The 5 Basic Principles of Nutrition

What is Nutrition?

Nutrition is the process of the body taking in nutrients from the foods we eat. The foods we eat determine which nutrients our bodies will receive and in what quantities. Nutrients help our bodies to make energy, build tissues and maintain them and regulate the body processes. Eating a healthy diet comprising a variety of high-nutrient foods makes us more likely to enjoy good health than eating eat a poor diet lacking in nutrients. Let’s have an overview of the nutrition principles that can help you improve your quality of life and feel great.

 1. Water is essential for life

For most people, drinking water happens only when they’re thirsty. Not feeling thirsty does not mean your body is fully hydrated. You should drink water throughout the day to prevent your body from becoming dehydrated. Doctors order a daily intake of at least 8 glasses of water. Water is your friend, as it can benefit you in so many ways. Here are a few;

• Water flushes out toxins
• Water enhances mood
• Water aids in digestion
• Water relieves tiredness
• Water helps with weight loss

You want all this, don’t you? So, what’s stopping you from drinking a little bit more water today?

 2. Avoid taking processed foods

Processed foods are more harmful to your body than they are useful, as they contain all sorts of unhealthy ingredients. You can substitute them with whole grains and fresh foods, and cut out empty carbs and fried foods. To give your body more stable energy, try eating 100% whole wheat foods. These include whole-grain pasta, brown rice, and whole wheat bread, just to mention a few.

 3. At times, more can be less

You’re probably wondering, ‘how on earth is that possible?’ but with food, it can be. Generally, taking three meals a day is the basic way of life, but why not try 5-6 mini-meals instead? Doing this is more beneficial to your metabolic activity. Space your meals out throughout the day by taking small snacks in between meals. This will help you to control your portion sizes and eat less since you won’t be starved.

4. Eat a well-balanced breakfast

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, so try not to skip it! Taking a well-balanced breakfast daily is very beneficial to your body. It boosts your metabolism and starts your day off right. For example, having a boiled egg, a cup of coffee, whole grain toast, fresh fruit, and a cup of yogurt will make you feel full and stimulated throughout the morning. It will help you avoid snacking on unhealthy things like potato crisps.

5. Incorporate fruits or veggies into your meals

Fruits and vegetables contain beneficial natural anti-oxidants, minerals, and vitamins that work wonders for the body. Some of the benefits of fruits and vegetables to the body are;

• They help reduce the risk of heart disease.
• They can protect you against certain types of cancers.
• Fruits and vegetables are naturally low in fat.
• They are filling but low in carbs.
• Fruits and veggies contain fiber to keep enhance your bowel movement.

A healthy lifestyle is simple and it begins with you. These simple nutrition principles are beneficial to your life in many ways and following them will ensure you feel and look great. Kick-start your journey to better health today, with our Human Nutrition & Dietetics course.