Nutrition Tips
If you want to boost your health and wellbeing, there are plenty of natural and home remedies to choose from, ranging from avoiding charred meats and added sugars to practicing meditation.
When it comes to knowing what’s healthy, even qualified experts often seem to hold opposing opinions. This can make it difficult to figure out what you should actually be doing to optimize your health.
Sugary drinks like sodas, fruit juices, and sweetened teas are the primary source of added sugar in the American diet.
Unfortunately, findings from several studies point to sugar-sweetened beverages increasing risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes, even in people who are not carrying excess body fat.
Healthier alternatives include:
- water
- unsweetened teas
- sparkling water
- coffee
Some people avoid nuts because they are high in fat.
However, nuts and seeds are incredibly nutritious. They are packed with protein, fiber, and a variety of vitamins and minerals.
Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are foods containing ingredients that are significantly modified from their original form. They often contain additives like added sugar, highly refined oil, salt, preservatives, artificial sweeteners, colors, and flavors as well.
Examples include:
- snack cakes
- fast food
- frozen meals
- packaged cookies
- chips
Despite some controversy, coffee has great health benefits.
It’s rich in antioxidants, and some studies have linked coffee intake to a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases, and numerous other illnesses.
Fish is a great source of high quality protein and healthy fat. Salmon is loaded with anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids and various other nutrients.
The importance of getting enough sleep is important for the body to function.
Vegetables and fruits are loaded with prebiotic fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, many of which have potent health effects.
9. Avoid artificial trans fats
10. Limit refined carbs
Refined carbs have been highly processed to remove fiber. They’re relatively low in nutrients and may harm your health when eaten in excess. Most ultra-processed foods are made from refined carbs, like processed corn, white flour, and added sugars.