On food labels the term Guideline Daily Amounts and GDA’s may be stated, but what do they mean? Guideline Daily Amounts are a guide to the total amount of energy and nutrients that a typical healthy adult should be eating in a day. Energy and the four most important nutrients that may cause risk of disease are the main focus GDA’S listed. These useful GDA’s help people to make informed choices to contribute to achieving an overall balanced diet.
Recent media headlines claim that three servings of fruit and veg is enough to live longer. Should we forget about current recommendations for five portions a day?
Dietary Reference Values (DRVs) are important for supporting public health, developing labelling laws and identifying populations at risk of over- or under-consumption. However, the process of developing them is complex, and they should not be viewed as recommendations or goals for individuals.
With changing economic circumstances, it is particularly important that changes in health status and behaviours continue to be monitored.
The European Food Safety Authority has provided guidance on optimum intakes of fats, carbohydrates, fibre and water for good health considering new evidence.
Many people choose to exclude meat and other animal products from their diet for a variety of reasons and to varying extents. Careful planning is needed to ensure adequate nutrient intakes.
What is the contribution of nutrition to a long and healthy life? It is the way foods (and nutrients) are combined to make up the whole diet that is important.
Nutrient information available is not well understood by consumers. It is necessary to provide nutrient advice in a way consumers can understand.
Making smart food choices early in life, with a routine of good food and regular exercise, can help us make the most of what life has to offer.
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