How exactly is healthy eating done? Basically, this refers to following a balanced diet based on your age, height and weight and activity level. Whether you have a very active or sedentary lifestyle, your calorie intake should match your body’s needs.

An average healthy adult should not go less than 1,500 calories a day since going too low can make you deficient not only in calories, but also in nutrients. However, it is worth noting that eating a calorie-dense meal does not necessarily mean you are getting all the nutrients you need when the food is not complete with vitamins, minerals and all the macro and micro nutrients.

Ideally, you should consume fresh and organic produce the most, which are loaded with minerals, vitamins, antioxidants and trace minerals needed by your body to thrive. Also, it is important to go easy on high carbs such as white rice, white pasta, white bread and white sugar. These are metabolized quickly by the body, and you may feel hungry most of the time because of these refined foods. You are better off with whole grains instead of these refined food items since the former is loaded with fiber, protein and key nutrients.

Be sure that you eat foods with good amount of healthy fats including avocado, coconuts, fatty fish, olive oil and almonds. These strengthen your immune system, enhance cognition and prevent cardiovascular disease. Munching on nuts and seeds, which are high in healthy fats can be perfect for snacktime, and you are also sparing yourself from going overboard on your calorie intake.

With healthy eating, your body will get stronger and more capable of handling stress and fighting infections naturally. Combined with daily exercise and natural stress management techniques, a good diet will yield to total health and improved performance at all times.

Dr. Katie Mercer

Dr. Katie Mercer

Naturopathic Doctor

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