DefinitionA balanced diet means getting the right types and amounts of foods and drinks to supply nutrition and energy for maintaining body cells, tissues, and organs, and for supporting normal growth and development.Alternative NamesWell-balanced dietFunctionA well-balanced diet provides enough energy and nutrition for optimal growth and development.Food SourcesMilk group (dairy products)Cheese: fat-free or reduced-fat (1%)Milk or buttermilk: fat-free (skim) or low-fat (1%)Yogurt: fat-free or low-fat, regular or frozenMeat and beans groupLegumes (including beans, lentils, peas, and split peas)Meat (beef, ****, poultry with skin removed, game meats, fish, shellfish): select lean cuts; trim away visible fat; broil, roast, or poachNuts and seeds (including almonds, hazelnuts, mixed nuts, pea