subject: A Healthy Diet: Know What's Best [print this page] Theres a lot of concern about eating the right foods and living well. Whether you want to lose weight or not, diet changes can be hard to change. From heart-healthy foods to food that improve your eyesight or skin, there's a wide world full of the best nature has to offer.
A healthy diet should always begin with a selection of natural foods. That tip about not eating ingredients that you can't pronounce is pretty accurate. Whole and fresh foods are best. To keep your heart in good shape, a steady diet of fruits and vegetables is key. Most people regularly eat apples, bananas and oranges, but sometimes you need some delicious variety. Papaya is full of calcium, potassium, magnesium and other healthy nutrients. Substitutions are often a good idea to add variety and increase your nutrient intake: sweet potatoes for white potatoes, spinach for lettuce. When you're in a rut, consider looking at vegetarian cooking resources to learn some intriguing food ideas.
Are you thinking about protein now? Fish, beef and poultry aren't all bad for you. Don't skip out on the protein; it's actually good for you. Fish like tuna and salmon are wonderful for their omega-3 fatty acids, good fats. Beans and legumes are other good non-meat sources of protein as well as nuts like walnuts and almonds. Fish, nuts and beans provide phytonutrients and help fulfill you without filling your arteries and body with dangerous fat and cholesterol.
If you think you have to skip dessert to be healthy, think again. You read that correctly; you should treat yourself. It is true that foods like red wine and dark chocolate can be good for you. These two foods contain nutrients called polyphenols that can reduce bad cholesterol, protect blood vessels and lower blood pressure. Even with less healthy desserts and snacks, the key is to enjoy them in moderation or sparingly. Part of a healthy attitude about food is to allow yourself to enjoy it rather than obsess over it.
To begin living and eating well, you should start by making a few easy adjustments to your lifestyle. Heart health begins with eating a healthy diet, but exercise and finding time to enjoy yourself are just as meaningful.
