Health experts warn that overeating and an imbalanced diet (especially one that is high in fat) can be extremely harmful to our health. Coupled with an unhealthy lifestyle (lack of exercise, excessive stress, smoking and alcohol abuse), unhealthy eating habits can lead to obesity, heart disease, stroke, diabetes and many other diseases. Prevent this from happening to you or your family members by practicing healthy eating habits today.

1) Eat according to your needs

Eat to get sufficient energy for your daily activities. Overeating will give you excessive calories which will be converted into body fat, thus making your fat and possibly obese. Conversely, skipping meals is also not healthy as the forced hunger can lead to a tendency to overeat later. Eat the right amounts and you will not only look better but also feel batter, as a result.

2) Maintain a well-balanced diet

Experts recommend that we should all eat according to the Food Pyramid. Consume all the food groups that are shown in the pyramid because our bodies need them to function properly. The pyramid also serves as a guide as to the proportions in which we should consume the different food groups. Basically, we are encouraged to eat most of those groups at the bottom of the pyramid, and least from the top.

Bread, cereals, rice and pastas - All these provide complex carbohydrates that give off valuable energy for the body. They are also rich in fiber which helps ensure regularity.

Fruits and vegetables - These are a rich source of vitamins, minerals and fiber, while being low in fat and sodium. Insist that your children eat plenty of fruits and vegetables.

Dairy products, meats, eggs, legumes and nuts - These products are an important source of protein, calcium, iron and zinc.

Fats, oils and sweats - Consume only minimum as these can lead to obesity, diabetes and heart disease.