In nutrition, the diet is the quantity of nutrient ingested by an individual or other living organism over a period of time. The typical diet of humans consists of carbohydrates, protein, fat and some vitamins. A diet that is well balanced minimizes the risk for many types of chronic diseases including obesity, type II diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and some cancers. The ideal diet needs to be altered according to the existing conditions of health of the individual. This can be done by practicing a regular exercise routine, giving up some vices such as smoking, and eating a healthy diet consisting of fibers, fruits, vegetables, cereals and whole grain products. Certain foods are good for health and others for weight loss; it is always better to eat a balanced combination of healthy foods.
Diets that consist mainly of animal products with little or no refined sugars, grains, legumes and fats are considered to be low-fat diets. These diets reduce the risk for heart diseases, certain cancers, diabetes, tooth decay, and other chronic diseases. Low fat dairy products, low fat poultry and meat, eggs, and fruits and vegetables (especially dark green leafy vegetables such as kale, cabbage, tomatoes, and bell pepper) are rich in dietary fiber. The British Medical Journal reported that the intake of dietary fiber was positively associated with a decreased risk of stroke and coronary artery disease.
Diets that consist mostly of red meats, processed meats, sugar-laden soft drinks and other food stuffs that cause obesity should be avoided. People who are on diet plans to lose weight should avoid consuming all these unhealthy food stuffs except if they are one hundred percent required by their diet plan. Sugar is found in almost all processed foods in different forms like syrups, cakes, jellies, potato chips, doughnuts, and candies. It has been observed that people who are on diets to lose weight tend to consume more of the sugary foods than those people who do not have any diet plans.
Sugar is used as a cheap source of food energy. A dieter’s body tends to require more of this sugar than others. Processed and fried snacks like crisps, biscuits, chips, pretzels, and hard-boiled eggs contain large amounts of this unnecessary sugar. You should try to eat more raw vegetables, salads, and fruits. This diet requires you to avoid eating too much of this processed junk food.
Carbohydrates are the main source of energy in your daily diet. They make up about 80 percent of your daily calorie intake. Foods that are rich in carbohydrates provide your body with necessary nutrients that it needs for a balanced diet. You should try to include bread, cereals, pasta, rice, and potatoes in your diet menu.
Low-fat dairy products, fruits and vegetables, nuts, whole grains, and lean meats are recommended. You should avoid refined sugar, salt, fatty oils, salt substitutes, tinned foods, and processed foods. Following a healthy diet includes eating healthy foods, which are the best source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.