A well-balanced diet does not require dining solely on fruit, vegetables and whole grains. A balanced diet simply means eating the right food at the right amounts. The key is on eating more of the food that is more important for the body. A perfect guide to a well-balanced diet is the food pyramid.
Following the Food Pyramid
The food pyramid, as its names illustrates, is a pyramid shaped representation that groups certain foods according to how much the body requires of it. The bottom of the pyramid represents the food which the body requires the most servings of, while the tip represents the opposite.
The bottom and largest part of the pyramid contains breads, cereals and pasta. These selections supply the body with carbohydrates that are converted into energy. According to the pyramid, the body requires 6-11 servings of breads, cereals and pasta. This means that a person must have 6-11 servings of energy rich foods a day.
The middle part is divided into two groups. The vegetables group and the fruits group. The body requires the largest servings of these foods a day, but only next to carbohydrate–rich foods. A person is advised to eat 3-5 servings of vegetables a day. While 2-4 servings of fruits a day are also reasonable.
The third part of the food pyramid is again divided into two groups. These are the dairy foods group and the meat, poultry, fish, eggs and nuts group. A well-balanced diet will compose about 2-3 servings of each food group per day.
Finally, the tip of the pyramid represents fats, oils and sweets. It is advisable to eat food rich in these components sparingly.
Moderation, Moderation, Moderation
Ultimately, a well-balanced diet is following the pattern laid down by the food pyramid. This, along with moderation will produce a healthy individual. Despite discouraging fats and oils in the diet, these are also essential in lubricating the skin and other parts of the body such as the hair and nails. Meats are necessary for the protein that they contain, while dairy products are essential for the calcium that they supply the body. Every component plays a part in the scheme of things.
People eat to live and not the other way around. Food is supposed to nourish and keep the body working. Excessive amounts of it do otherwise. Eating is not enough though, eating a well-balanced diet is a requirement for everyone. Eating the right amount of the right types of food is the key to a healthier you.
Following a very simple guide such as the food pyramid will do you good. It will provide the necessary amount of energy for optimal growth and development. A well-balanced diet does not only affect the physical, but the mental and emotional well-being as well. Feeling good from the inside will eventually show in your attitude towards work, towards other and towards yourself. Taking care of you is empowering yourself. Remember, what you eat is who you are.
