What does a balanced diet look like?
A healthy diet is one that includes a balance of all the food groups including carbohydrates, fruits and vegetables, protein rich foods and calcium rich foods. A balanced diet will help you to get all the essential nutrients, vitamins and minerals your body needs to help you with your health and wellbeing.
Some useful resources can be found here;
BDA fact sheet – Healthy Eating
What is an ideal weight?
Body Mass Intake (BMI) is used to estimate a healthy weight. This is based on your current weight (kg) and your height (m2). An ideal BMI is estimated between 18.5-24.9kg/m2. You can check your BMI here.
If you are overweight this can put you at a higher risk of complications therefore it is important to try and have a healthy diet before surgery and maintain your weight.
Good nutrition is just as important after surgery therefore the habits you develop now, will support a healthier lifestyle after surgery.
If you are overweight e.g. your BMI is over 24.9 kg/m2, and you are motivated to lose weight, you can access the free NHS weight loss plan here.
If you are overweight, e.g. your BMI is over 24.9kg/m2 but you have any concerns regarding reducing your weight, speak with your specialist nurse who can refer you to the dietitian for further advice/support.
You can watch the Eatwell Guide video for more information
