So you’ve decided to make a serious change in your diet. Good for you! Now the question remains; how do you go about doing it? While nutritionists and dieticians will definitely tell you that, in order to have a healthy body, mind, and spirit, you need to eat healthy. However, what are those specific things that will help you achieve such a goal? What are the key nutrients that your body needs for a balanced diet? Let’s take a look at all of them in detail.
Fats
Fats are an essential part of a healthy diet, and they’re also delicious. However, there are two important things to keep in mind when it comes to fats. Firstly, you need to understand how much of them your body needs. And secondly, you need to know the different types of fats that are out there.
Proteins
Proteins are the building blocks of the human body. They help with the growth and repair of tissues, and are therefore essential for all living creatures. Proteins are found in every living thing, including plants. The most common sources of protein are meat and dairy products. In a balanced diet, you should try to get between 10 and 35% of your daily calorie intake from protein.
Carbohydrates
These are the most common source of energy for your body and brain. Carbohydrates come in a variety of sources, such as rice, wheat, corn, and potatoes. In a balanced diet, you should get between 45 and 65% of your daily calorie intake from carbohydrates.
Vitamins
Vitamins are organic micronutrients. Each vitamin has a specific job, as well as other general functions, in the body. Vitamins are also essential for your body, meaning that you need to consume them in your diet, as your body cannot produce them on its own. Vitamins are found in a variety of healthy foods, such as vegetables, fruits, dairy products, freeze dried meals, and fish. In a balanced diet, you should try to get 10% of your daily calorie intake from vitamins.
Minerals
Minerals are inorganic micronutrients. They are used in your body for a variety of functions, from bone development to hormone production. Unlike vitamins, your body is able to produce minerals on its own. There are a few different minerals that are essential for your diet. They are Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Potassium, and Zinc. In a balanced diet, you should try to get 5% of your daily calorie intake from minerals.
Conclusion
If you want to be healthy, then you need to eat a balanced diet. While some specific diets may seem like they will help you lose weight, or give you energy they aren’t healthy in the long term. In order to have a balanced diet, you need to eat nutritious foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. If you’re unable to find fresh ingredients, the next best alternative is to choose freeze dried meals – these are specially prepared to preserve all their essential nutrients, whilst also allowing you to store them for long periods of time without any deterioration.