Everyone’s body is different. The nutritional requirements can also be different based on the individual’s physical needs. Knowing what nutrients your body needs is the best way to stay healthy. It is not hard to start on a good nutritional program. Read this article for some great ideas to get you started.
It is important to get familiar with your body. People come in all shapes and sizes. A lot of it has to do with your genetics. You cannot control things like your height, but you can control your weight. You should visit your doctor to get a complete physical to find out what body type you have and to get a comprehensive health assessment.
The food pyramid is a good guide for your daily diet. The base of the pyramid represents the food group that should make up the bulk of your diet, six to eleven servings per day of cereals, breads and grains. This is followed by a balance of two other food groups, 3-5 servings of fruits and vegetables. Higher up in the pyramid represents two to three servings per day of dairy, meats, nuts and other sources of protein. The very top of the pyramid represents fats and oils that you should use sparingly. If you follow this basic food pyramid, you will be ensured of a well-balanced diet everyday.
The other important components of a healthy body is exercise. It is not enough to just eat right. You have to put your muscles to use; otherwise, they will lose tone and strength. You do not need to enroll in expensive gym memberships. A brisk stroll through the park, a pleasant bike ride, or even a couple of hours playing with your children at the playground can give you the exercise that your body needs. If you do want something more structured, join a gym for some organized aerobic exercises and weight training.
If you doctor determines that your body is deficient in any nutrients, you can take a supplement to make up for it. The best nutrients should still come from food. However, if there are times when it is not possible to eat a well-balanced diet, you can use supplements to make up for the deficiency. Be sure to consult with your doctor before adding any supplements to your diet.
Many prepared food items are full of artificial additives. Some are loaded with fats and salts. Get into the habit of reading food labels to find out what that food item is made of. Avoid buying products which contain many ingredients that you cannot even pronounce. Stay with naturally prepared foods that are low in fats and salts, and which are packed with nutrients.
You should discipline yourself into making healthier choices whenever you want to eat. For instance, if you have a craving for something sweet, avoid grabbing a cookie. Go for a piece of fruit, which will satisfy your sugar craving but which also has nutrients and fiber that will benefit your body. For meals, choose fish over red meats. There are always healthier alternatives; the choices are really yours, so choose wisely.
Good nutrition is a way of life. Once you get a good start and know what to do, maintaining a healthy diet is not difficult, and it will become second-nature. Start by applying the suggestions in this article, and watch your body get healthier.