National Nutrition 2022: In the World of Flavors, Taste it All!
Wherever you fall on the foodie spectrum, a crash course on the basics of nutrition could never go wrong. Apparently, the American Dietetic Association (ADA) agrees. This stellar association established the National Nutrition Week in March of 1975 – now a yearly event that raises awareness on the importance of a nutritious and active lifestyle. This year’s theme is ‘Celebrate a World of Flavors,’ – an attempt to educate the public about healthy and nutritious food without compromising on taste. Now sit back and let us cater to your questions (pun intended).
1. The Proportionality Challenge
Aging changes the requirements of your body and makes nutrient intake a major life event. To put it mathematically, either your nutritional intake is directly proportional to your age, or you are doing it wrong. The rule of thumb for all age groups is that your diet must cover the five essential nutrients: protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Now we know not everyone is a saint, and if you crave junk food, you would not be in the minority. However, you do need more proteins, fatty acids, calcium, phosphorus, folic acid, and iron in your diet to avoid health issues as you age. Metabolism does not play catch up; it begins the whole aging process when you hit the 40 to 60 age mark. This age group is also at a heightened risk of heart attacks, so say buh-bye to fried foods.
2. Nutrition in the Time of COVID-19
Yes, this word is probably just triggering at this point, and we are all heartily sick of hearing it. But take it from us – you could hear less about COVID if you learned more about how to prevent it by eating healthy. Start with a healthy mix of fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C, an immunity booster. Nuts and oils add healthy fats, dietary fibers, and antioxidants to help you retain the strength you may have lost during your battle against COVID-19. Drop the popcorn and switch to pumpkin and sunflower seeds for healthy snack options. Vitamin B doses to strengthen weakened muscles and improve hemoglobin levels are best attained through chicken, meat, and fish. Reverse the dehydration with buttermilk, coconut water, and fruit-and-veggie-infused water.
3. Keep an Eye on Your Scales
Weight management is quite the task; whether you are looking at reduction or maintenance, it can be made easier with a nutritious diet. Listen to your body and its requirements. Keep yourself fuller with shorter and healthier meals. Weight maintenance also involves keeping your water intake consistent with your targeted weight goals. For the record, hydration does not equal alcohol or caffeine (just saying). Now physical activity may be a literal pain, but it does reduce stress and release toxins, thereby improving meal consumption. Get your kicks on and go on a run or something.
4. Say Yes to Home-Cooked
Make up your mind to practice mindful eating that takes your heart into consideration, and do not do it just because you have to. Highly processed and ready-made foods may trap you with their wily charms, but trust us, the way to your heart is not through your stomach. Let your brain rule the roost with good choices. Handpick your vegetables and cook yourself. Figure out how your mind works to convince you about what goes on your plate so you get the best nutritional deal.
You can have your healthy cake and eat it too if you consult the nutrition gurus and swap out the junk for the good stuff. You deserve rainbow foods and flavors, so show yourself (and healthy food) some love!
