Corangamite Shire residents can improve their health and lifestyle with free nutrition sessions coming up in Camperdown.
South West Healthcare Dietitian Brandon Yap will share ideas for a healthy diet depending on your stage of life.
Mr Yap said nutrition is not just about eating salads all the time.
"Food is meant to be enjoyed and having a balanced diet not only brightens our mood but also reduces our risk of undernutrition, irregular blood sugar and cholesterol levels and some cancers as well," he said.
"Food is an essential part of everyone's lives and knowing how to adequately fuel our bodies so that we have enough strength and energy is important so that we are able to carry on doing the things we love. We are still allowed to enjoy the foods we love to eat whilst making sure we are eating adequately.
"As we age, so does our shift in nutritional requirements. Energy and protein become more important as things such as appetite, energy and strength start to change and key nutrients such as energy and protein become more important in our diet.
Mr Yap said dietitians don't just advise on weight loss, but are trained to provide nutritional advice for people living with different conditions.
"Our consults are designed to provide you with achievable and sustainable goals in your nutritional journey whether it's wanting to control your blood sugars, struggling to manage large portions of food or living with other conditions all the while, still incorporating the foods we love to eat!
Corangamite Shire Council Co-ordinator Positive Ageing and Inclusion Belinda Rowbottom said the first session, on Thursday 16 of April, will focus on healthy eating as we age.
"Brandon will talk about nutrition basics, the Australian Guide to Healthy Eating, supplements and the importance of eating for bone health and muscle mass as our metabolism slows down.
"The second session, on Thursday 14 May, will focus on cooking on a budget.
"It will cover cooking for one or two, what to look for on labels when you do the shopping, and bust some diet myths."
Both sessions are at the Camperdown RSL, 14 Pike Street, from 1-2.30 pm.
A free afternoon tea will be provided. Bookings are essential for catering so please call Council's Positive Ageing Access and Inclusion Team on 5593 7100.
