The Dangers of Being Obese
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7 Basics of Eating a More Nutritious Diet
Everywhere you turn on the internet, you hear about the importance of maintaining a nutritious diet. Many people find that this is surprisingly easier said than done. They need help figuring out what foods to include or remove from their diet, how much to eat, and how to portion their meals.
It doesn’t help that fast food and processed snacks seem to be more accessible than foods that nourish your body from the inside out. A nutritious diet should contain various foods that give your body the essential nutrients it needs to function. These nutrients include vitamins, minerals, proteins, fats, and carbohydrates.
A healthy diet doesn’t just maintain your physical health. It boosts your mood, energy levels, cognitive function, and overall quality of life. Despite these benefits, many people, especially those with busy lives, make questionable dietary choices daily either because they don’t know any better or find it easier to eat processed foods.
With Dr. Nidal Hasan, a board-certified endocrinologist and internist, maintaining a nutritious, easy-to-follow, enjoyable diet can be simple. At Optimum Endocrine Care in Calumet Heights, Chicago, and Munster, Indiana, he provides tailored diet plans for patients looking to take charge of their health and nutrition.
Here, he details seven tips to help you develop a nutritious diet you’ll love and want to stick with, regardless of where or how you start.
Understand your nutritional needs
Everyone has unique nutritional requirements. What works for one person may not be appropriate for another. Dr. Hasan determines your nutritional needs based on factors such as age, activity level, health status, and any endocrine concerns you may have. A nutritious diet should support your hormonal and overall health.
Consume more whole foods
Whole foods are unprocessed and unrefined, which should be a significant part of anyone’s diet. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats are packed with the nutrients your body needs. Dr. Hasan encourages his patients to consume a rainbow of fruits and vegetables to ensure they get a wide range of vitamins and minerals.
Plan your meals
Most people plan their meals so they don’t have to answer the question of what’s for dinner every day. However, meal planning is a great way to ensure you get a balanced dose of essential nutrients throughout the week. By planning your meals, you're less likely to give in to the convenience of processed foods and more likely to enjoy a variety of nutrient-rich meals.
Understand portion sizes
Overeating, even healthy foods, can cause you to gain weight and lead to nutritional imbalances. Understanding the appropriate portion sizes for your needs is crucial to eating a nutritious diet. If you need help figuring out where to start, Dr. Hasan can help you determine what portion sizes suit you.
Stay hydrated
Water is essential for all bodily processes, and its importance in a nutritious diet cannot be overemphasized. It helps your body digest foods, absorb nutrients, and eliminate waste. Drinking enough water daily is a simple but effective way to care for your body.
Limit processed foods and added sugars
Highly processed foods and those with added sugars can sabotage your nutritional goals. They often contain empty calories and lack the beneficial nutrients in whole foods. Dr. Hasan advises consuming these foods in moderation or avoiding them altogether.
Get professional guidance
Making more conscious and nutritious choices with your diet can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Optimum Endocrine Care, Dr. Hasan specializes in creating personalized nutritional advice that aligns with your health needs. Whether you’re dealing with specific health issues or just looking to live a healthier lifestyle, his professional guidance can make all the difference.
Eating a nutritious diet is crucial for good health and well-being. You can improve your dietary habits by focusing on consuming more whole foods, understanding your body’s needs, and planning your meals thoughtfully. And if you need some help in the process, schedule an appointment online or call 219-732-2231 today.
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