Healthy foods are ones that are as close to nature as possible!
Healthy eating means eating a variety of foods that give you the nutrients you need to maintain your health, feel good, and have energy.
Consuming a healthy diet throughout the life-course helps to prevent malnutrition in all its forms as well as a range of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and conditions. According to the World Health Organization the exact make-up of a diversified, balanced and healthy diet will vary depending on individual characteristics (e.g. age, gender, lifestyle and degree of physical activity), cultural context, locally available foods and dietary customs. However, the basic principles of what constitutes a healthy diet remain the same (Source: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/healthy-diet
Some of the best foods for health combine nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, fats and protein. If those foods also have limited amounts of added sugar, fat or salt added to them, they are called nutrient-dense foods.
Foods that are a source of fiber, vitamins and minerals and that are high in plant chemicals called phytonutrients are a bonus. Eating nutrient-dense foods regularly, over time, is linked to a lower risk of some chronic diseases.
Globally the world is full of healthy foods in various forms and regions: availability and accessibility might be the challenge for millions; we focus on the source of healthy food, in order to make them available to reduce food insecurity and non-availability across continents.
How to come to healthy food choices
Making these choices in today’s fast food society, can often feel overwhelming. The abundance of options available—many of which are laden with sugars, preservatives, and unhealthy fats—makes it increasingly challenging for individuals to discern what constitutes truly nourishing food. It takes a lot of effort too to find proper specialists to help you to demystify healthy eating and equip you with the knowledge needed to cultivate a diet that supports optimal health.
What Constitutes Healthy Food?
Healthy food is more than just nutrient-rich; it encompasses a variety of characteristics that contribute to overall well-being. Basically, healthy food should:
- Be Nutrient-Dense:Foods rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and other essential nutrients relative to their calorie content, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
- Minimize Processed Ingredients:Whole, minimally processed foods are generally healthier than those made with artificial additives, preservatives, or high levels of refined sugars.
- Support Dietary Diversity:Incorporating a wide range of foods from different food groups not only enhances flavor and enjoyment but also ensures a broader intake of nutrients.
For instance, a colorful plate filled with a variety of vegetables not only looks appealing but also signifies a mix of antioxidants and vitamins essential for enhancing immunity and reducing disease risk. Integrating more healthy foods into your diet can lead to numerous health benefits, including:
- Weight Management:Nutrient-dense foods tend to be more filling, reducing the likelihood of overeating.
- Improved Heart Health:Diets high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats have been shown to lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
- Enhanced Mental Health:Healthy foods, particularly those rich in omega-3 fats like fish, may be linked to better mood and cognitive function.
- Better Digestive Health:Fiber-rich foods support gut health by promoting regular bowel movements and a healthy microbiome.
Research indicates that following a balanced diet can significantly improve both physical and mental health outcomes, underscoring the vital role of nutrition in comprehensive health.