Planning Balanced Diets One of the simplest ways to plan a balanced diet is to divide foods into groups and then make sure that each group is included in the meals. A food group consists of different foods which have common characteristics. These common features may be the source of food, the physiological function performed, or the nutrients present. Foods can be grouped on the basis of the predominant nutrients present in them.
This classification varies from one country to another depending on many factors. The five food group classification is used in India as a guide to meal planning. Many factors have been considered while compiling these groups such as availability of food, cost, meal pattern, and deficiency diseases prevalent. Not all foods in each group are equal in their nutrient content.
That is why a variety of foods from each group should be included in the diet. A classification based on nutrients present will ensure that all nutrients are made available to the body and offer greater variety within the group. There are five basic food groups suggested by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). These include: Cereals, grains and products Pulses and legumes Milk and meat products Fruits and vegetables Fats and sugars List foods that you commonly eat.
Identify the food group to which each food belongs. Then list the macronutrients and micronutrients present in the foods listed. Identify the foods which are the richest sources of energy.