The quality and amount of carbohydrates matter more than eliminating them.
Whole grains, pulses, fruit and vegetables supply fibre and nutrients. For most people, limiting sugary drinks, sweets and highly processed carbohydrates makes more sense than eliminating all carbohydrates. Restrictive diets in people with underlying conditions are best planned with a specialist.
Medical principle
A healthy diet relies on variety, balance, moderation and minimally processed foods, rather than a miracle food or eliminating an entire food group. Energy and fluid needs vary with age, activity, weather and underlying illness.
Practical steps that may help
- Base weekly shopping on vegetables, whole fruit, pulses, whole grains and lean protein sources.
- Compare sodium and added-sugar labels, and avoid making sugary drinks an everyday choice.
- Prefer small, sustainable changes to strict short-term diets.
When should you seek medical care?
Unintentional weight change, difficulty swallowing, repeated vomiting, severe weakness or restrictive diets during pregnancy or with diabetes, heart or kidney disease should be discussed with a doctor or dietitian.
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