The Power Of Good Nutrition

"You are what you eat". How many times have we heard this saying echoed before? How can I be what I eat? Some may ask. This saying has a lot of truth because the food that we take in actually helps us to be either sick or well. If a person is sick, I automatically look at what it is they are eating or drinking, if they are in good health I also take note of their nutritional choices as well.

Nutrition is the relationship between diet and health, what we eat determines what type of fuel we are going to give our whole body and what type of weapons we are going to give our immune system to combat invaders. Our SAD (Standard American Diet) does not provide the adequate amount of nutrients that are needed to combat the ever day attacks that we are facing via, environmental, physical , mental and social stresses. A nutrient is the element necessary for our functioning as human beings. These needed nutrients nourish our body and provide the energy and materials needed for the upkeep and regulation of our many body processes. when we do not fully become aware of the power of good nutrition we allow ourselves to become prey to many sometimes unnecessary diseases.

The most important thing we can do is to drink at plenty of water each day. The ideal consumption of water should be about 1/2 ounce for every pound of body weight. Drink about 6 ounces every hour to keep hydrated. We need water for digestion, absorption, circulation and elimination to function properly and dehydration is a cause for many illnesses as well. The next thing that we could do to ensure that we experience the power of good nutrition is to eat an array of fresh fruits and vegetables, and to limit our intake of refined foods and sugars.

Refined sugars actually deplete many of the nutrients that we need to maintain wellness. Having a well balanced diet will ensure that we get all that our body needs for maximum functioning. We need fiber from whole grains, nutrients from fresh fruit and vegetables and protein from a variety of sources. If you are not going to eat meat then it is important that you make meals that together make up a complete protein, as vegetables or grains alone do not provide this but lentils with brown rice will complete the full protein chain that is needed. Hippocrates said to let your food be your medicine and your medicine your food, so take that to heart the next time you are planning your meals.

The power of good nutrition does not need a prescription, just a willingness to plan and prepare healthy meals and snacks. Here's to good health always!

Fateria J M.A. CSMC CMBFC
http://www.its4yourwellness.com/