What is a common characteristic of a healthy diet?

A common characteristic of a healthy diet is that it is balanced with a variety of food groups. This means that a nutritious eating pattern includes a wide range of foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Such a balance helps to ensure that an individual receives essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants, which are crucial for overall health.

Having diverse food groups in the diet also enhances meal satisfaction and can improve the body's ability to manage various physiological functions. Diversity in food intake supports not just nutritional health but also psychological well-being, as it can make meals more enjoyable. This approach contrasts sharply with diets that are overly high in processed foods, low in fruits and vegetables, or high in added sugars, which can lead to health issues such as obesity, heart disease, and diabetes.