We all know that nutrition is an important aspect of staying healthy, but what exactly is nutrition? What makes nutrition good or bad? Merriam-Webster defines nutrition as “the sum of the processes by which an animal or plant takes in and utilizes food substances.”
Some important nutrients include proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals, fiber, and water. It is critical to remember that it is best to get a variety of these nutrients through a balanced diet.
Good nutrition is based on what your body gains from the food you eat. Eating a bunch of candy only gives your body too much sugar that it will likely store as fat. Processed foods are chock-full of unnatural ingredients that do much more harm than good in the body.
Good nutrition can
- Reduce your risk of heart disease, diabetes, stroke, some cancers, and osteoporosis
- Reduce high blood pressure
- Lower high cholesterol
- Improve your mental health
- Improve your immune system
- Assist in your recovery from illness or injury
- Increase your energy level
The history of federal nutrition education dates back to the 1890s when early human nutrition research was conducted. The role of nutrients was not established until the 1920s and 1930s. In the 1940s, the farmer was considered a patriot. Healthy family meals gained popularity during the 1950s and 1960s. It was not even widely known that food does more than just provide us with something to eat until the 1970s and 1980s. From 1990 on, dietary guidance has taken a new shape that shows how beneficial nutrients are to our overall health.
An unhealthy diet can contribute to a number of negative factors. Obesity is a major problem in the U.S. as approximately one-third of all American adults are obese. Aside from what obesity can do to your physical appearance and mental health, excess weight can increase your risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes as well as increase your blood pressure and compromise your immune system.
It might seem overwhelming to constantly make sure you are getting your nutrients in for the day, but a few small changes can make a world of difference. Avoiding sugary drinks and processed junk food can lower your calorie intake and unhealthy fat intake. Eating nuts provides you with several nutrients and can even help you lose weight.
Fatty fish provides protein and healthy fat. It can also reduce your risk of developing heart diseases, dementia, and depression. One of the best things you can do for your gut health is to nurture it with probiotics and fiber. This can be accomplished by eating foods such as yogurt, sauerkraut, beans, and lentils.
You will hear this advice no matter where you turn: eat your fruits and veggies! Your body will thank you a million times over for eating fruits and vegetables because the benefits are nearly endless. Try incorporating produce into your meals and snacks. Cut up your fruits and vegetables ahead of time and keep them visible in your kitchen.
You can make a major impact on your nutrition by avoiding sugar, including artificial sugars. Sugar is so bad for you! The advantages of avoiding sugar severely outweigh the negative effects it has on your body. Due to the incredible health perks of good nutrition and the adverse effects of bad nutrition, you should make it a habit to eat a nutritious diet every day.
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