A healthy diet is the foundation for optimal health and wellness. By eating foods from all of the food groups, you can increase your daily intake of essential vitamins and nutrients. Over time, a healthy diet can help to reduce your risk for heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and even some types of cancer. There are certain foods that should be in your daily diet that you should be aware of.
Dairy
Dairy products should be incorporated into your daily diet. Daily provides the body with calcium, vitamin D, and protein. The calcium in dairy helps to build and maintain strong bones and teeth. Vitamin D aids in the body's absorption of calcium while protein is essential for building healthy tissue and keeping the immune system strong. Some healthy choices include low-fat or skim milk, yogurt, cheese, cottage cheese and frozen yogurt.
Fruit
You should consume several servings of fruit each day. Fruit packs powerful antioxidant vitamins and phytochemicals which are important for your body. According to the American Dietetic Association, antioxidants work by significantly slowing or preventing the oxidative process caused by free radicals that can lead to cell dysfunction and the onset of problems such as heart disease and diabetes and may also improve immune function and perhaps lower your risk for infection and cancer. Kiwi, mango, berries and apples are examples of healthy fruits that should be in your diet.
Vegetables
Several servings a day of vegetables can provide your body with calcium, iron, antioxidants and many other vitamins and minerals. These nutrients can aid in the prevention of illness and help to maintain and increase your daily energy levels. Some healthy vegetables include spinach, peppers, eggplant and broccoli.
Whole Grains
Whole grains provide the body with protein, fiber and many of the essential B vitamins. Fiber is important for a healthy digestive tract while protein and the B vitamins help to provide the body with energy. Some examples of whole grains include oatmeal, quinoa, whole-grain bread, barley and brown rice.
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