- Home
- About Cancer
- Living well
- Nutrition and cancer
- The importance of eating well
- General guidelines for healthy eating
General guidelines for healthy eating
The Australian Dietary Guidelines set out 5 key recommendations for adults. People with cancer may need to be more flexible about their food choices and ask their doctor about breastfeeding.
Five key recommendations for healthy eating
| |
| |
| |
| |
|
Foods to limit
Use small amounts of fats such as butter and cooking oils. Choose varieties that are low in saturated and trans fats. | |
If you choose to eat fast food, processed meats and sweets and drink alcohol, only have them sometimes and in small amounts. |
Healthy eating from five food groups
This diagram is based on the NHMRC’s Australian Guide to Healthy Eating diagram. Aim to eat a wide variety of foods from the 5 food groups and drink plenty of water.
→ READ MORE: How to eat well after a cancer diagnosis
More resources
Jacqueline Baker, Senior Oncology Dietitian, Chris O’Brien Lifehouse, NSW; Lauren Atkins, Advanced Accredited Practising Dietitian, OnCore Nutrition, VIC; Dr Tsien Fua, Head and Neck Radiation Oncology Specialist, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, VIC; Rosemerry Hodgkin, 13 11 20 Consultant, Cancer Council WA; Clare Hughes, Manager, Nutrition Unit, Cancer Council NSW; John Spurr, Consumer; Emma Vale, Senior Dietitian, GenesisCare, SA; David Wood, Consumer.
View the Cancer Council NSW editorial policy.
View all publications or call 13 11 20 for free printed copies.
Need to talk?
Support services
Exercise and cancer
Exercise has many benefits both during and after cancer treatment, helping with side effects, speeding up recovery, and improving quality of life
Need legal and financial assistance?
Pro bono services, financial and legal assistance, and no interest loans
Cancer information
What is cancer?
How cancer starts and spreads
Relaxation and meditation
Learn how relaxation and meditation can help you both during and after cancer treatment, or listen to our relaxation and meditation podcast