The Science Behind Healthy eating

To achieve a healthy lifestyle, it is very crucial to have more than only a balanced and healthy diet. When we consume food, our body breaks it down into basic components. These components are carbs, proteins, and fats. These are the three pillars of essential nutrients that our bodies need to thrive. When we consume foods these three macronutrients are absorbed into the bloodstream and distributed accordingly to the body parts that need it. These macronutrients are the necessary fuel that our bodies need to have a sufficient amount of energy. If we do not have enough of these essential nutrients then our bodies will be unable to support growth and repair themselves from injuries. If there is an imbalance in these nutrients then it can disrupt bodily functions such as the fine motor skills we use daily.

In addition, vitamins and minerals contribute significantly to our health. The micronutrients, though required in small quantities, impact our well-being greatly. For instance, vitamin C is vital for the immune system, and calcium plays a crucial role in bone and teeth health. To get sufficient vitamins and minerals, we must ensure our diet includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Research supports the benefits of healthy eating habits. Studies have consistently shown that a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can reduce the risk of developing various chronic diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers.

Healthy eating is not just consuming foods that “look” healthy, it is the science of giving the body the most essential macronutrients that it needs. The best way to get efficient at eating a good macronutrient diet is to start by tracking the protein, carbs, and fats in your meals. When we track our meals, then we can compare them to the goals we should be at. The recommended daily intake of macronutrients (proteins, fats, carbs) generally varies depending on your age, weight, and activity level. Some typical guidelines from the 2015 - 2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, it is recommended that You consume 45 - 65% of daily calories should be carbohydrates, 25 - 35% should be fat, and 10 - 30% should be protein. However, depending on what you do daily will greatly influence these numbers. If you are a bodybuilder, then your protein and carb intake will be a lot higher than these recommendations for the average person. However, if you generally are not an athlete, or do a lot of physical activity daily, then following these guidelines will keep you in the healthy range.