Why Food Is Fundamental To A Healthy Lifestyle

Humans need food to live. Since prehistoric times, people have been collecting food, making the food available to their group members for the purpose of sustaining life. There are several types of food that humans need to survive. Among these food types, plant food supplies the body with carbohydrates, protein, fat, vitamins and minerals. Animal food provides protein, fats, carbohydrates and vitamins.

The type of food that you eat has profound effects on your health, well-being and longevity. Although there is considerable debate over which foods are more nutrient-dense and essential for good nutrition, most experts agree that fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and beans are the healthiest choices. Food can be categorized into various groups depending on the nutrients they contain. Fishes, meats, dairy products, legumes, poultry and eggs are among the major categories of food choices.

The three main food groups, carbohydrates, proteins and vitamins, provide the bulk of a typical healthy diet. Carbohydrates include breads, pasta, potatoes, rice and cereals. Proteins are the chief source of energy and are obtained from meat, fish, poultry and eggs. The vitamins found in these food groups are also the basic nutrients needed by the body to function normally. Some fruits, vegetables, whole grains and beans are complete proteins, which provide all the amino acids essential to the body.

Since some people are genetically predisposed to certain diseases and to certain nutritional deficiencies, it is recommended to take vitamins and supplements according to a physician’s orders. A balanced diet is the first step towards healthy living, but sometimes that is not enough to keep you going. Sometimes, depending on your health situation or the severity of a particular disease or condition, supplementation may become necessary. In cases of vitamin or mineral deficiencies, especially for those with chronic illnesses, doctors may recommend vitamin or mineral tablets, chewable tablets, or intravenous supplementation.

With proper nutrition, everyone can live a long and healthy life. However, one should remember that although good nutrition is important, not all foods are created equally. Some foods are naturally higher in nutrients than others, especially those rich in fat and salt. If you want to be healthy, eat healthy foods such as fruits and vegetables.

Meats, dairy products, grains, fish, poultry and eggs are all good dietary fibre. They are all easy to digest and provide the body with essential nutrients without too much effort. Foods rich in carbohydrates are easier to convert to energy and so make an excellent source of energy. When mixed with other nutrients, carbohydrates are the building blocks of healthy cells and tissues, including hemoglobin, which transports oxygen through the blood.