5 Major Impacts of a Well-Balanced Diet

The importance of consuming the proper nutrients cannot be stressed enough, especially as we age. The foods that we choose to eat each day can have a number of effects on the mind and body and can make a huge difference on our mood and lifestyles. Although often times we may find ourselves struggling to resist that deep dish pan deluxe pizza, choosing a healthier alternative can really pay off! Practicing a healthy diet and consistently consuming the right nutrients can have five major impacts, among many others!

Maintain Normal Body Function

As we age, you may notice that you cannot hear quite as well or have trouble remembering simple notes that in previous years would have been no problem! Believe it or not, our diet can have a major impact on many bodily functions. These including your five senses, pH level, blood pressure, blood sugar level, the ability to rebuild tissues and your balance. Practicing a healthy diet can help you maintain these body functions as you continue to age.

Maintain Healthy Weight

This one should be a no brainer. If you eat fried food every day you are not going to look like the toned bodies you see in fitness magazines. Not only does eating healthy keep your weight down, it also reduces the risk of heart disease, diabetes and abnormal blood pressure.

Prevent Diseases

When you eat a well-rounded diet including a variety of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains that are low in trans and saturated fat, you are reducing the risk of getting sick and developing chronic diseases such as cardiovascular and diabetes.

Mood & Energy

A well-balanced diet not only affects your body and its functions, but your mind as well. Vitamins play a role in the operation of neurotransmitters and deficiencies that can lead to depression and mood disorders. Good nutrition can also boost your energy level, which than in turn can help you carry out your daily routine with ease, ultimately resulting in a better mood – so eat good food!

Provide Stress Relief

Similar to the impact vitamins have on your mood, proper nutrition can also provide stress relief by reducing the side effects of medication, boosting the immune system, and can help you maintain calming and coping abilities.

WHAT and WHEN to Eat

With common sense most people can figure out what to eat and what not to eat. Fruits and vegetables provide the essential vitamins needed for a healthy diet and are always good for you. Lean proteins such as egg whites, yogurt, salmon, tuna and other sea foods, and chicken breast are all great examples. Fruits and vegetables, carbohydrates, lean protein, and vitamins and minerals are all key ingredients to a healthy lifestyle. Surprisingly, WHAT you eat is half the battle. The WHEN is almost as important as the content of the foods you choose. It is important not to over-eat, meaning that you should consumer smaller portions of food throughout the day. Breakfast, lunch and dinner should not be skipped, but be sure to snack on a yogurt, banana or fiber bar in-between meals. Eating smaller portions of food throughout the entire day will speed up your metabolism and keep you slim!

Do you know someone who could use these nutrition tips? Pass them along – share with family and friends on your social networks TODAY!

Sources:
http://www.livestrong.com/article/522808-5-effects-of-good-nutrition/
http://ezinearticles.com/?5-Effects-of-Good-Nutrition&id=1565105