Eating healthy doesn’t have to be difficult or complicated. However, if you are embarking on a new diet or lifestyle change then there are some things you should educate yourself about. Below is some essential information you need to know about food in order to adopt a healthier diet and a healthier you.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates (carbs) are essential for energy. However, there are good carbs, and there are also bad carbs to avoid. Bad carbs are foods that have refined sugars and flour in them, such as cookies, pastries, white bread, and pasta. Good carbs are what your body needs to keep it fueled up and ready to go: foods like fruits and whole-grains. If you want to lose weight, cut back on the bad carbs.
Fats
There are also many different types of fats that our bodies need. These lipids are also crucial to our health as they provide our bodies with energy to work properly. Yet, too many fats can be harmful. Olive oil, avocados, and coconut oil are considered healthy fats.
Protein
Protein is an essential nutrient to feed your body. Did you know that your hair, skin, nails, tissues, and hormones are all made up of protein? Protein is also essential for building muscle and keeping your bones strong and healthy. Protein can be found in yogurt, meat, tofu, cheese, and peanut butter. The amount of protein you should consume each day is different for each person. Use this tool to calculate how much protein you need. Although protein is essential to a healthy diet, too much of it can be unhealthy. Be sure to incorporate other foods into your diet so that it is balanced.
Water
Without water, humans would not survive longer than a few weeks. Water is an essential part of our bodies. In fact, an adult’s body can be composed of up to 65% water. It is important to drink 6-8 cups of water per day in order to stay hydrated and to aid in digestion. Water also helps manage food cravings and overeating. Sometimes when you feel hungry you might just be dehydrated. Make sure that you drink a glass of water with each meal.
Vitamins and Minerals
Vitamins and minerals are essential to include in our diets. They aid in the production of new tissues and cells and the flow of blood. Fruits and vegetables provide a lot of vitamins and minerals. Milk provides vitamin D, which is important for healthy teeth and bones. For optimal health, consider eating a rainbow of fruits and vegetables each day to ensure that you get all of the vitamins and minerals you need.