The Importance of Nutritional Wellness: A Path to Better Health
The science is clear: diets worldwide should include more whole foods, less added salt and sugar, fewer processed foods, and more fiber (WHO, 2020). Nutritional wellness means the body receives all of the nutrients, vitamins, and minerals it needs to function properly, and these nutrients come from our food choices. Failing to receive proper nutrition means our bodies cannot function properly. Kobylinska et al. (2022) define malnutrition as “a state of the body in which due to insufficient supply or incorrect absorption of essential nutrients, the body composition changes and the body’s functions are impaired.” Impaired body function is the primary cause of most illnesses and diseases. If we don’t nourish our bodies, they will eventually turn on us.
The Impact of Modern Convenience on Nutrition
The modern convenience age has brought many inventions that make life easier and simpler, but the commercialization and industrialization of foods, combined with the convenience of prepackaged, ready-to-eat food products, has created a looming health crisis. Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are foods that have been altered so heavily from their original form that they are no longer real food, and the human body knows the difference. While one snack cake isn't likely to cause negative health outcomes, the long-term habit of consuming grab-and-go food certainly can. There is a direct correlation between long-term consumption of UPFs and negative health outcomes (Gropper, 2023).
The Dangers of Ultra-Processed Foods
Those who consume high amounts of UPFs are at increased risk of non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular disease, coronary heart diseases, cerebrovascular diseases, high blood pressure, diabetes, depression, digestive illnesses and diseases, cancer, inflammation, obesity, asthma and wheezing, frailty, and metabolic syndrome (Chen et al., 2020). These health risks underscore the importance of making better food choices to ensure nutritional wellness.
Steps to Improve Nutritional Wellness
Increase Whole Foods: Focus on incorporating more whole foods into your diet. Whole foods are minimally processed and provide essential nutrients that your body needs.
Reduce Added Salt and Sugar: Be mindful of the amount of salt and sugar in your diet. These can contribute to various health issues if consumed in excess.
Limit Processed Foods: Try to reduce the intake of heavily processed foods. These often contain additives and preservatives that can be harmful to your health over time.
Boost Fiber Intake: Include more high-fiber foods in your diet, such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains. Fiber aids in digestion and helps maintain overall health.
Stay Informed: Educate yourself about nutrition and the impact of different foods on your health. Knowledge is power when it comes to making healthier choices.
Conclusion
Nutritional wellness is crucial for maintaining a healthy body and preventing illness. By focusing on whole foods, reducing added salt and sugar, limiting processed foods, and increasing fiber intake, we can improve our overall health and well-being. It's essential to be mindful of our food choices and understand the long-term effects they have on our bodies. Let's strive to nourish our bodies properly to ensure they function optimally and support us in living a healthy, fulfilling life.
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