Benefits of Good Nutrition
There are multiple benefits of good nutrition. Good nutrition will not only help you maintain a healthy weight, but it is essential for the body and all its systems to function optimally for a lifetime. Since a healthy diet provides energy, promotes good sleep, and gives the body what it needs to stay healthy, the benefits of good nutrition are found in physical (brain, heart, bones) and mental health (emotions, self-confidence).
What you eat can affect how you think and how you act. The activity of the brain can be influenced by the food that we eat. Research suggests that it might be good to eat a diet rich in carbohydrates when you want to relax or have a high protein snack if you need to be alert. Changes in your diet can produce changes in your brain chemistry and function.
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Protein in the foods you eat is broken down into individual amino acids. Your body uses the amino acids to build and repair the various parts of your body.
Another raw material your body needs is calcium. Calcium has several functions in your body, but its best known as the mineral that is stored in your bones and teeth. You need calcium from your diet to keep your bones and teeth strong.
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The heart is an essential core of our bodies. Eating heart healthy foods involves avoiding foods high in unsaturated fats and cholesterol that can lead to heart disease and possible failure later in life. Foods that increase the risk for heart disease include a direct link to unsaturated fats and cholesterol.
The foods you eat provide the energy your body needs to function. The main form of energy for your body is carbohydrates. Your body has the easiest time digesting carbohydrates like sugar and starch. Carbohydrates are broken down into individual glucose, fructose or galactose units. Glucose is your body’s favorite form of energy. If you don’t get enough carbohydrates, your body can make glucose from protein or fat If you get too many carbohydrates, your body stores them as fat. Foods that are excessively sugary create fluctuations in blood sugar levels which may cause us to feel tired very shortly after eating. By eating a healthy diet, we maintain constant energy levels throughout the day.
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