Perhaps you have asked the following question: “Why is good nutrition important for my health?” In the simplest terms possible, good nutrition is vital to living a long and healthy life!
Food Nutrients and Your Body
The nutrients found in healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy products, whole grains, lean meats, beans and healthy plant fats…
- …provide energy
- …maintain bone structure
- …prevent deficiencies and the symptoms which come with them
- …support immune function
- …increase resistance to sickness and disease
- …promote wound healing
- …support metabolic processes in the body
- …contain antioxidants which fight free radicals
Healthy vs. Unhealthy Foods
With health benefits like these, it is easy to see why eating right is so important. Eating foods which are not nutritious will still provide energy in the form of calories, but typically lack the vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats which are essential for your body’s support and health.
Balanced Meals Made Easy!
Many times it can seem overwhelming or confusing to put together a healthy meal. Most of us know what types of food are healthy, but we cannot picture what a healthy meal should look like. The following diagram shows an example of what your plate should look like when you prepare and serve your food:
Half of the plate should be fruits and vegetables, one quarter should be lean protein such as chicken breast or plant sources like beans or legumes, and the last one quarter should include grains and starches such as bread, tortillas, or potatoes. Add a glass of milk and a slice of bread and you have a complete, balanced meal!
You Can Do It!
Visualize this plate if you are having difficulties choosing the correct foods or planning a meal. It is one of the easiest methods to eating a balanced diet and is sure to help you in your quest to eat healthy for maximum health and longevity.
