Why Should We Make Healthy Food Choices?

Why Should We Make Healthy Food Choices?
Photo Credit fruits image by cherie from Fotolia.com

Making healthy food choices is a way to ensure that your body receives all the essential daily nutrients. When your body receives the necessary vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals, it can function at its optimal level. These foods can help you to achieve higher energy levels and a stronger immune system. There are several reasons to incorporate healthy food choices into your daily diet.

Increased Energy Levels

Making healthy food choices can help to increase your daily energy level. The B vitamins, such as vitamin B12, are used for energy metabolism in the body. Vitamin B12 can be found in eggs, meat, poultry, shellfish, milk and milk products. Iron and antioxidant vitamins can also directly influence your energy levels. Iron can be found in red meat and dark leafy green vegetables and antioxidants are abundant in fruits and vegetables.

Disease Prevention

Eating a diet rich in antioxidant vitamins can help your body ward off disease. The food you eat -- and the amount -- can affect controllable risk factors for heart disease such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity. Antioxidant vitamins can be found in fruits and vegetables.

Strengthened Immune System

Nutrition plays an important role in the functioning of the body's immune system. Vitamin A, C, E and beta carotene are linked to strengthening the immune system. Selenium, zinc and co-enzyme Q10 are also important for the body's immunity. These nutrients can be obtained by eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean meats and whole grains.

Improved Mood and Cognition

Vitamin B12 can have a direct impact on your mood and cognition. This vitamin is required for optimal neurological functioning. It can be found in dairy, meat and shellfish.

References

Article reviewed by Helen Covington Last updated on: Feb 5, 2011

Must see: Photo Galleries

Member Comments