When you eat a healthy, well-balanced diet, you are giving your body all the nutrients it needs to maintain its normal functions, allowing your system to run as smoothly as possible. When your body is working well, bodily tasks such as thinking, sleeping, moving and healing all come easier. A nutritious menu also helps you to achieve and maintain a healthy body weight, which adds to mobility. Feeling healthier, thinking more clearly, warding off sickness and being able to move more freely can help you to be more productive and to accomplish your goals. All of these things add to a positive self-image.
Good Nutrition
Good nutrition involves making smart food choices. To get the most nutritional benefit from what you are eating, select foods which are good sources of vitamins, minerals and fiber while being low in calories and saturated fat. The American Dietetic Association recommends filling half your plate with vegetables and dividing the other half equally between a whole grain source and a lean meat, like poultry or fish. The knowledge that you are protecting yourself from chronic disease and increasing your chance of enjoying a long and healthy life helps to reduce stress and increase confidence and optimism.
Wellness
Focus your goals for eating healthy on overall wellness. If you are overweight, plan to lose weight slowly; healthy weight loss is no more than 1 to 2 pounds per week. Don't dwell on the number on the scale, but instead, think of how you're helping yourself to feel better, move more easily and accomplish more.
Mood Boosting Foods
Sara Reaves, a registered Dietitian with the American Dietetic Association recommends certain foods that can help elevate your mood. Foods which contain complex -- rather than refined -- carbohydrates help you maintain consistent energy levels, preventing a spike in energy followed by a subsequent drop that can make you feel tired and cranky. Choose foods like oatmeal, legumes, brown rice and fresh fruits and vegetables. Good sources of omega-3 fatty acids are salmon, flaxseeds and walnuts, and can help to naturally improve your mood.
Considerations
If you feel you are struggling with esteem issues centered around food and eating, it may help to consult your doctor. He or she can recommend further services, such as consulting a registered dietitian for help with planning nutritious meals. Dietitians are experienced in designing menus tailored to your unique health needs.
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