The human body, with its trillions of cells, intricate systems and vital internal organs, relies on the sustenance from your food choices to support and sustain your body’s various mechanisms. Considering that your body uses food for energy, regulation of your body’s processes, growth and repair, as well as protection, the food you eat will aid the proper performance of these functions. Natural foods are a healthy, beneficial way to supply your body with what it needs to support these various functions while also providing energy and improving your bodily functions.
Drink Plenty of Water
Because your body is made up of approximately 75 percent water, it's important you get enough to support your body's functions. Water is important for proper hydration, and also regulates body temperature, carries nutrients and oxygen to cells, makes minerals and other nutrients more accessible to the body, lubricates joints and lessens the burden on your kidneys and liver by expelling waste. Needless to say, water’s role in improving bodily functions is significant. Therefore, it’s important you drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses a day.
Consume Complex Carbohydrates
Your body’s main energy source is carbohydrates. Glucose, the fuel made when your body metabolizes carbohydrates, is used immediately or stored in your liver and muscles for later use. Whole grains, nuts and legumes serve as adequate sources of naturally occurring carbs. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2010 suggest 45 to 65 percent of you daily calories come from carbohydrates.
Choose Foods High in Fiber
From normalizing waste elimination, lowering blood cholesterol and controlling blood sugar levels, fiber plays a pivotal role in your body’s health maintenance. Insoluble fiber, or fiber that doesn’t dissolve in water, efficiently moves material through your digestive tract. Soluble fiber, on the other hand, dissolves in water and helps lower blood cholesterol and glucose levels. Oats, peas, beans, wheat bran, carrots and barley are just a few significant sources of dietary fiber.
Get Adequate Protein
Your body’s secondary source of energy, after carbohydrates, is protein. Because excess protein cannot be stored, it is used for energy or converted to fat. Protein provides your body with energy and also supplies the building blocks to make new tissues and replenish fluids. Fish, poultry, eggs, beans, nuts and meats are sources of protein which should serve as 12 to 15 percent of your daily calories.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Functions of Water in the Body
- American Dietetic Association: Are You Drinking Enough?
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Carbohydrates
- MayoClinic.com; Carbohydrates: How Carbs Fit into a Healthy Diet; February 2011
- MayoClinic.com; Dietary Fiber: Essential for a Healthy Diet; November 2009
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: Sports Nutrition
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