NUTRITION
For Better health
Nutrition is the science and study of the nutrients found in food and their impact on the body's functioning and overall health. It involves understanding the different types of nutrients, such as carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, and water, and how they are obtained from the diet. By making informed food choices and following a balanced diet, nutrition plays a vital role in supporting optimal health and well-being. Having a healthy diet is crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being. A nutritious diet provides essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that support proper bodily functions, promote optimal growth and development, boost the immune system, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. It can also enhance energy levels, support mental health, improve digestion, and help maintain a healthy weight, leading to a higher quality of life and increased longevity.
DIETS
A diet refers to the specific pattern of food and drink consumption. It is not limited to weight loss or restriction but can also refer to a specific eating plan for health, cultural, religious, or ethical reasons. Diets can vary widely, from traditional eating patterns to specialized approaches like vegetarianism, veganism, or specific dietary plans recommended for managing certain health conditions. Ultimately, a diet reflects the choices and preferences of individuals in terms of what they eat and drink to nourish their bodies.
VEGAN
Viewed as the strictest form of vegetarianism. Veganism is a lifestyle and dietary choice that seeks to eliminate the use of animal products and by-products in all aspects of life. A vegan diet excludes all animal-derived foods, including meat (such as beef, poultry, pork, and seafood), dairy products (such as milk, cheese, butter, and yogurt), eggs, honey, and any other products derived from animals, such as gelatin or certain food additives. Vegans also avoid non-food items like leather, fur, wool, and cosmetics or personal care products that have been tested on animals. The primary focus is on animal welfare, environmental sustainability, and ethical considerations.
VEGETARIAN
A dietary choice that excludes meat, poultry, game, fish, and shellfish. Certain types of Vegetarians also avoid Eggs, Dairy, and other animal by-products
There are different types of vegetarian diets, including:
Lacto-ovo-vegetarian: This is the most common type of vegetarian diet. Lacto-ovo-vegetarians avoid meat, fish, and poultry but consume dairy products (lacto) and eggs (ovo).
Lacto-vegetarian: Lacto-vegetarians avoid meat, fish, poultry, and eggs but consume dairy products.
Ovo-vegetarian: Ovo-vegetarians avoid meat, fish, poultry, and dairy products but consume eggs.
Pescatarian: While not technically a vegetarian diet, pescatarians abstain from consuming meat but still include fish and seafood in their diet.
Vegetarians often choose their dietary path due to various reasons, such as ethical concerns, environmental impact, health considerations, or personal preferences.
KETO
- What is it? - Keto is a low-no carbohydrate diet (<30g/day) that puts you into a metabolic state called KETOSIS- utilizing fat for fuel. A state that deprives you of carbohydrates and your caloric intake consists of 70% Fat, 25% Protein, and 5% Carbs.
- “In a daily 2,000 calorie diet, that might look like 165g of fat, 75g of Protein, and 40g of Carbs” says Kathy McManus (Dietitian of Harvard)
- “Carbohydrates are converted to glucose in the body and your cells burn that glucose as fuel. When switching to a high-fat, low carb diet, your body by necessity shifts away from glucose and instead uses fatty acids and ketone bodies for energy. This process is called ketosis.” (Ewoldt)
> Being in a state of KETOSIS requires a Strict practice. Cheating is not allowed at any time less you risk leaving the ketosis stasis.
PALEO DIET
Also known as the Paleolithic Diet or Caveman Diet, is a dietary approach that aims to mimic the eating patterns of our hunter-gatherer ancestors from the Paleolithic era. It emphasizes consuming whole, unprocessed foods that would have been available to our ancestors before the advent of agriculture.
The Paleo Diet promotes the consumption of whole, nutrient-dense foods. It encourages individuals to prioritize fresh fruits and vegetables, which provide a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Lean meats and fish are rich sources of high-quality protein and essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Advocates of the Paleo Diet claim several health benefits, including improved blood sugar control, weight management, increased satiety, better digestion, and reduced inflammation. Some studies suggest that following a Paleo-like eating pattern may lead to favorable changes in markers associated with cardiovascular health, such as improved lipid profiles and blood pressure. However, more research is needed to better understand the long-term effects and overall health benefits of the Paleo Diet.
It's important to approach the Paleo Diet with some considerations. For instance, the exclusion of entire food groups like grains and legumes may result in reduced fiber intake and potentially limit certain nutrient sources. Furthermore, the strict adherence to the diet may be challenging for some individuals, and it may be important to ensure adequate intake of key nutrients like calcium and vitamin D from alternative sources.