National Nutrition Week 2000
16 October, 2000
National Nutrition Week 2000 (15-21 October) is a chance for all Australians to recognise the diversity of foods available throughout the country and join in the theme of Celebrating Australian Foods.
Nutrition Australia is encouraging Australians to celebrate our nation’s food this week and on World Food Day (16 October) by trying a new recipe and learning about healthy food choices.
Research has shown that eating a range of different, healthy foods leads to improved well-being and a reduced chance of developing heart disease or diabetes. Nutrition Australia recommends Australians eat between 20 and 30 different kinds of individual foods every day from food types such as fruit, vegetables, cereals, meat, fish and dairy products. For example, a meal of meat and two vegetables would offer only 3 kinds of foods. Cooking the meat with a range of herbs and serving it with a vegetable stirfry accompanied by rice or couscous would incorporate 7 or 8 kinds of foods.
This variety should deliver the right amounts of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants necessary for good health, and reduce the need for dietary supplements. The variety can be achieved easily by aiming to incorporate new foods into your diet every day on a long-term basis.
Combining this dietary intake with 30 minutes of daily exercise will go a long way to improving your health and vitality.
Nutrition Week 2000 is a great chance to recognise the freshness and quality of Australian produce and ingredients and sample the multicultural influences that have combined to create an individual Australian cuisine.
Last Reviewed: 16 October 2000
