Good nutrition means consumption of a diet that consists of healthy foods that the body needs, and refraining from items that are harmful to the body.
Different foods have different nutrients necessary for the body to function at its optimum level. There are foods like whole grains, lean meats, dairy, and fruits and vegetables that provide carbohydrates, proteins, lean fats, vitamins and minerals that the body needs. Severe lack of any of these nutrients could lead to serious defects occurring in the body that could eventually prove fatal.
The food items that are harmful for the human body are excessive sodium, sugar, full-fat dairy, and trans fat oils. Also unhealthy or even harmful are any sort of canned or processed foods and artificial ingredients such as preservatives, colors and flavorings. Though foods containing these ingredients look and taste good, many of them, in fact, create additional craving for food and force people to eat more food than necessary. The unhealthy ingredients in these foods not only contribute to serious illnesses such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart problems, they also cause myriad health issues affecting skin, bones, muscles and many organs including liver, lungs, and even brain.
Nutritionists advise that people should consume a variety of foods that are as close to natural as possible and avoid processed foods that are full of salt, sugar and trans fat ingredients. It is also advised that people consume controlled portions and not overload on calories. Human bodies store additional calories that are not needed for immediate energy as fat. Fat leads to weight gain which in turn causes many illnesses such as diabetes, strokes and heart attacks. Therefore, it is important not to consume too much of even “good foods” and stay within one’s recommended calorie count.
Depending on their age, height, weight and activity level, men should consume 2,000 – 3,000 calories per day. Women should consume 1,600 – 2,400 calories per day. Also depending on their age and gender, children between the ages of 2 and 18 should consume 1,000 – 3,000 calories per day. As people age, their metabolism slows down and as such, elderly people will need fewer calories.
It is also important to exercise at least 3-4 times a week. Exercise boosts one’s energy level and helps prevent unnecessary weight gain.
About the Author:
Amita Vadlamudi is a fitness enthusiast who engages in regular exercise and follows good nutrition regimen. Amita Vadlamudi also likes to hike during warmer months of the year and swim all year round.