IELTS Listening Test – Section 2 #5

IELTS Listening Test: Section 2

Nutrition and Healthy Eating 

Speaker:

Good morning, everyone. Today, I’m going to give you some tips on nutrition and healthy eating. Whether you're trying to improve your health, lose weight, or just eat better, it all starts with understanding what good nutrition is.

Let’s begin with the basics. A healthy diet should provide the right balance of nutrients, such as carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Carbohydrates, for example, are essential because they provide energy, but it’s important to choose the right type. Opt for whole grains like oats, brown rice, and whole wheat bread instead of refined grains like white bread and pasta, which can cause a quick spike in blood sugar.

Now, protein is another essential nutrient, and you can get it from both animal and plant sources. Lean meats, fish, and eggs are great sources, but if you're vegetarian or vegan, lentils, chickpeas, and tofu are excellent alternatives.

Next, let’s talk about fats. Not all fats are bad for you. Unsaturated fats, which are found in foods like olive oil, avocados, and nuts, are actually beneficial for heart health. However, it’s wise to limit saturated fats, which are often found in butter, cheese, and processed foods.

Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables is also important. Aim for at least five portions a day. These are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which can help improve digestion and lower the risk of chronic diseases. It’s also recommended to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Dehydration can lead to fatigue and headaches, so make sure you’re staying hydrated.

Now, portion control is another key aspect of healthy eating. Even healthy foods, when eaten in large quantities, can lead to weight gain. Use smaller plates, take your time when eating, and listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues.

Lastly, don’t forget about meal planning. Planning your meals ahead of time can help ensure you’re getting the nutrients you need and help you avoid unhealthy options. Preparing meals at home can give you control over what you're eating and save you money.

That’s all for today’s talk on nutrition and healthy eating. I hope these tips help you make better food choices in the future. Thank you!

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Questions:

Questions 1-3

Choose THREE letters, A–F.

Which THREE of the following are mentioned as good sources of protein?

A. Cheese

B. Eggs

C. Lentils

D. Butter

E. Fish

F. Tofu

Questions 4-5

Complete the sentences below. Write NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS for each answer.

4. Refined grains such as white bread and pasta cause a rapid rise in _______.

5. At least _______ portions of fruits and vegetables should be eaten daily.

Questions 6-8

Label the diagram below. Write the correct letter, A–F, next to questions 6–8.

Diagram of a plate showing different food groups.

A. Whole grains

B. Processed foods

C. Lean meats

D. Fruits and vegetables

E. Sugary snacks

F. Unsaturated fats

6. ___________________________________________________________________

7. ___________________________________________________________________

8. ___________________________________________________________________

Questions 9-10

Answer the following questions. Write NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS for each answer.

9. What is the recommended type of fats for heart health?
10. What should you drink plenty of to avoid fatigue and headaches?

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Answers:

Questions 1-3:

B, C, E

Questions 4-5:

4. blood sugar

5. five

Questions 6-8:

6. A

7. D

8. F

Questions 9-10:

9. Unsaturated fats

10. Water