Scientific evidence is very clear: we can definitely control our own health through the things we eat every day.
Did you know that scientists are actually looking at ways to protect astronauts from radiation through dietary supplements? Radiation hazards in space pose a huge threat to astronaut safety as they lead to the formation of free radicals. However, through a special diet, astronauts are able to counteract the effects of these free radicals.
The same principle applies to us “normal” people. Free radicals form all over our body due to all kinds of environmental attacks. It’s good that more and more people are becoming aware of this these days and are changing their lifestyles to reap the benefits of healthy eating and exercise.
If you want a healthy body and mind, understanding nutrition is paramount. Nature, in her infinite wisdom, has given us everything needed to promote growth, immune system, mental alertness, physical strength and so on. Without a basic understanding of nutrition, it will be very difficult, if not impossible, to design a diet that contains the necessary elements that the body needs.
What exactly does nutritional understanding include?
Put simply, everything you eat affects your body. So you need to make sure that what you eat contains the elements your body needs. What your body needs are carbohydrates, fat, protein and, last but not least, water. The amount in which each of these elements is consumed has a major impact on how you feel, react, and age
- Carbohydrates – this is the body’s number one source of energy. Our liver and muscles in our body need an adequate intake of carbohydrates to stay healthy. There are two main types of carbohydrates (or carbs as some people prefer to call them):
- simple carbohydrates that are predominantly sweet in nature (e.g. fructose, sucrose, glucose, etc.) and
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complex carbohydrates based on starch (found in corn, brown rice, wheat, etc.).
- Fat – needs to be consumed in the required amount in order for it to moderate metabolism and protect vital organs. However, too much fat in the daily diet has the opposite effect. The two main fats are
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Cholesterol: You can get cholesterol from seafood, eggs, dairy products and meat.
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Triglycerides: saturated, polysaturated and monosaturated fats, they affect your weight and heart function.
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Protein – Without protein, the body cannot grow or repair itself. The non-essential amino acids are made by the body itself (hence the term non-essential, the body can supply its own), while the essential amino acids would have to be obtained by the body from eating the right foods.
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Water – the body needs plenty of water: at least eight glasses a day. This amount helps the body eliminate toxins, fight dehydration, prevent heat stroke, regulate body temperature, aid in digestion, and so many other functions. We all know that people can go up to three weeks without food; However, without water, they will perish in just 48 hours.
The right type of balanced diet contributes directly to the health of individuals and communities. Clinical research, as well as evidence gathered through laboratory testing and fieldwork, support the importance of the concept to the practice of clinical medicine, dentistry and public health.
Thanks to Frank Rom
