Health for Body Mind and Soul

A healthy diet may mean different things to different people. Understanding and implementing a healthy diet is crucial to control the risks of chronic disease and to maintain a healthy weight.

The first step in implementing a healthy diet is to truly understand what healthy eating is. This is easier said than done for many people around the world. A study conducted by the Wessex Institute for Health Research and Development, University of Southampton, UK sought to determine perception of a healthy diet and potential socio-economic factors that influence healthy diet choices.

This particular study grouped respondents into various categories including age, gender, and education level. The results of the survey determined education level had the strongest impact on perceptions of a healthy diet. Individuals who did not have dietary information were far less likely to seek balance in diet, reduced fat intake, and an increased intake of fruits and vegetables. Some public education in these areas could well serve to improve knowledge and overall health of diets for the general population.

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Once the basic elements of a healthy diet are understood, a balance should be sought in basic dietary elements. According to WebMD, the basic components of a healthy diet include the right amounts of:

• Protein
• Fat
• Carbohydrates
• Vitamins
• Minerals
• Water

A healthy diet should consist of the right proportion of all of these nutrients. Typically, many people consume more fat, protein, and calories than are recommended for a healthy diet balance. Fat should be no more than 25%-35% of total daily calories. Protein should be based on body weight, ranging from 36 to 80 grams per day. Calories should also be based on body weight and activity level. Most adults do not need more than 2000 calories per day.

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Implementing dietary balance will help to maintain healthy body weight and control the risk of chronic disease.