When it comes to leading a healthy lifestyle, diet plays a major role. What we eat can impact our energy levels, mood, and overall wellbeing. That’s why it’s so important to make sure that we are eating a well-balanced diet. But what does that mean exactly?
A well-balanced diet is one that includes a variety of nutrient-rich foods from all the food groups. It’s important to eat a mix of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, proteins, and healthy fats to ensure that we are getting all the nutrients our bodies need.
Not sure how to get started with meal planning? Here are eight guidelines for creating a well-balanced diet:
- Eat breakfast every day: Breakfast is the most important meal of the day! It gives us the energy and nutrients we need to start our day off right. Be sure to include protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs in your breakfast to help keep you feeling full and focused all morning long.
- Incorporate more plants into your diet: Plants are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are essential for good health. Aim to fill half your plate with fruits and vegetables at every meal.
- Choose whole grains over processed ones: Whole grains contain more fiber and nutrients than their processed counterparts. When choosing breads, pastas, or other grain-based foods, opt for whole wheat or other whole grain options whenever possible.
- Limit sugar intake: Too much sugar can lead to weight gain and other health problems such as diabetes or heart disease. When grocery shopping, be sure to check labels for added sugars and limit sugary snacks and desserts to occasional treats.
- Get enough protein: Protein is necessary for cell growth and repair, as well as maintaining muscle mass. Include lean protein sources such as chicken or fish at least once per day in your meals or snacks.
- Don’t forget about healthy fats: Healthy fats are an important part of a well-balanced diet – they help improve cholesterol levels, promote heart health, and provide energy and essential nutrients (vitamins A, D, E, and K). Good sources of healthy fats include avocados, nuts & seeds, olive oil, and fish oil supplements.
- Drink plenty of water: Water is crucial for flushing out toxins from our bodies, delivering oxygen to our cells, and regulating body temperature; aim to drink 8 glasses per day (64 ounces).
- Visit your doctor regularly : Last but not least – don’t forget to visit your doctor regularly! They will be able to give you tailored advice based on your individual health needs and can help you create a nutrition plan that’s right for you