Eating nutritiously is one of the best things a person can do for their body, along with getting adequate sleep and exercise, and self-care. When people think about healthy eating, the term “diet” comes to mind. That word popularly refers to the kinds of food someone eats or a special course of eating to include restricted foods. There are many reasons why people embark on “diet” plans. Two of the most popular are losing weight and gaining health benefits. Often, they go hand in hand as healthy diets can help people shed excess weight.
Most doctors endorse eating a balance of nutritious foods to include vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, legumes, low-fat dairy, some lean meats, some fish, and healthy oils. They may also suggest limiting or restricting intake of less healthy foods to include things like fatty red meats, processed foods, and those dense in unhealthy fats or an abundance of sugar or salt. Adequate water intake is also an important part of the human diet. However, it’s important to note that individual health factors and risks should be the main driver of diet plans. There are also some fundamental factors to consider. In addition to individual medical requirements, other considerations should include a person’s height, weight, age, caloric intake requirements, and lifestyle, and overall goals in addition to individual medical requirements. Be sure to factor in your workouts so that your diet leaves you feeling energized and with the appropriate calorie burn.
Before beginning any new diet plan, first, do your research to determine if the diet you are considering is scientifically and medically reviewed and fact-checked for safety by legitimate sources. Trustworthy websites such as WebMD and Healthline can offer an abundance of valuable information. Second, talk to your doctor to see if the plan you wish to follow is right for your specific health needs. Third, ensure that you have the mental support needed for success. Those prone to emotional eating should seek out therapy to gain proper counseling and support.
Also, understand that there are some warning signs that diets may be unhealthy. These may include some of the following:
- Unrealistic promises such as taking magical pills for immediate dramatic weight loss.
- Excluding major food groups that are generally good for you.
- Feels too strict and makes you unhappy.
- Dramatic restriction of calories beyond what’s adequate.
- Ignores your health conditions such as diabetes or heart disease.
- Promises to cure you of health problems.
- Pushes too much exercise that can put you at risk.
- Calls for you to obsess with what you’re eating.
- Pushes tons of supplements.
- Calls for you to skip meals.
- Takes the joy out of eating.
- Costs a lot of money to maintain.
- Forces you to sign-up for an extended period.
- Leaves you feeling bad physically or mentally.
A healthy diet is a vital part of one’s overall wellness. Dangers of a poor diet can lead to malnutrition, which has serious health consequences to include symptoms such as fatigue, malaise, dizziness, muscle weakness, electrolyte imbalances, and much more. Diets should be well balanced and make you feel motivated and strong, not zapped of energy. Medical doctors provide nutritional advice as part of your health care routine, so be sure to take full advantage of this benefit. Thus, whenever considering dietary changes, whether it be trying a new diet or one that’s been around for a long time, it’s best to run it by your trusted medical professional who is familiar with your health. This important step will not only reduce your chances of taking on an unhealthy diet but will ensure that the plan you are embarking on is safe and right for you.
This article is purely informational and is not intended as a substitute for medical advice.