The importance of nutrition for your overall physical and mental health

The importance of nutrition for your overall physical and mental health

The science is very clear: we can definitely manage our own health through the things we eat every day.

Did you know that scientists are actually looking for ways to protect astronauts from radiation through nutritional supplements? Radiation hazards in space pose a huge threat to the safety of astronauts and cause the formation of free radicals. However, through a special diet, astronauts can counteract the effects of these free radicals.

The same principle applies to us “normal” people. Free radicals form everywhere in our body due to all kinds of environmental attacks. It's good that these days more and more people are becoming aware of their lifestyle and changing it to reap the benefits of a healthy diet and exercise.

If you want to have a healthy body and mind, understanding nutrition is of utmost importance. Nature, in its infinite wisdom, has given us everything we need to promote growth, immunity, mental alertness, physical strength, etc. Without a basic understanding of nutrition, it will be very difficult, if not impossible, to establish a diet that contains the necessary elements that the body needs.

What exactly does understanding nutrition entail?

To put it simply: everything you take in has an impact on your body. So you need to make sure what you eat contains the elements your body needs. What your body needs are carbohydrates, fat, protein and, last but not least, water. The amount in which each of these elements is consumed greatly influences how you feel, react, and age

1. Carbohydrates – This is the body’s number one source of energy. Our liver and the muscles of our body need adequate intake of carbohydrates to stay healthy. You can find two main types of carbohydrates (or carbohydrates as some people prefer to call them):

– simple carbohydrates that are predominantly sweet in nature (e.g. fructose, sucrose, glucose, etc.) and

– complex carbohydrates that are starch-based (found in corn, brown rice, wheat, etc.).

2. Fat – must be taken in the required amount to moderate metabolism and protect vital organs. However, too much fat in your daily diet has the opposite effect. The two main fats are

– Cholesterol: You can get cholesterol from seafood, eggs, dairy products and meat.

– Triglycerides: saturated, polysaturated and monosaturated fats, they affect your weight and heart function.

3. Protein – Without protein, the body cannot grow or repair itself. The non-essential amino acids are made by the body itself (hence the term non-essential, the body can provide its own), while the essential amino acids would have to be introduced into the body through eating the right foods.

4. Water – the body needs a lot of water: at least eight glasses a day. This amount helps the body eliminate toxins, fight dehydration, prevent heat stroke, moderate body temperature, digestion and so many other functions. We all know that people can go without food for up to three weeks. However, they will perish in just 48 hours without water.

The right kind of balanced diet directly contributes to the health of individuals and communities. Clinical research and evidence gathered through laboratory testing and field work support the concept's relevance to the practice of clinical medicine, dentistry, and public health.