The official dietary guidelines in the trainer's guide

Members constantly ask about diet, and the market is full of dramatic claims and miracle cures. Your task as a trainer is to provide guidance on a responsible basis – and that basis is the official dietary guidelines. They are drawn up on a solid scientific foundation and are safe to rely on, because they do not promise quick results, but describe what is generally healthy.

The official Danish dietary guidelines are titled 'good for health and climate' and consist of seven pieces of advice. They are general and aimed at healthy people.

• 01Eat plant-based, varied and not too much.
• 02Eat more vegetables and fruits.
• 03Eat less meat — choose legumes and fish.
• 04Eat food with whole grains.
• 05Choose plant oils and lean dairy products.
• 06Eat less sweet, salty, and fatty.
• 07Switch off the thirst in water.

The advice is a good foundation also for the one who trains. Protein from both plants and animals supports the muscles, whole grains and fruit/vegetables provide energy and satiety, and water is the simple first choice drink – also around training. You don't need an advanced plan to give a member good general nutrition advice; the advice goes far.

The most important message to pass on is that healthy eating is about habits over time not single meals or forbidden foods. A realistic change that lasts — for example more greens and water in everyday life — makes more difference than a strict plan that is abandoned after two weeks. Help the member with one or two concrete steps rather than a total upheaval.

Many members ask about protein powder supplements and popular cures. Be sober about it: a varied diet typically covers needs for most people supplements are rarely necessary for the ordinary exerciser and extreme dietary forms can do more harm than good. Never promise effects you cannot stand by.

Your credibility is built on sticking to what is professionally recognized and being honest about what you do not know. When you refer to official dietary guidelines and know the boundary to dietitian and doctor you protect both the member and your own reputation — and you distinguish yourself from everyone selling shortcuts.