Making Nutrition Mean Something In Your Life
By Brandi Goodman
Your health and well-being should always be a priority. Part of being healthy means eating healthy. You need to choose nutritious foods and make nutrition mean something in your life if you hope to maintain your wellness.
When You're a Child or Teenager
Nutrients are necessary as you're growing up. Your body is growing and changing, and you need the right foods in your arsenal if you have any hope of maintaining your well-being. You want to consume foods that fuel your body with the energy and nutrition you need. Whole grains, calcium, fruits, vegetables, and other beneficial options should be eaten regularly.
When You're Eating for Two
You may have heard the saying, "eating for two." This refers to expectant mothers who need to take in enough nutrients for themselves and their unborn babies. Nutrition means a lot in this case. You need to be sure you're consuming the right amount of calories to keep yourself and your child well-fed and nourished. You should be choosing whole grains, fruits, and vegetables that will supply you both with vitamins, protein, and fiber that can help your systems operate and function to the best of their abilities. Protein and folate are also essential for building your baby's cells and preventing birth defects.
When You're Going Through Menopause
Women going through menopause may be losing bone strength. This process can put you at risk for developing osteoporosis. You may experience joint pain and muscle weakness as well. Because of this, it's important to consume more calcium. Make sure you're getting enough milk, yogurt, and cheese in your diet. To combat hot flashes and some of the other symptoms of menopause, you'll want to add more fiber and phytoestrogens in your diet. Lentils, barley, flax seed, and whole grains are good choices.
When You're an Aging Adult
Aging adults are also going to want to focus on nutrition. You may experience struggles with bone loss and density as well. Calcium-rich foods are a must. You'll also want to slow the aging process, making foods high in antioxidants necessary. Apples and berries are good sources. Find nutrient-dense foods, such as nuts, lean meat, fish, fruits, and vegetables should all be on your daily menu to keep your body as healthy as possible.
Make nutrition mean something in your life, no matter which stage you're in. Whether you're an expecting mother, a teenager, an aging adult, or otherwise, nutrition matters. The foods you choose to eat can make a big difference in how you look and feel, as well as for your overall health.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Huntsville, Ala.