Nutrition
Nutrition is the progression of providing or consuming the food essential for development, growth, and overall life. We all know that we need food and water to survive. What we all may not know is how much our diet affects our overall health. Our brain uses the food and beverages that we consume to fuel itself. Once our brain feels nourished enough, is when the rest of our bodies is allowed the nutrients they require.
What does a well-balance consist of?
A well-balanced diet consists of a variety of foods from each of the 5 following food groups:
· Vegetables and legumes (beans)
· Fruit
· Grains and Cereal (Whole grains is recommended)
· Protein
· Dairy
Healthy Substitutions
Potatoes chips
- Air popped popcorn
- Nuts/seeds
- Seaweed chips
French Fries
- Edamame sprinkled with sea salt
- Traditional baked potato
Chocolate
- Dark chocolate 70%
- Protein bar/ shake
Cookies
- Fig bars
- Nutrition bars i.e. KIND
Ice Cream
- Frozen yogurt bars
- Sorbet
*For more healthy snack alternatives click the following link: https://www.oprahmag.com/life/food/g26896785/healthy-junk-food/
Does a healthy diet really impact someone's over all health?
The answer is yes. Diet has a direct relationship with someone's overall health. It is one of many components that increases the quality of life and emotions. Meeting the recommended daily amount of each nutrient in one day can be difficult. However, it is important to get as close as possible. The USDA Food Patterns were created to meet food intake requirements while remaining within calorie needs. This Pattern represents the combined amount of all foods and drinks consumed. By being mindful of what is being consumed and how nutrient-dense it may be, will reduce chronic disease risk and vitamin deficiencies. By consuming a health nutrient-dense diet the body becomes nourished, which increases hormones production and excretion which increase cognitively also.
References
A balanced diet. (2018, March). Retrieved April 22, 2020, from https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/balanced-diet
Earley, B. (2020, April 10). Healthy Swaps for All of Your Junk Food Cravings. Retrieved April 21, 2020, from https://www.oprahmag.com/life/food/g26896785/healthy-junk-food/