Monday, June 11, 2012

Know the basics: Good nutrition plays a vital role in overall good health.

Know the basics
Good nutrition plays a vital role  in overall good health.

Good nutrition is essential to life long health.  A proper diet means replacing unhealthy foods with nutrient rich options. Fad diets often promise quick but short live results.  Instead, you can help ensure overall health with wise food choices that will soon become habits.
According to the US Department of health and human services, healthier eating habits could reduce cancer deaths in the United States by as much as 35%.  Adding more fruits and vegetables to your diet also helps reduce the risk of stroke.

Bottom line:  Eat right. Feel good.

Fruits and vegetables- Harvard studies have shown that for every extra serving of fruits and vegetables you add to your diet, you lower your risk of heart disease by 4%.  Center dishes around vegetables rather than meat. Colorful vegetables carry more nutrients.

Fats- Not all fat's our bad.  While essential fats help supply energy, saturated and trans fats can raise "bad" cholesterol.  Cook more often at home to avoid the trans fat found in commercially prepared foods.

Grains and fiber- Whole greens are better than refined grains, because they include plenty of the fire that promotes digestive health.  Incorporate fiber rich foods such as strawberries interbrand to hope reduce the risk of coronary heart disease.

Meats and beans- Choose lean beef, such as top round and sirloin, or skinless chicken.  Six ounces of fish per week has been shown to reduce the risk of dying from heart disease by 36%.  The US Department of agriculture recommends 5.5 ounces a day of food from the meats and beans group, which also includes eggs and nuts.

Salt- More than 75% of sodium comes from processed foods.  Replaced canned items with fresh fair.  Use herbs and spices to flavor meats instead of salt.

Dairy- Eat Dairy products such as low-fat yogurt and skim milk to sustain strong bones.
Although each person's calorie needs differ, the nutrient facts label provide a common difference.

Being more aware of what you eat will help sustain a healthy life style.  Be sure to schedule regular checkups with your doctor to discuss a balanced diet because each person's needs are different.

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