. Carbohydrates - These are energy foods and are found in foods made from plants. These include:
   • Sugar: - chocolate, candy
   • Starch: - potatoes, bread, pasta, rice


2. Proteins - These are growth foods. Without them the body would not be able to grow or repair damaged tissue. Foods that contain proteins include: meat, fish, egg and milk.


3. Fats - These are also energy foods and are used both as a fuel and as a storage for reserve fuel. It also provides good insulation against the cold. Foods that contain fat include butter and potato. Too much fat is not good for us because it causes obesity, high cholesterol and heart disease.


4. Vitamins - These are vitally important as they help in many of the chemical reactions that take place in our bodies. Without them we would suffer serious illnesses. E.g. lack of Vitamin C causes scurvy (poor healing of wounds) and can be avoided by eating oranges, lemon and lime.


5. Minerals - These are not foods but substances that help certain parts of our bodies to grow. eg. calcium salts. These are important in strengthening our bones and teeth. Calcium is found in milk.


6. Fibre - Fibre is also known as rouphage and is not digestible. It helps our guts to function properly. Foods that contain a lot of fibre include: cereals, fruits and vegetables and bread (wholemeal).


7. Water - Our bodies are about 65% water and so it is vitally important for our cells to function properly. Without it we would die.

How can you remember them?

Simply use the following acronym: Clever Parrots Fly Very Majestically For Water

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