Eating food is an activity most of us do at least three times a day. Logically, what we choose to put in our mouths can have an impact on our overall health: we are what we eat. Research on how nutrition influences health has revealed that our dietary habits can provide energy, promote necessary metabolic activities in the body, prevent micronutrient deficiencies, and ward off chronic disease.
Energy
The primary function of food is to provide our bodies with energy. Energy is necessary for the body to carry out any action, from breathing to walking to driving a car. Food contains three macronutrients (carbohydrate, protein and fat) that can be broken down to form energy. Without proper nutrition, we would be unable to capture the energy needed to function.
Vitamin Deficiencies
Moving beyond the macronutrients, food also provides us with vitamins. Vitamins are organic compounds obtained from food that cannot be made by the body. If the body doesn't get enough of a particular vitamin through diet or a supplement, we run the risk of developing deficiencies. While vitamin deficiencies are very rare in the United States because we have an abundant food supply, it's important to note the role of vitamins in health. For example, not getting enough vitamin A can result in night blindness. Also, deficiency in vitamin B12 can cause anemia. Finally, a lack of vitamin D can mean weakened bones.
Mineral Deficiencies
Like vitamins, minerals are obtained through foods and needed in small quantities in comparison to macronutrients. However, although only little is required, minerals play an important role in daily metabolic activities. For example, iron is required to efficiently transport oxygen from the lungs throughout the body. Calcium is required for muscles to work. Magnesium is needed for the body to convert carbohydrates into usable energy.
Chronic Disease
More and more evidence shows that chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer are linked to dietary intake. Excess consumption of saturated fat, sugar and refined carbohydrates, and lack of fruits and vegetables in a diet, may contribute to higher rates of these diseases. In developing the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, the government reviewed several research articles on this relationship, eventually putting out a set of recommendations that emphasized the role of food intake in overall health. Basically, improving the nutritional quality of your diet may be the best way to ward off these illnesses.
Minimizes Effect of Other Problems
People often don't realize the impact of regular healthful eating on their day-to-day health. By following a proper diet, you can ensure a strong immune system that will protect your body from infection. You'll also reap the benefits of clearer skin, stronger nails and shinier hair. Providing your body with adequate nutrition will get you through the day, but giving yourself healthy foods (that have the right balance of vitamins, minerals and macronutrients) will let your body run like a well-oiled machine.
