An optimal eating plan is not the same for every person. People with food allergies and intolerances are not able to eat the same things as most others, and differing nutritional requirements also figure into the matter. Despite those variations, it's safe to say that the best eating plans satisfy all nutritional needs and promote better health through the foods they feature.
Benefits
A balanced, nutritious diet has significant benefits for both mental and physical health. According to MyPyramid.gov, from the USDA, eating fruits and vegetables as part of a balanced plan can reduce risks of stroke, heart disease, diabetes, kidney stones, bone loss and cancer. Nutritious, low-calorie foods help with weight loss and weight management and deliver vitamins and minerals to the body more effectively than supplements do. Finally, the Weight-control Information Network from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases states that an optimal diet can boost people's energy, help them learn better and allow them to remain more alert.
Features
Optimal diets feature wide varieties of food types that are designed to meet all nutritional needs and requirements. MyPyramid.gov suggests daily servings of nonfat dairy products, whole grains, vegetables, lean proteins and fruits and encourages eating different types of foods from each main group.
Nutrition
The healthiest and best diets from a nutritional standpoint limit sodium, added sugar, saturated fat, cholesterol and trans fat, as the American Heart Association recommends. Those nutrients tend to add calories without boosting nutritional value and may contribute to the development of chronic diseases. In contrast, whole, fresh and natural foods contain fewer calories and greater numbers of beneficial vitamins, minerals and nutrients.
Foods
Dark leafy greens, corn, squash, berries, apples, oranges, whole wheat, brown rice, quinoa, avocados, nuts, canola oil, fish, beans, tofu, eggs and nonfat dairy products are examples of especially nutritious foods that fit well into an optimal diet plan. To focus on eating nutritious foods without adding extra calories and fats, prepare foods with healthy cooking methods such as baking, boiling, steaming, blanching and roasting.
Considerations
You can customize any healthful diet plan to fit your lifestyle, budget, preferences and schedule. Optimal diets can make heavy use of flexibility and can remain healthy even with occasional indulgences, desserts and treats. If weight loss is a goal, adding exercise to a routine will help accelerate results and further improve health. Before beginning any new diet or fitness plan, talk with a physician or other health care professional about the details.
References
- CDC: Fruit & Vegetable Benefits
- MyPyramid.gov: Why Is It Important to Eat Fruit?
- Weight-control Information Network: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: Take Charge of Your Health
- American Heart Association: Managing Blood Pressure with a Heart-Healthy Diet
- MayoClinic.com: Weight Loss: Choosing a Diet That's Right for You
