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Simply put, a balanced diet is important for the proper functioning of all the organs in the body. It is important to have carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, essential minerals salts and fiber in the exact percentages. If an individual does not consume enough protein, the body will not be able to grow properly not will wounds be healed properly. In the absence of energy, one will feel extremely tired at all times and not having enough energy to perform the slightest of tasks. On the other hand, too much energy through the consumption of high-energy foods can lead to excessive weight and even obesity. A well balanced diet must consist of foods from the basic main food groups. They are - starchy foods including potatoes, breads and cereals, fresh fruits and vegetables, lean meat and fish, milk products and lastly fat and sugar. On an average, an individual should consume at least three main meals every day. It is important to eat starchy foods along with fruits and vegetables while reducing the content of fat, sugar, salt and alcohol. While choosing food options, check for food labels that mention that the food is low in fat, low in salt and if possible sugar free. Apart from the carbohydrates that fruits and vegetables offer, they are also packed with necessary vitamins and essential minerals. More importantly, they are extremely low in calories and high in fiber content. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables helps the body to be healthy and keeps the heart functioning without disorders.
It is important to have a wide variety of foods vitamin of five portions of fruits and vegetables every day along with starchy foods. A basic meal must also contain moderate amounts of meat or milk products. One can have occasional or small quantities of fatty foods, or meal items high in sugar or salt.
While choosing carbohydrate foods, opt for healthy choices such as whole grain or whole meal breads and rice, as these are vital in protecting the heart from diseases or strokes. Meat products, dried fruits nuts and pulses are excellent sources of protein and these are essential for the body to grow and for body tissues to mend themselves. Meat products are also rich in vitamin B complex, which is instrumental in releasing the energy from food for the body's consumption. More importantly, vitamin B12 in the vitamin B complex group is also necessary for the healthy function of the nervous system. Vitamin B12 is not found in vegetables or foods originating from plants, and hence vegetarians would need to source it from added nutritional supplements.
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