Official name

The Seychelles Dietary Guidelines

Publication year

Seychelles published the first version of its dietary guidelines in 2006. 

Process and stakeholders

The Seychelles dietary guidelines were developed by the Nutrition Unit of the Ministry of Health. They have been endorsed by the Government of Seychelles.

Intended audience

The dietary guidelines target healthy individuals aged 2 years and over. They come in the form of posters (the sixteen dietary guidelines and the food guide) and flyers, which are intended for the general public, educators and health professionals. A more detailed informational manual has also been developed to be used by educators, health professionals, social workers, teachers, food caterers, manufacturers and the media as well as policymakers to guide the development of food and nutrition policies.

Food guide

Seychelles’ food guide is a disc displaying five food groups. The size of each segment reflects the proportion each group should contribute to a healthy diet. According to the food guide, fruits and vegetables, and the rice, bread, cereals, pasta and tuber food groups should make up the bulk of the daily diet. Moderate amounts of fish, meat, eggs, fish/meat alternatives and milk products are to be eaten regularly. Fat and sugar rich products are to be eaten in small amounts. In addition, the food guide recommends drinking 8 glasses of water a day.

Messages

• Eat a variety of different foods in the proportion shown in the Seychelles Food Guide.
• Consume at least 5 portions of fruit and vegetables every day.
• Replace rice with wholegrains and other high-fibre starchy foods at least 3 times a week.
• Eat fish on at least 5 days a week.
• Eat pulses (peas, beans and lentils) at least 4 times a week.
• Reduce the amount of cooking oil, fats and fatty foods.
• Remove fats on meat before cooking.
• Limit the frying of foods to only once a week.
• Consume sugar, sugary foods and sugary drinks in minimal amounts.
• Include 3 portions of milk and milk products in your diet every day.
• Use salt and salty foods in small amounts.
• Drink at least 8 glasses of water every day.
• If you drink alcohol do not exceed the recommended amounts.
• Maintain a reasonable body weight by exercising for 30 minutes every day.
• Breastfeed your child exclusively up to 6 months.
• Practice good hygiene when handling food.