5 Essentials Nutrients Of A Healthy Diet

By Author: Wellbeing
Total Articles: 12
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A balanced diet comprises of important components like proteins, carbs, fibre, healthy fats, vitamins and minerals. While components like vitamins and minerals can be fed to the body through external factors such as multivitamin supplement, a balanced diet is the onl source of nutrition when it comes to the rest.

1.Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are one of the most important components of a healthy diet. The main function of carbohydrates is providing your body with energy to perform day to day activities.
The carbohydrates you consume are broken down into glucose which ultimately enters the bloodstream. This glucose helps the cells in your body perform metabolic tasks which makes it one of the most crucial parts of a balanced diet. Excess glucose is then stored in the liver and muscles which provides energy to the body in between meals and during physical activities. A few carbohydrates rich foods are whole-wheat bread, brown rice etc.

2.Proteins
Proteins help the body repair cells and generate new ones. It’s also important for the growth and development of the body. Proteins like enzymes aid biochemical reactions in the body which further facilitate various body functions like digestion, energy production, contraction of muscles and more. Meats like chicken and beef, in addition to dairy products are a rich source of high-quality proteins. On the other hand, vegetarians depend on plant proteins like pulses, soy products, quinoa and nuts for their daily protein intake. Since plant proteins are considered incomplete proteins, vegans and vegetarians should depend on a variety of food sources to get an adequate blend of amino acids.

3.Vitamins and minerals
Vitamins and minerals are the building blocks of the body and are termed under the term micronutrients. Vitamins are essential for energy production, immune functions and more, while minerals protect bone health and growth of the body. In a balanced diet, fruits and vegetables are the main sources of natural vitamins in the body, one can also make use of best multivitamin supplements in the market if they run the risk of deficiencies. This should only be done after consulting a doctor.

4.Fats
Not all fat is bad. This nutrient is another important part of a balanced diet. It helps the body in energy protection along with aiding in cell growth and development. It also helps keep the body warm, helps in hormone production and absorption of some nutrients in the body. A healthy diet limits the intake of saturated and trans fats while prioritising the monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats (also called the good fats). One should incorporate more fruits, vegetables, lentils, legumes, poultry and low-fat dairy products in their diets in order to ensure they’re consuming the best quality of diet.

5.Water
One can go a few days without food but not water. It is the most important nutrient that your body needs because it aids the protection of major organs and tissues in your body, it lubricates the joints and regulates body temperature. One should consume at least 8 glasses of water in a day.