Before we get started, we would like to acknowledge Dr Kathrine B. Davis, our contributing editor of this section. Her knowledge, time, research and passion on the subject of nutrition is highly valued and appreciated.
What is a balanced diet?
There are many differing opinions on this very tricky question. Nutritionists have varying opinions and different recommendations at different times. Even the well-known food pyramid has been reorganised, and is under review again.
Meanwhile, people's interest in healthy living is growing. Businesses are now taking a whole new look into corporate well-being and are investing in the health of their employees. Even fast-food chains are attempting to take a healthier approach by promoting a more nutritious and varied menu. Thankfully more people are now acknowledging the fact that what you put in your mouth affects your health and therefore your life. To achieve a 'balanced diet', it is important to learn about what good nutrition is, and then to apply it to you and your needs. We usually eat a piece of fruit without giving any thought to what exactly is in it. When was the last time you ate an apple and acknowledged the fact that it contained 84 per cent water, 80 calories, 21 g of carbohydrate, 10 mg of calcium, 10 mg of phosphorous, 0.2 mg of iron, 159 mg of potassium, 0.02 mg of thiamine, 0.02 mg of riboflavin, 0.1 g of niacin and 8 mg of ascorbic acid (Vitamin C)? It may not seem important to know detailed information like this, but it does give you an insight into the complex coordination of processes and chemicals working together to achieve nutritional balance and optimal health within nutrition and the human body.
We are all different, and our needs vary at certain times of our lives. When you understand the wonderful benefits nature has to offer, you will see that the abundance of wholefoods, fruits and vegetables available to us can provide us with the balance we need. Balance is all about turning back to nature. That's where you will find the optimum nutrition your body needs in this busy, modern-day lifestyle
