Nutritious Diet and Health
Most people do not realize the tremendous impact a nutritious, healthy diet has on their bodies. A healthy diet is synonymous with good health. A few simple adjustments and compromises can lead to reduction of weight, which in turn leads to a reduction of the risk of developing high blood pressure, a variety of cancers, heart diseases and osteoarthritis. Of course, regular physical activity also has its benefits. The key to a healthy diet is the inclusion of food from all food groups.
Foods to Eat
A diet in which consumption of fruits and vegetables is given importance can decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer, and cerebral strokes. It also helps in maintaining a healthy weight, reducing risk of obesity and the various hazards associated with it. There are a number of different vegetables to choose from, the most beneficial being green, leafy vegetables like broccoli, spinach and lettuces, vegetables containing the pigment, Xanthophyll, like carrots, sweet potatoes, squash, red peppers and tomatoes.
Ever considered taking any tips from Popeye? Eating spinach on a regular basis can do your body system a whole lot of good. Spinach being rich in iron reduces the danger of heart diseases and cerebral stroke. Carrots enhance the immune systems of our bodies and boost eyesight and are associated with the reduced risk of cancer. Tomatoes too are cancer fighters.
Walnuts are healthy for the heart and heighten our body’s immunity. Sprouted grains abound in fat soluble as well as water soluble vitamins- A, C, D, E, K, B – as well as minerals like calcium and potassium. As age catches up with our bodies, we become less efficient in producing enzymes which disturb our normal bodily functions. Sprouts contain natural enzymes and therefore support effective digestion.
Fruits have high cellulose content, cellulose cannot be digested by our bodies and is thus a fiber. Fruits are also a good source of natural anti-oxidants such as vitamin C and water. Consuming fruit on a regular basis can lead to reduced risks of cancer, various heart diseases, cerebral strokes and Alzheimer’s disease.
Fruits also keep your body functioning properly even as you age. However, it is advisable to stay away from fruit juice as it contains a high concentration of sugar which again leads to the risk of gaining weight.
Lean meats such as chicken, fish and poultry are extremely good sources of proteins. They are also rich sources of minerals such as iron and zinc, minerals that many Americans find difficult to obtain. Eating lean meat is also an excellent way to acquire vitamins. So, including some lean meat in your diet can be a good nutritional choice.
Another good source of proteins is legumes. They are also a good source of phytochemicals – compounds which help to prevent heart diseases and cancer – and fiber, in addition to being low in fat and cholesterol.
Eating low-fat dairy products such as low-fat cheeses, low-fat yoghurt and low-fat milk everyday reduces the risk of diabetes and osteoporosis. On the contrary they help in building strong bones because of their high calcium content.
Foods to Avoid
Cutting down on alcohol, sugars and fats is essential to a healthy diet. Excess alcohol will increase the fat deposits in the heart and decrease the immune function. High sugar consumption enhances the risk of contracting diabetes. Apart from leading to an increase in weight, fats increase cholesterol levels and the risk of heart diseases.
Following a balanced and nutritious diet is the secret to good health. Incorporating a few changes in your diet can do a whole lot of good. The advantages of a nutritious diet- better health, longer life, and more energy- far overshadow any inconveniences you may experience.
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