Consume a healthy diet It is important for people’s well-being. The foods we eat play an important role, not only in taking care of our body and health, but also in our performance in carrying out daily tasks. But, What is a “healthy diet”?
Given this doubt, the World Health Organization (WHO) y Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) They published a document in which they define what a diet should be like to be considered healthy.
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The report highlights that having a good diet “promotes health, growth and development, supports active lifestyles, prevents nutrient deficiencies and excesses, communicable and non-communicable diseases (NCDs), foodborne diseases, and promotes welfare”.
According to the study, healthy diets must meet four basic principles: be adequate, balanced, moderate and diverse.
In this sense, the WHO and FAO point out that within the total calories that a person consumes per day, between 10-15% is usually consumed from protein; between 15-30% fat; and between 45-75% carbohydrates.
Las Proteins “provide the building blocks for much of the structure of body elements, such as muscles, as well as the functions of hormones and enzymes.”. However, they warned that “consuming excessive amounts of protein can cause a metabolic burden on the body, particularly the kidneys.”
Regarding the fatthey explained that “It is an essential nutrient for the proper functioning of the body’s cells”. Additionally, there are two fatty acids – linoleic acid and alpha-linolenic acid – that can only be obtained through diet. Despite this, they stressed that high consumption “can cause excess energy intake,” as well as having an inappropriate weight; and also take into account the consumption of healthy fats above saturated and trans fats.
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As for the carbohydratesthese “provide the main source of energy for the body”. These should come “mainly from whole grains, vegetables, fruits and legumes,” as they are the healthiest.
On the other hand, the organizations warned about the risks associated with the consumption of ultra-processed foods, since they increase the possibility of suffering from cardiovascular diseases, overweight, diabetes, respiratory problems, mental health problems and even cancer.
