The Importance of Nutrition
As stated by WHO, nutrition is a key component to overall good health throughout each stage of life. Proper nutrition ensures maximum maternal health, safer pregnancy and childbirth, improved health and development of infants and children, reduced risk of diseases like diabetes and heart disease, and longevity. In addition, every aspect of our body relies on nutrition to function properly, from our immune system to our brain health. That is why creating a nutrition plan is so important!
Basics of a Nutrition Plan
A nutrition plan is an outline that helps you stay on track when it comes to your eating habits. In its most basic form, your nutrition plan should include a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and micronutrients. Examples of the nutrients that have been identified as critical for overall health include:
- vitamin C
- vitamin D
- vitamin B6 & B12
- beta carotene
- zinc
- selenium
- iron
- Copper
- Folate
Adequate amounts of these vitamins and minerals can be consumed naturally and are found in a variety of plant and animal foods. Therefore, your goal should be to shop and consume the foods found on the outside isles of the grocery store. Remember, fresh is best! Additional tips for your nutrition plan include:
- Consume the rainbow when it comes to fruits and vegetables
- Eat more whole grains and beans
- Do not skip meals
- Eat 1-3 small snacks a day (between meals)
- Limit fast foods
- Limit red and processed meat
- Limit sugar sweetened drinks
- Limit alcohol consumption
- Don’t rely on supplements
A Tailored Nutrition Plan
If your doctor has addressed a specific health concern for creating a nutrition plan or if you are not sure what your goals are when it comes to health and nutrition, we recommend consulting with a Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDN). RDN’s are the most valuable and credible source of timely, scientifically-based food and nutrition information. They are also the food and nutrition experts who can translate the science of nutrition into practical solutions for healthy living. Consulting with an RDN is the best way to ensure you create the best plan for your specific needs.
This is a topic we covered in our October edition of HD Heartbeat. If you are interested in signing up for our monthly newsletter, contact us today!
