Do You Know What You Are What You Eat?
Food is any material consumed to supply essential nutrition for an individual organism. In humans, food is generally of animal, plant or microbial origin, and usually contains various essential nutrients, including proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals or iron. During the course of a day, a person may eat two small meals or six slices of bread. Each type of food has a different effect on the body. Foods that are rich in calories and sugar are called solid food, while foods that contain complex carbohydrates and protein are known as digestible or partially digested food. Foods that consist mainly of fat, protein, water, vitamins and carbohydrates are called organic food.
The type of food eaten is primarily responsible for the amount of weight one gains. People who eat large amounts of junk food or processed food gain more than people who eat a balanced diet. Processed food contains high levels of fat, sodium, sugar and other preservatives, while nutritious vegetables and fruits can be found more cheaply. Juices and drinks from citrus fruits, which are high in water and fiber, are a healthy alternative to regular soft drinks.
French fries, also known as fried potatoes, are usually prepared by deep-frying potatoes in oil. A thin layer of batter is placed over the potatoes, and they are fried in the oil until crisp and golden. Some French fries are made with onion and garlic; others include ham, cheese, vinegar and other ingredients. French fries are a source of dietary fiber. Soft French fries are better for the heart than the deep-fried variety, and can be substituted with potato chips for a snack.
The American diet is heavy in refined grains and processed food, especially soda pop, junk food, frozen and dried fruits, white bread and pasta. Eating a balanced diet of vegetables, whole grains, fruits, nuts, seeds and beans keeps the weight off. Overeating is often a problem, as many people combine these foods with alcoholic beverages. It may be difficult to eat less food than you like, especially if you enjoy a big portion of food that contains sugar, salt and fat. Adding more fruits, nuts and vegetables to your diet can make it easier to lose weight. Limit your consumption of soda pop, chocolate milk, pastries, chips and cheese.
If you eat real food whole food, it usually contains a higher level of nutrients and fiber than processed foods. A well-balanced diet of whole foods can help reduce the risks of high cholesterol and blood pressure, diabetes and other diseases. Health benefits of eating whole food include strong bones, increased energy, stronger immune system, more color and less fat. More importantly, fruits and vegetables contain phytochemicals that are considered to be powerful antioxidants that help protect the body against cancer-causing substances.
The message ‘you are what you eat’ is important for everyone to understand. Real, whole food is easy to find, inexpensive and delicious. It makes a powerful statement for anyone who is trying to live a healthy lifestyle. If you want to feel or look your best, you need to eat healthy foods. Organic foods are just as good for you as the fresh produce that you buy at the market.