There is no lack of nutrition data available to those who want to learn about health. Federal guidelines for a balanced diet and labels on every food product sold in the United States provide information. For more information, or for alternative views, there are too many nutritional guides and online sites to assimilate.
If you are a beginner, the federal guidelines will provide a basic understanding of good versus bad fats, how much protein is recommended, what vitamins and minerals are essential, and how much fiber is needed on a daily basis. Most experts feel that a balanced diet of whole foods is the proper foundation for health and well-being.
Things are complicated by the fact that everyone is an individual, with specific needs that might be different from those of the general public or even members of the same family. For instance, whole wheat bread could be a good source of fiber, B vitamins, and calcium for those who can digest wheat gluten without problems. For others, even one slice can cause gastric distress.
If a person has a sensitivity or an allergy to certain foods, they will probably be unable to absorb nutrients from that food. In fact, a severe case can mean that a person can eat a lot but actually suffer from malnutrition. Some processed food has too much sodium, an overload of preservatives, artificial flavors and colors, and are loaded with fat or sugar.
It is important to know what is in the food you plan to eat, in order to avoid empty calories or allergens. You should also know where it comes from. Produce that is imported might have been grown in an area with lax control over pesticide and herbicide use. If it comes from a country with strict controls, it could be premium fare. Remember that produce from far away was probably ripened during shipment, sprayed with fungicide, and could have lost much of its nutritional value.
There are many books and online sites, often written by a medical doctor. Herbalists and natural food advocates also have valuable information to share. Sources may differ greatly in content. One expert may advocate whole grains as a dietary foundation, while another may suggest avoiding grains altogether. Some say fat is to be eliminated, while others say it is necessary for energy, mental alertness, and proper development in children.
The best practice is to read as much reputable nutrition data as you can, to get a consensus of opinion. Then try some of the programs for yourself. If you are sensitive to wheat or dairy, you will soon know. If you must eliminate certain foods to feel your best, make sure to find acceptable sources of the nutrients you will be missing. The more you investigate and experiment, the more you will feel sure of satisfying your own personal needs.
If you are a beginner, the federal guidelines will provide a basic understanding of good versus bad fats, how much protein is recommended, what vitamins and minerals are essential, and how much fiber is needed on a daily basis. Most experts feel that a balanced diet of whole foods is the proper foundation for health and well-being.
Things are complicated by the fact that everyone is an individual, with specific needs that might be different from those of the general public or even members of the same family. For instance, whole wheat bread could be a good source of fiber, B vitamins, and calcium for those who can digest wheat gluten without problems. For others, even one slice can cause gastric distress.
If a person has a sensitivity or an allergy to certain foods, they will probably be unable to absorb nutrients from that food. In fact, a severe case can mean that a person can eat a lot but actually suffer from malnutrition. Some processed food has too much sodium, an overload of preservatives, artificial flavors and colors, and are loaded with fat or sugar.
It is important to know what is in the food you plan to eat, in order to avoid empty calories or allergens. You should also know where it comes from. Produce that is imported might have been grown in an area with lax control over pesticide and herbicide use. If it comes from a country with strict controls, it could be premium fare. Remember that produce from far away was probably ripened during shipment, sprayed with fungicide, and could have lost much of its nutritional value.
There are many books and online sites, often written by a medical doctor. Herbalists and natural food advocates also have valuable information to share. Sources may differ greatly in content. One expert may advocate whole grains as a dietary foundation, while another may suggest avoiding grains altogether. Some say fat is to be eliminated, while others say it is necessary for energy, mental alertness, and proper development in children.
The best practice is to read as much reputable nutrition data as you can, to get a consensus of opinion. Then try some of the programs for yourself. If you are sensitive to wheat or dairy, you will soon know. If you must eliminate certain foods to feel your best, make sure to find acceptable sources of the nutrients you will be missing. The more you investigate and experiment, the more you will feel sure of satisfying your own personal needs.
