Food fuels the body. Therefore, what you put into it matters. It will reflect how you feel and even how you look. Eating food is not simply about counting calories and sticking to a diet. It is more about eating a variety of nutritious foods. So called empty calories are found in foods that contain little to no nutrient value. To be fit for life, it is more important to choose foods that are nutrient dense.
Healthy Choices
Step 1
Choose a variety of fruits. Different fruits have different nutrients. Fruits are generally low in calories and low in fat and they have a high level of nutrients. Fruits will help keep the stomach full because they contain fiber. Snacking on fruits will not only fuel the body, but it will also prevent over eating.
Step 2
Go green. Vegetables are so important in a diet because they provide the body with essential vitamins and minerals. According to the CDC, people who consume a generous amount of vegetables have a lower risk for stroke, cardiovascular disease and some cancers.
Step 3
Eat whole grains. Choose whole grains over processed foods. Whole grains are filled with fiber and nutrients. Processed breads and pastas do not have the same benefits on the body as whole grains. Whole grains can also help regulate the digestive system.
Step 4
Add low-fat protein foods to your diet. Fish, meats, low-fat dairy and beans are all nutritious sources of low-fat protein. Protein is important to the diet because it helps build and repair muscle tissue. It also helps maintain the muscle that already exists and will help you burn more fat. Avoid high fat meats like red meat and whole milk products.
Step 5
Limit unhealthy fats. Unhealthy fats include saturated fats, which are often found in animal products, and trans fats, which are often found in processed foods. These types of fats offer no nutritional value to the body. According to MayoClinic.com, consuming these fats in excess can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease and even stroke. Instead opt for healthy fats like polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats. These can be found in olive oil and canola oil.
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