Importance of Nutrition

As discussed above, for the proper functioning of mind and body, it is necessary that one must consume enough macro and micronutrients in their daily diet. Macronutrients consist of proteins, carbohydrates, fats and water, while micronutrients comprise vitamins and minerals. Let’s discuss each of these components in detail.

Proteins Protein is responsible for the strengthening of muscles and the immune system. As proteins consist of amino acids, they help our body to function properly, repair the damaged tissue cells and create new ones. The sources of protein-rich foods include lentils, paneer, almonds, chicken, fish, eggs, etc.

Carbohydrates Carbohydrates are necessary for providing our body with the right amount of energy. They account for up to 65% of our energy intake. As this energy is stored in the form of glucose, all of our body’s tissues and cells can use it immediately. There are two different types of carbohydrates, namely simple and complex carbohydrates. Carbohydrate-rich food includes bread, potatoes, pasta, cereals, bananas, cakes, cookies, etc.

Fats When we hear the word ‘fats’, there’s usually a negative perception of it in our minds. However, not all types of fats are bad or unhealthy. Dietary fats such as monounsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids are better than saturated fatty acids and trans-fat. Fats are necessary for the growth of cells, energy storage, and blood pressure regulation.

Vitamins Vitamins are present in minute amounts in the food we eat. It’s important that we consume all the vitamins in appropriate quantities so that our body can function properly and we are able to avoid certain health issues. There are in total 6 different types of vitamins** Vitamin A, B, C, D, E and K. Out of these, Vitamin B has 8 sub-types. Some vitamins (Vitamin A, D, E and K) are fat-soluble, while some (Vitamin B and C) are water-soluble.

Minerals Just like all the other food components, minerals are also important to keep your body fit and healthy. There are two types of minerals - macrominerals and trace minerals. While macrominerals such as calcium, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, chloride and sulphur are required in adequate quantities, trace minerals like iron, manganese, iodine, cobalt, zinc and fluoride are required in small amounts.

There are plenty of benefits of good and healthy nutrition. A well-balanced diet will not only keep you physically healthy but also helps in your overall mental well-being. Eating nutritious food like meat, vegetables, fruits, and nuts is very important in maintaining a healthy body weight. Not only that, it also offers multiple other benefits that are listed below. Let’s find out the importance of good food and nutrition.

Strengthening the immune system

Nutrients like vitamins and minerals are responsible for the production of white blood cells that help fight diseases and prevent infections by boosting our immune system.

Vitamin C and E are found in plenty of vegetables and fruits such as lime, lemons, broccoli, etc.

Maintaining good heart health

Heart problems like heart attacks and strokes are on the rise in India, and it’s mainly due to high blood pressure and cholesterol levels. A balanced and nutritious diet comprising fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy will help in reducing heart-related problems by managing blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Increases energy levels

One of the advantages of nutrition or a nutritious diet is an increase in energy levels. Whole grains, fruits, and vegetables are the healthiest sources of carbohydrates, and they can help you keep your energy and blood sugar levels steady.

Reduces and prevents chronic diseases

Unhealthy eating and limited physical activities are two of the most common reasons that one might suffer from chronic diseases. There is very little doubt that good and healthy nutrition can help reduce and prevent chronic diseases. Therefore, it’s advisable to have a diet which is rich in certain nutrients and can effectively prevent certain chronic conditions.

Delay the effects of ageing

Few vitamins and minerals are healthy for the skin. Foods like tomatoes, berries, avocados, and seafood contain vitamin C and other antioxidants, which promotes collagen synthesis and help make your skin look firmer by delaying the ageing process.

Improves mental well-being

A balanced diet comprising different food groups is one of the important aspects of maintaining positive mental health. Eating nutritious food will provide you with the energy you require to get through the whole day and improve your concentration levels.

Now that we have understood the significance of nutrition, we know what will happen in case our diet lacks the same. It might result in you getting hospitalised and requiring treatment for the disease/illness you suffer from. During these testing times, a medical insurance plan is something that you must have as it’ll help pay off your hospital bills without putting a dent in your pocket.

There are multiple benefits of health insurance, such as cashless hospitalisation, coverage for COVID-19, pre- and post-hospitalization benefits, tax exemption (under section 80D), and many more. So what are you waiting for? Buy health insurance online right now and avail yourself of all the benefits.

People who eat healthy and nutritious food are more productive than those who don’t. On the other hand, a lack of nutritional supplements in your diet can lead to malnutrition. In today’s world, malnutrition presents considerable threats to human health. Malnutrition can be in the form of both undernutrition and overweight, especially in low- and middle-income countries.