A balanced diet is important for your health because it provides adequate amounts of necessary nutrients. According to the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, a balanced diet includes foods that will contribute to vitamin, mineral, fiber, carbohydrate, protein and fat intake in such a manner that you will get the right amount of each on a daily basis. A balanced diet helps protect against illness and contributes to the maintenance of a healthy weight.
Whole Grains
You can find whole grains in bread, cereal and crackers. The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics recommends that the majority of food intake each day should be from the whole grains food group. This is because they provide energy for daily life. Whole grains also contribute to adequate fiber, B vitamins and iron intake. When purchasing whole grain products, you should look for those that state they are made from whole grains and contain the Whole Grain Stamp. You should eat 6 to 11 servings of whole grains each day.
Fruits and Vegetables
Eating plenty of produce daily means getting optimal levels of vitamins, fiber and antioxidants, according to HelpGuide.org. Eating fruits and vegetables of all colors ensures adequate levels of necessary vitamins and minerals. A balanced diet includes 2 to 4 servings of fruit and 5 or more servings of vegetables every day. Produce is low in calories, and incorporating it into meals and snacks helps you reach daily consumption goals.
Dairy
Foods from the dairy group provide calcium and Vitamin D, two elements that support healthy bones and teeth, says the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. Good sources of dairy include milk, cheese and yogurt. Dairy products also contribute to healthy muscles and nerves. Recommended intake is 2 to 3 servings per day. Foods from this group are essential to a balanced diet, and eating low-fat versions prevents you from getting too much saturated fat and calories.
Protein
According to HelpGuide.org, protein is responsible for maintaining cells, tissues and organs. It also provides energy and contributes to healthy growth. Protein is available in meats, beans, nuts, eggs, fish and soy. You should consume protein as part of a healthy diet; however, getting too much protein from red meats and full-fat dairy increases the risk of heart disease, so lean meats and low-fat cheese and milk are recommended for a balanced diet.
Healthy Fats
Eating the right amount of healthy fats in moderation aids in brain, heart and cell health. It also keeps skin, hair and nails healthy and well-nourished, according to HelpGuide.org. Healthy fats are monounsaturated and polyunsaturated and can be found in olive oil, avocados, nuts, seeds and many varieties of fish, such as salmon and herring. A balanced diet avoids too much trans fat and saturated fat and incorporates the healthy alternatives into cooking.
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