Balanced Diet - article by MOREinfo-About.com

Balanced Diet

There are many guidebooks on nutrition which will help an individual to choose appropriate foods and amounts for size, age and activity.

There are numerous authorities who have some minor disagreements as to a healthy diet, but in all cases a good diet will include some protein (meat, poultry, fish, eggs or soy products) a variety of vegetables and fruits, grain and some fats. Those who choose a vegetarian diet must find protein substitutes for meat. The vitamins and minerals necessary to good health are contained in the fruits and vegetables one consumes, but if a sufficient amount and variety of vegetables are not included in the diet, it is wise to add vitamins and minerals through food supplements.

For example, certain important nutrients are found largely in dark green, leafy vegetables. A double portion of carrots or cabbage will not substitute for these nutrients. Certain foods contain antioxidants which help, for instance, to prevent some types of cancer are found in specific foods such as broccoli. To be certain of eating a balanced diet to maintain good health, it is well to consult the literature available in order to include important foods in one's daily diet.

Fish in the diet is important to maintaining good health. Too much fatty red meat is a negative in a healthy diet. Turkey is recommended as a source of healthy protein to include in a balanced diet. Eggs, also an important source of protein, can be included in a balanced diet, but according to some experts should be eaten only once or twice a week.

A balanced diet will vary according to locale and cultural preferences. In some areas, more raw foods are included in the regular diet, and there are many nutritionists who feel raw food is an important element in a healthy diet. Food enzymes, which aid in digestion, can be destroyed with overcooking. On the other hand, cooking will destroy sometimes harmful bacteria.

A healthy, balanced diet is essential to maintain a healthy, strong, energetic body. Use available information to help plan a balanced daily diet for yourself and your family.

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