Eating a well-balanced, healthy diet provides your
body with the essential nutrients it needs to function on a daily basis.
Healthy foods keep your brain active, provide you with energy and strengthen
bones and muscles. Maintaining a healthy diet can also help you manage your
weight, prevent chronic diseases and alleviate stress.
Chronic disease is the leading cause of disability and death in
the world. Improving eating habits by maintaining a well-balanced diet of
fruits, vegetables, whole grains, dairy and lean meats can help prevent chronic
diseases, such as heart disease, hypertension, diabetes and stroke.
Healthy foods, like fruits and vegetables, are typically low in
saturated fat and have fewer calories than their unhealthy counterparts. When
consumed regularly, fruits and vegetables can help you manage your weight.
High-fiber foods are also healthy foods that are at the cornerstone of weight
management. Fiber helps you stay full for longer periods, so you eat smaller
portions and fewer calories, but still feel satisfied. Whole grains are a good
source of fiber.
Stress can compromise your immune system and lead to many health
problems, such as heart disease and stroke. Healthy foods contain vitamins and
other nutrients that can reduce stress, including magnesium, serotonin and
antioxidants. Magnesium improves the body's response to stress and is found in
vegetables, fruits, nuts and seafood. Protein and complex carbohydrates
increase serotonin levels, a natural mood-boosting substance. Fruits contain
high levels of antioxidants, helping to reverse negative effects of stress
Food provides your body with energy to function properly.
Carbohydrates are the most important source of energy for your body. Your
digestive system converts carbohydrates into glucose, a sugar that is used for
energy. Healthy carbohydrates, such as whole grains, vegetables, fruits and
beans provide nutrients, minerals and fiber that supply you with energy for
sustained periods. Unhealthier carbohydrates, like white bread, pastries and
sugary sodas can provide you with immediate energy, but may leave you feeling
sluggish shortly after.
