Nutrition Month and Healthy Diet

Nutrition month is observed to raise awareness about the importance of healthy eating. It emphasizes the importance of adopting a healthy eating plan and stresses the consumption of vegetables, whole grains, fat-free dairy products, and vegetables.

What is a healthy diet?

A healthy diet is one that helps maintain overall health and provides body with balanced amounts of nutrients be it micronutrients or macronutrients in addition to the required number of calories. A healthy eating plan varies from person to person as it depends on the amount of physical labour one is engaged in, for instance.

A healthy diet ideally should contain very little or no sweetened beverages and processed food. A healthy diet lowers the risk of heart diseases and diabetes.

What should you eat and how?

• You should eat a variety of foods in moderate amounts so that the body does not fall short of any particular nutrient.
• A healthy diet includes protein, minerals, and vitamins in balanced amounts.
• Drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated throughout the day.
• Experts recommend eating fresh fruits and vegetables which are excellent sources of minerals and vitamins.
• You should eat small meals spread throughout the day rather than binging on food once or twice daily.
• You should ideally consume the right number of calories based on the physical labour involved in your daily lifestyle. The consumption of more calories than required will lead to weight gain.
• It is highly recommended to consume legumes, grains, and cereals.
• You should eat your food while chewing it well and eating slowly. This will help reduce your calorie intake too.
• It is best to eat whole grains rather than refined ones as the former are great sources of fibre.
• Protein should be included in every meal.
• You should never skip your breakfast!