Nutrition and physical activity

Nutrition

The Danish Health Authority provides dietary guidance for infants and toddlers and disseminates dietary knowledge to the sick and elderly with special needs.

Our guidance in the field of nutrition is aimed at specific groups with special nutritional needs. We provide recommendations and guidelines for health professionals and for institutions that prepare food and meals for larger groups – for example in daycare, hospitals and nursing homes.

We collaborate closely with the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration, which is behind the official dietary recommendations and the ‘smiley’ inspection of cafes, restaurants and supermarkets. 

Physical activity

The Danish Health Authority works to promote physical activity by providing guidance to the public as well as health professionals.

We collaborate with other national stakeholders and represent Denmark in international networks such as Health Enhancing Physical Activity (HEPA) and WHO.

Physical activity has significant health benefits for hearts, bodies and minds.

Moderate-intensity physical activity

Requires a moderate amount of effort and noticeably accelerates the heart rate, for example cycling, brisk walking, dancing, gardening and domestic chores. 

Vigorous-intensity physical exercise

Requires a large amount of effort and causes rapid breathing and a substantial increase in heart rate, for example fast cycling and fast swimming, running, aerobics, and competitive sports such as football and basketball.