Which foods are healthy?

Healthy food serves several essential needs for our well-being. Let’s explore these benefits: Nutrient Supply: Healthy foods provide a rich array of essential nutrients that our bodies require for proper functioning. These include vitamins, minerals, proteins, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. For instance: Fruits and Vegetables: They offer vitamins (like vitamin C and A), minerals (such as potassium and magnesium), and dietary fiber. Whole Grains: These provide complex carbohydrates, B vitamins, and fiber. Nuts and Seeds: They contain healthy fats, protein, and micronutrients. Legumes (Lentils, Beans): High in protein, fiber, and iron. Disease Prevention: A healthy diet helps protect against various noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), including: Heart Disease: By reducing saturated fats and cholesterol intake. Diabetes: By maintaining stable blood sugar levels. Cancer: Certain nutrients and antioxidants may lower cancer risk. Stroke: By managing blood pressure and cholesterol. Obesity: Proper nutrition helps maintain a healthy weight. Energy Balance: Consuming the right amount of calories ensures an energy balance. This means: Energy Intake: The calories we consume should match our energy expenditure. Healthy Weight: A balanced diet helps prevent unhealthy weight gain or loss. Salt and Sugar Control: Salt (Sodium): Limiting salt intake to less than 5 grams per day helps prevent hypertension and reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke. Sugar: Keeping free sugar intake below 10% of total energy intake is crucial. Ideally, it should be less than 5% for additional health benefits. Cognitive Development and Long-Term Health: Breastfeeding: Early healthy dietary practices, such as breastfeeding, foster healthy growth and cognitive development. Long-Term Benefits: Proper nutrition reduces the risk of becoming overweight, obese, or developing NCDs later in life. Remember, a healthy diet includes fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and whole grains.