The importance of a balanced diet for a normal functioning human being cannot be underestimated. To be able to achieve that, our diet must constitute all the necessary nutritional components needed to make the above happen. These include water, proteins, carbohydrates, fats, minerals and vitamins.
Since the body is 70% water (in various forms), it is undoubtedly the most important nutrient that it needs. The various organs, tissues and cells in the body function to their optimum when the body is fully hydrated. Because the body loses water through perspiration and other activities, it's important to replenish water lost through dehydration by drinking lots of it. The recommended water intake is 8 glasses daily but the key is to drink as much as possible and not to be obsessed with the so called benchmark. Apart from drinking water in its natural form, it can be found in fruits such as watermelon and apples.
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Another nutritional component the body needs is proteins. They can be found in foods such as meat, eggs, fish, and beans. Proteins releases a chemical called amino acids which enables the body to build and repair tissues. Proteins also assists in the building of muscles hence making them strong and healthy. Adequate proteins in the body also ensure the production of Red Blood Cells and the proper growth of hair on the head and body.
Carbohydrates and Fat are also components of a well-balanced diet. They provide the body with energy for optimum functionality during daily activities. When there is too much carbohydrates in our daily food intake, the body stores the excess as fat which are then released during a period of hyper-activity. If there isn't enough activity such as exercises to "burn" or get rid of the excess fat, the result can be obesity and that can lead to other diseases and illness. It's therefore important to regulate our carbohydrate and fat intake and exercise regularly so that we maintain a lean and healthy body.
Other nutritional components that must be present in our diet are vitamins and minerals. They assist in maintaining the right balance of chemicals that the body needs to function properly. They can be obtained in foods such as fruits, vegetables, milk and greens. Minerals such as iron and thiamine assists in the proper digestion of foods for efficient body metabolism. Where there is insufficient supply of vitamins and minerals from natural foods, supplements are recommended to make up for the short falls. To ensure the intake of the right type and amounts, let your doctor recommend the appropriate ones.
Remember, the key is BALANCE, hence the term balanced diet. Too much or too little of each nutritional component will result in an unhealthy body and the consequences can be disastrous. The combination of a healthy diet plan and a good exercise regime is the right recipe for a healthy body and life.
A Balanced Diet - The Key Nutritional Components
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