The Ministry of Health encourages citizens to apply the 4-5-1 nutritional formula to their daily meals, combined with enhanced physical activity and personal hygiene, so that each individual serves as a robust "steel shield" in the national effort to combat COVID-19.
This is part of a series of activities under the communication campaign "Belief in Victory" launched by the Ministry of Health to raise public awareness and facilitate effective epidemic prevention and control in the new normal, ensuring both efficient disease containment and economic recovery and development.
Accordingly, maintaining a complete, rational nutritional regimen and building a healthy lifestyle fosters health-beneficial habits, enhances resistance, and promotes good health to prevent and combat diseases.
Specifically, the Ministry of Health recommends that the public apply the 4-5-1 nutritional formula developed by the National Institute of Nutrition. The number 4 represents a diet balanced across four key factors: balance among the three energy-yielding nutrient groups; balance in protein (between animal and plant sources); balance in lipid (between animal and plant fats); and balance in vitamins and minerals.
Source: Ministry of Health
Therefore, to achieve a balance among the three energy-yielding nutrient groups, daily dietary intake must consist of 13–20% proteins, 20–25% lipids, and 55–65% carbohydrates.
The number 5 in this formula signifies that, to ensure dietary diversity, meals must include at least 5 out of 8 food groups. These groups comprise: Staple foods (rice, noodles), which serve as basic nourishment and the primary source of energy for the body.
The legume group (beans, peas, sesame, peanuts, etc.), which provides plant-based protein; and the dairy and dairy products group, which is an important source of animal protein and calcium for the body.
Various meats, fish, and seafood. This group supplies animal protein, particularly essential amino acids that the human body cannot synthesize on its own; eggs and egg products serve as a source of animal protein and numerous valuable nutrients.
Yellow, orange, and red root vegetables and fruits (carrots, pumpkins, gac fruit, tomatoes) or dark green leafy vegetables, which are the primary sources of vitamins and minerals. The darker the vegetable, the higher its nutritional value.
Other fruits and vegetables (kohlrabi, radishes, etc.) provide vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. Finally, cooking oils and various animal fats supply energy and essential fatty acids for the body.
Aside from a rational nutritional regimen, experts note that regular physical activity at home also helps prevent diseases effectively, especially amidst the current epidemic context. Source: Ministry of Health
Finally, the number 1 represents harmony among nutrient groups and food items within a single meal or daily nutrition. Accordingly, the 4-5-1 nutritional formula demonstrates that every meal must ensure diversity and balance, avoiding extreme dietary restrictions or the overconsumption of any single food item.
In addition to applying the aforementioned formula, experts also recommend paying close attention to selecting safe foods, encompassing both fresh and processed products. When choosing processed foods, nutritionists advise selecting items with clear origins and fully disclosed quality certifications.
Consumers should carefully read information regarding the nutritional value of foods on packaging, ingredient lists, and expiration dates. Food products must undergo a transparent production process that meets food safety and hygiene standards, and individuals should avoid excessive stockpiling to ensure the continuous consumption of fresh products.
Source: https://giadinh.net.vn/song-khoe/che-do-dinh-duong-4-5-1-ma-bo-y-te-khuyen-cao-de-phong-covid-19-co-gi-dac-biet-20200813175510626.htm