A healthy diet is simply one which helps to keep or improve general health. The term “diet” usually refers to any plan or regimen in which an individual attempts to restrict his intake of certain foods or beverages in order to achieve a more ideal weight. A typical, but not exclusive diet includes cutting out fat, carbohydrates, excess salt, sugar, and other unhealthy foods; replacing one or more foods with a healthier alternative; and taking supplements in lieu of or in addition to other foods or beverages. A well-balanced diet is important for achieving or maintaining optimal health.
A Healthy Diet is Important for Weight Control: Studies have shown that the best way to reduce weight is to eat a healthy, well-balanced diet that is low in fat and calories. By eating a healthy diet you not only help your weight control efforts, but also contribute to good health. A good diet is a combination of complex carbohydrates with good fats, protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. By eating well and getting regular exercise you can improve your lifestyle and have more energy. A healthy weight loss program is only as good as its owner. So be sure to “eat well” exercise often!
The Healthiest Foods on the Planet is Whole Grains: While it may seem tempting to snack on white bread with jelly or chocolate chip cookies, these foods contain empty calories that lead to weight gain and unhealthy behavior. The healthiest foods on the planet are whole grains like brown rice, whole-wheat pasta, quinoa, etc., which provide fiber, antioxidants, minerals, vitamins, and phytochemicals that support optimal health. A diet rich in vegetables and fruits (especially dark green leafy vegetables like kale, spinach, mustard greens, turnips, Swiss chard, etc.) is also healthier than an average American diet. Fruits and vegetables contain a wide range of nutrients including fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, and phytonutrients, which are important nutrients for maintaining a healthy metabolism and body.
The Healthiest Foods on the Planet is Proteins: When looking at food nutrition facts, protein is the single most important nutrient. Meat proteins are the highest in protein content per serving and are the most commonly consumed protein in the world. Eggs are another source of protein that is high in both calcium and iron. However, the healthiest proteins are soy products and nuts like almonds, pecans, chestnuts, walnuts, cashews, pistachios, etc. Nuts are particularly loaded with nutrients including magnesium, which is known to improve circulation and lower cholesterol levels.
The Healthiest Foods on the Planet is Fats: Most Americans get too much fat and too much cholesterol in their diets. Fats increase LDL levels (bad cholesterol) and decrease HDL levels (good cholesterol). The healthiest fats are mono unsaturated fats like nuts and avocados, while saturated fats come mostly from hydrogenated oils, hydrogenated fats, processed meats, etc. Eating less fats can lead to reduced LDL and increased HDL levels and a lower risk of heart disease and other chronic diseases.
The Healthiest Foods on the Planet is carbohydrates: When it comes to carbohydrates, fruits and vegetables are the best sources of fiber and low-carb diet foods. Fruits contain lots of antioxidants, fiber, water and vitamins, while vegetables are loaded with potassium, vitamins, minerals and water. Carbs are easily converted into glucose, which is used by the body and is a source of energy. Low-carb diet foods that are made up mostly of fruits and vegetables are the best sources of carbohydrate.