The saying “food is the best medicine” cannot be far from truth. Almost every single day, (except for religious or other personal reasons), we eat food. This means that whatever you choose to eat has tremendous effect on your health and vitality.
Food is a defining element of our existence.
There are many illnesses that may be cured through a change in diet patterns. While food may be the best medicine, it cannot be the only element in maintaining a holistic health and vitality. In fact, a good number of ailments require medication, therapies and exercises. This not withstanding, food can be considered the most important since we consume it most frequently.
HOW DOES FOOD PROVIDE US WITH VITALITY?
As is a common knowledge, nutrients found in food keep the body healthy and active. Food containing the right nutrients in their right relative amounts is therefore, of great essence.
- Fiber in food enhances digestion and protects the body against diseases such as colon cancer. It also maintains beneficial bacteria in your gut that aid in digestion, control blood sugar and even maintain your brain health. Fruits and vegetables are a good source of fiber.
- Vitamins and minerals are required in small amounts but are important for the repairs of damaged cells and healing of wounds, strengthening bones and generally boost your immune system.
- Antioxidants are molecules that repair damaged cells and protect healthy cells from damage. Damaged cells lead to cancer and other life threatening diseases which may even result in death. Cooking spices, fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants.
- Healthy fats and proteins are of great essence as well. Proteins are made of amino acids that actively support metabolism, normal functioning of the immune system, muscle syntheses and growth. Healthy fats help with the absorption of nutrients and improve heart health.
In all, whole natural foods are the best to provide your nutritional needs.
As much as possible, avoid unhealthy diets such as high sugar foods, too oily foods and excessively refined grains. A high consumption of such foods expose you to cancer risk, insulin resistance and an overall decrease in immunity.
Healthy eating patterns lead not only to good health but also a better quality of life. Couple this with regular appropriate exercises and you can boast of a really high quality of life.
WHAT MAKES UP A HEALTHY DIET?
A healthy diet consists of a combination of the afore mentioned nutrients in their right relative amounts. While you do not need a specific measuring instrument to determine the weight of fibers or healthy fats in your food, moderation is key. Vegetables, whole grains, fruits, healthy proteins and water is a great combination.
To give a better perspective on what a healthy combination of food is, check out the Healthy Eating Plate published by The Nutrition Source, Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H Chan School of Public Health.
IN ESSENCE
Food, as we may eat it to satisfy hunger or just because we need to eat, it does much more than just that. It provides your body with health and vitality. It should, however, not be replaced entirely with normal medicine and exercise. A healthy combination of food consists of whole and natural foods.
