What Are The Lifetime Advantages Of Eating Healthy?

What is the definition of eating healthy? According to the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, healthy eating consists of maintaining a calorie balance over time to achieve and maintain a healthy weight, and focusing the bulk of your food and beverage consumption on items that are nutrient-dense. The majority of your diet should consist of whole grains, vegetables, fruits, low-fat dairy, seafood, lean meats, poultry, legumes, nuts and seeds. Eating healthy can be advantageous in the short term, and can have lasting benefits throughout your life.

Reduced Risk of Disease

Eating healthy may reduce your risk of developing a chronic disease later in life. A healthy diet, high in fiber and low in saturated fat, can reduce your risk of having a heart attack or a stroke by keeping your blood vessels free of harmful plaque. The antioxidants and phytochemicals found in fruits and vegetables can lower your risk of developing certain types of cancer and can help fight attacks from bacteria and viruses. The consumption of dairy foods increases your calcium and vitamin D consumption, reducing your risk for developing osteoporosis.

Greater Energy

Lack of energy and fatigue can interfere with your daily life. An ongoing healthy diet helps mitigate much of the dullness and malaise you feel throughout your day. The physicians at Beth Israel University Hospital recommend an ongoing diet full of grains, vegetables, legumes and iron-rich foods, such as lean cuts of beef, to increase your energy levels. Proper hydration -- drinking at least eight cups of water per day -- is also extremely important for long-term energy, as dehydration can make you feel tired and sluggish.

Improved Mood

In a recent article published by MayoClinic.com, two dietitians reviewed the research based on the connection between diet and mood. Compounds like omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, tryptophan, folate and other B-vitamins showed an association between consumption and an improved state of mind. Chocolate also seems to have a positive effect on mood. Likewise, eating a balanced diet can enhance the availability of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that has an ongoing calming effect on your mood.

Ability to Be More Active

As you age, your ability to stay active becomes increasingly important to ward off debilitating diseases and conditions, such as osteoporosis and obesity. Therefore, healthy nutrition is important in fueling your body for maximum performance, maintaining your muscle mass and keeping you active as you age. According to the National Collegiate Athletic Association, a healthy diet with nutrient-dense sources of carbohydrates, lean proteins and healthy fats can boost your ability to perform optimally.