A balanced diet gives the body nutrients that it needs to function properly. Without a balanced diet, the body is prone to diseases. In addition, viruses and infections also attack the body. Children that do not get enough healthy foods have problems in development. Similarly, they also perform poorly in school. Foods that give us a healthy diet include fresh fruits and vegetables, grains, and legumes. These foods contain healthy calories. Calories refer to the amount of energy that is in the food. Our bodies use the calories from the food. For instance when walking, breathing, and during exercise. Men need more calories than women. In addition, people who exercise need more calories than those who do not.
However, some foods provide many calories but very little nutrition. For instance;
- Cakes and cookies.
- Processed meat.
- Sodas.
- Fruit drinks with added sugar.
- Ice cream.
- Pizza.
- Chips.
Why is a Balanced diet important?
A balanced diet supplies nutrients to the body. It is important to have a balanced diet to prevent diseases. An unhealthy diet leads to diseases such as heart disease and cancer. In addition, people can also develop stroke and type 2 diabetes. Therefore, the body needs nutrients to stay healthy.
Foods to eat for a balanced diet.
A healthy balanced diet includes the following nutrients;
- Carbohydrates.
- Vitamins and minerals.
- Antioxidants.
- Protein.
- Healthy fats.
Examples of protein foods include milk, eggs, meat, fish, and beans. However, for those people that follow a vegan diet plant-based proteins. Therefore their diet does not include fish, meat, and dairy.
Foods to avoid.
Foods to avoid in a healthy diet include;
- Added sugar and salt.
- Processed meat.
- Red meat.
- Alcohol.
- Whole wheat flour for a gluten-intolerant person.
Foods to include in a healthy diet.
1. Fruits.
Fruits are nutritious, tasty, and are high in sugar. They also provide fiber and other nutrients.
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2. Vegetables.
Vegetables are a good source of minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants. Dark leafy greens are the best. They include; spinach, kale, and green beans.
3. Grains.
They provide minerals, vitamins, and fiber.
4. Proteins.
Meat and beans are the best sources of proteins. Moreover, protein is important for wound healing and development. Therefore, animal proteins include meat, fish, and chicken. Plant-based proteins include beans, peas, soy, and lentils.
5. Fats and oils.
Fat is important for energy and cell health. However, too much fat is dangerous. Therefore vegetable and fish oils are healthy.
Therefore, a healthy balanced diet is one that contains fresh plant-based foods. In addition, one should limit the intake of processed foods.
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