Are We What We Eat?
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"You are what you eat." We've all heard this old adage many times, but how true is this statement? It certainly captures part of the truth, a good diet is a crucial part of a healthy lifestyle. All of the physical matter which constitutes our bodies is ultimately just an extremely complex rearrangement of the nutrients we consume. Still, eating is only one part of what makes us who we are. Overall, it might be more correct to say, "What we are is a product of how we live."
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After all, science has shown that a nutritious diet, in addition to enough exercise and adequate sleep, is essential to good health and well being (Reeves, Mathew). Given that every aspect of our interaction with daily life is made possible by the correct functioning of our bodies and brains, people should view optimal physiological health as paramount. After all, our ability to express love for our family and friends and pursue our interests, as well as our very existence, is dependent on the normal functioning of our biological process.
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Concerning diet, it is stated on the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute's website that,
"A healthy eating plan gives your body the nutrients it needs every day while staying within your daily calorie goal for weight loss. A healthy eating plan also will lower your risk for heart disease and other health conditions."
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What constitutes a healthy diet?
According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, a division of NIH the guidelines are fairly simple. It is stated,
A healthy eating plan:
Emphasizes vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and fat-free or low-fat dairy products
Includes lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, eggs, and nuts
Limits saturated and trans fats, sodium, and added sugars
Controls portion sizes
The Importance of Healthy Eating:
A Brief Overview
*Also features advice on how to eat healthy as an incoming UMD student*
