A healthy diet
Healthcare professionals would be thrilled if individuals made decisions about what to eat based on a solid knowledge of what constitutes a “healthy diet.” Unfortunately, that is not typically the case. Many people do not know what constitutes a healthy diet. There are also those who do know but make less healthy choices for several reasons.
The food choices that people make are influenced by a variety of factors. Factor-categories include, but are not limited to, environmental cues, socioeconomic realities, cultural/religious beliefs, and the availability of foods in the community.
In a 3-page paper, written in APA format using proper spelling/grammar, address the following:
Explain what nutrition is and why it is important.
Describe the characteristics of a healthy diet and provide supporting examples.
Identify at least two (2) factors (other than culture) that can impact a person’s food choices and provide a specific example for each.
Research a culture (e.g., ethnic, religious, dietary) where specific food restrictions are dictated and address the following:
Describe the restrictions.
Explain how the restrictions could make it difficult for an individual to achieve a healthy diet.
What dietary alternatives could be incorporated to overcome the dietary restrictions?
Sample Solution
Nutrition is the process of consuming and utilizing food for growth, development and maintenance of good health (Mahan & Escott-Stump, 2012). Nutrition plays an important role in our lives because it forms the basis for physical and mental well-being. The foods we consume provide energy to carry out daily activities as well as nutrients essential for growth, repair and functioning of various body systems.
The characteristics of a healthy diet involves meeting one’s dietary needs by eating a variety of nutrient dense foods from all food groups while maintaining optimal calorie balance. A balanced diet include carbohydrates such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables; proteins including lean meats, fish, poultry or eggs; healthy fats like nuts, seeds or olive oil; dairy products such as milk or yogurt (Mayo Clinic Staff., 2020). Additionally vitamins and minerals are supplied through leafy greens broccoli and other nutrient dense foods. Studies have suggested that following a prudent approach towards nutrition which includes eating breakfast regularly can improve cognitive function throughout the day (Kumari et al., 2017). Proper hydration is also important aspect of overall nutrition . About 60% of our body consists water so it’s important to maintain its level even if we do not feel thirsty (Lambiase et al., 2009).
It’s paramount to practice mindful eating which means being aware about what type of food is consumed rather than just thinking about quantity. Eating regular meals helps maintain proper blood sugar levels along with improving metabolism(Dasgupta & Pillai 2018) . It is also beneficial to limit intake processed foods due to there potential toxicity from artificial flavors ,preservatives etc (Biagi et al., 2017 ). Consuming adequate amounts fiber found in whole grains bran fruits ,vegetables etc help reduce risk factors associated with certain chronic diseases (Oreščanin Djedović at al.,2014 ) . Lastly, physical activity should be coupled with a nutritious meal plan for long term success in weight management without compromising health (Tudor-Locke & Lutes 2014 ).
In conclusion ,nutrition plays an integral role promoting physical mental health provided that individuals follow guidelines designed by healthcare professionals like the USDA Food Pyramid which provides visuals on how much each group should be consumed daily. With this information it’s possible create develop implement personalized strategies based on individual preferences while enjoying enjoyable nutritious meals at same time.