Eating healthy is one of the most important aspects of living a healthy lifestyle.
Eating a balanced diet that includes a variety of foods from the major food groups helps to ensure proper nutrition and can help to prevent many diseases. However, not all foods are created equal – some are healthier than others. Knowing what makes food unhealthy or healthy can help you make informed choices when it comes to your diet.
Added Sugars and Refined Carbs – Foods high in added sugars, such as candy, sugary drinks, and desserts, tend to be low in nutritional value and can lead to weight gain if eaten in excess. Refined carbohydrates like white bread, pasta, and other processed grains are also low in fiber and other nutrients, making them unhealthy choices.
Trans Fats – Trans fats are found in processed foods like crackers and chips, as well as some types of margarine. Eating trans fats increases your risk of developing heart disease and stroke by raising bad cholesterol levels while lowering good cholesterol levels.
Saturated Fats – Saturated fats should be limited in your diet since they can contribute to high cholesterol levels and an increased risk of heart disease. Foods high in saturated fat include red meat, full-fat dairy products such as cheese and butter, tropical oils like coconut oil and palm oil, processed snacks like chips, fried foods like French fries, etc.
Processed Meats – Processed meats such as bacon, sausage, ham, hot dogs etc., contain preservatives such as nitrates/nitrites which have been linked to an increased risk of cancer.
Healthy Foods – On the flip side there are plenty of healthy options that should be included in a balanced diet for optimal health: fruits & vegetables; whole grains; lean proteins; nuts & seeds; healthy fats from avocado or olive oil; legumes; dairy products (in moderation); fish; eggs etc.
Conclusion:
When it comes to eating healthy it is important to be aware of the various factors that make food unhealthy or healthy so you can make informed decisions about what you eat. Avoiding added sugars, refined carbs, trans fats and saturated fats while including plenty of nutritious options such as fruits & vegetables; whole grains; lean proteins; nuts & seeds; healthy fats from avocado or olive oil; legumes; dairy products (in moderation); fish; eggs etc., is essential for maintaining good health.