Fresh start – of the blog and of the new healthy life
February 21, 2009 Healthy food
Unlike few decades ago, our society today is busy and on the go at all times. It’s much simpler to stop by and get some fast food and go on, than to prepare a healthy meal. But, a juicy hamburger dripping with special sauce topped with cheese is not exactly considered a healthy meal.
Staying healthy and eating right is a lifestyle that many of us should consider. There are many reasons for this: those who eat healthy- live longer, look younger, they are also healthier and, finally, they look better.
Many would say: “OK, I’d try, but how can I suddenly change all my habits, acquired during my whole life?” It is hard, but healthy eating usually means making very small changes in our previous way of eating and preparing food. It is essential that we have 5-6 smaller meals during the day, rather than 2-3 rich meals. Also, we should have balanced coverage of all five essential food groups:
1. Grain (bread, cereal, rice, pasta…)
2. Fruits and vegetables
3. Milk and dairy products (milk, yoghurt, cheese…)
4. Meat and proteins (meat, fish, poultry…)
5. Fats, oils and sugar (butter, oil, sweets…)
The first group is the source of carbohydrates, which are the main source of energy. Also, this food group is rich in non-starch polysaccharides (i.e. dietary fiber), excellent for our digestive system, and in prevention from some serious disease, such as heart disease, hemorrhoids, certain types of cancer, etc.
The second group of food supplies us with fibers, healthy sugars and a lot of vitamins and minerals. All of them take part in different metabolisms, prevent different types of disease, and benefit our organism as a whole.
The third group supplies us with calcium which enstrenghtens our bones. We should be very careful with this food group, because either less or more than permitted can cause problems and disorders in our body.
The fourth group supplies our body with proteins, iron and zinc. Proteins carry out numerous metabolisms in our body, are vital for the looks of our hair and nails, and they are beneficial for our immune and blood systems. This group has a plenty of B-vitamins, especially B12 (vital for cell division) and B3 (used for energy production and production of lipoproteins).
The fifth food group should not be called “healthy” at all, but it is necessary, in a way. It provides us with “essential fatty acids” and with energy. It should be eaten in small amounts and separately.
I know this was boring, but it is necessary and the first step towards “healthy way of life”. I can assure you that my future articles would be more practical and useful. ‘Till then, try to remember these few advice.
Cheers!
