Balanced Diet Linked To Health And Well-being, Experts Say
New insights into the role of diet on health reveal the need for balanced nutrition.
Charlie Kennedy
- 2024-01-13
- Updated 12:40 AM ET
(NewsNibs) - Eating a balanced diet is crucial to maintaining various body functions, which include bolstering the immune system and supporting mental health. According to specialists, such as dietitian Nichola Ludlam-Raine of Ramsay Healthcare, food choices significantly influence one's health over time. The impact of diets high in sugars, unhealthy fats, and additives has become increasingly clear, contributing to a variety of health issues.
The Risks of Sugary Drinks and Processed Foods
Research emphasizes the dangers of consuming sugary drinks and heavily processed foods. Sugary drinks, which include sodas and some fruit juices, are laden with excess sugars and have been linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. A notable 2019 study published in the journal Circulation also associated these beverages with a higher risk of heart disease. In light of these findings, health experts advocate for the replacement of sugary drinks with healthier options such as water, herbal teas, or sparkling water with a dash of juice. Furthermore, highly processed foods, which commonly contain trans fats, sodium, and added sugars, have been correlated with an elevated risk of cardiovascular diseases and other health complications. Due to these risks, the FDA has initiated measures to eliminate artificial trans fats from processed food items.
Healthy Alternatives and Recommended Intake
As consumers become more aware of the health risks associated with certain fats, a shift towards foods containing healthy fats such as avocados, nuts, and fish is evident. Red and processed meats, known for their high saturated fat content and potential chemical additives when processed, have been scrutinized for their links to heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers, including colorectal cancer. Experts recommend limiting the intake of red meat to no more than 70 grams per day (490 grams per week), and suggest alternatives like lean poultry, fish, and plant-based proteins such as tofu, beans, and lentils to provide essential nutrients while mitigating health risks.
In summary, a diet consisting of balanced, healthier choices is not only vital for overall wellbeing but is also a preventative measure against numerous health issues. As scientific studies delve deeper into the consequences of poor dietary habits, prevailing advice from healthcare professionals encourages a proactive approach to nutrition, underlining the importance of choosing foods that promote a healthy body and mind.
