Proper nutrition has a positive effect on physical and mental health. It is not enough to ensure that we are strong and healthy, but it is a key factor in wellness, romance and health.
What we consume doesn’t just affect our silhouette. It is a source of energy and building blocks. Foods regulate metabolism and various hormones, such as insulin. They moisturize the body and maintain good bowel function. They have effects on various brain chemicals called neurotransmitters (e.g. serotonin, dopamine) that regulate mood, psychology and activity.
Essential ingredients of all foods are carbohydrates, proteins and fats. But what makes the difference is their composition and quality (in other words, not all carbohydrates are the same, etc.).
In addition, there is a variety of other substances contained in various foods (such as vitamins and trace elements) that are absolutely essential for the proper functioning of the body, defense and self-repair mechanisms at the cellular level. The latest features are a popular subject of scientific study (in the fight against cancer and longevity) but also of public engagement in social media. Words like antioxidants and super foods are, more or less, known to everyone.
Diet and nutrition deal with the details, tailor the diets to each individual’s needs and personalize the instructions.
Let’s look at some typical examples of how certain foods affect the body:
Foods that contain simple or processed carbohydrates (sugar, glucose, fructose, etc.) cause a sharp fluctuation of blood sugar, leading to faster mental and physical fatigue. In contrast, foods such as whole grains offer slower energy release and smoother glucose and insulin levels. Increased residue helps the bowel function well and increases the feeling of satiety.
Eggs contain large quantities of high quality lean protein (in egg white) that helps stabilize sugar, fight edema and restore muscle. They also contain omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins D and B complex (helps with memory and depression problems).
Fish such as salmon and sardines, nuts (such as walnuts, linseed, sesame seeds) and avocados are rich sources of “good” fatty acids (omega-3s) that are essential for heart health. They also help with the menopause phase and have been associated with a reduced risk of postpartum depression.
Tryptophan helps the body produce the “substance of happiness”, serotonin. Included in chocolate, banana and pineapple, chicken and cottage cheese, asparagus, green bean soybeans, linseed and oats.
Antioxidant foods (blocking free radicals that cause DNA damage, inflammatory diseases and aging) are mainly fruits (black grape, bilberry, raspberry, grapefruit juice, plum, kiwi, apple, kiwi, peach, banana, pear, avocado) and vegetables (cabbage, spinach, beetroot, roasted potato, pepper, beans, cauliflower, onion, eggplant).
