Good Nutrition for Overall Health

Good nutrition is underestimated by some women. When you are eating a diet full of healthful foods, you are less likely to suffer from fatigue, common ailments and that general feeling of being “down” or “under the weather.”

Eat a sensible diet and your body will cope better with the pressures and the pollutants of our modern everyday lives. The right kind of foods will improve your performance at work, in exercise and in your everyday activities. And, of course, your appearance will benefit, too.

Which foods are the best choices?

Carbohydrates (such as potatoes and whole grains), dark, leafy greens, low-glycemic fruits (such as berries, apples, and kiwis), wild caught fish (such as salmon) and raw nuts and seeds.

These foods are rich in vitamins and antioxidants that neutralize the affects of “free radicals” that attack our bodies causing cell and tissue damage.

Mediterranean style diets and the diets of people living in Arctic areas consuming lots of oily fish are proven to help lessen cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart problems.

Foods to reduce or avoid?

If your diet is normally supplemented by ready made meals or take-away foods, snacks, pies, cakes and biscuits you will be eating too much processed food containing preservatives, salt and sugar. These foods do are “calorie dense,” meaning they provide more calories in ratio to nutrients. You will probably feel the difference in your moods, appearance and overall mental function when eating these types of foods.

It is a myth that we need sugar to supplement our energy levels; it works only as a very short-term boost as it causes the blood sugar to spike, sending you in a downward spiral of fatigue and irritability when processed by the body. White sugar is also considered an anti-nutrient because it actually leaches nutrients from your body as it’s digested!

I often am asked about drinking wine in regards to eating a healthful diet. A glass of wine with your meal is fine. The occasional glass (organic wine is best because it doesn’t contain sulfites) is shown in studies to reduce blood pressure and relieve stress. However, overindulgence in alcohol consumption can interfere with functions of the liver, creating a build-up of toxins.

We all long to feel and look good and one of the most beneficial ways to reach this goal is by choosing the right kind of diet. Begin thinking of food as a fuel to empower and enhance your performance. When you start to eat healthily on a consistent basis, you’ll notice it positively effects your outward appearance, too!