A balanced diet is the intake of essential nutrients necessary for energy production, and natural growth and development. Six essential diet nutrients are carbohydrates, protein, fats, vitamins, minerals and water.
Assessment
A balanced diet is often achieved by keeping a nutritive value record of everything you eat or drink, comparing values with the recommended dietary allowance and adjusting your diet as needed.
Nutrient Benefits
Carbohydrates are the most important foods for exercise. Protein is essential in building and repairing muscle tissue. Fats supply energy and provide critical body functions. Fat and water-soluble vitamins are the two major types of vitamins. Minerals are inorganic elements found in nature. The daily water requirement for men and women is 3.7 and 2.7 liters, respectively.
Expert Insight
According to the USDA dietary guidelines for Americans, caloric intake must contain a variety of nutrient-dense foods and be within energy expenditure needs.
Significance
According to Dash for Health, a healthy diet is scientifically proven to help people lose weight, and lower blood pressure and cholesterol.
Benefits
A healthy diet and 30 minutes of physical activity a day lead to a longer life expectancy.
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