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Nutrition & Diet
Question #19563
61 days ago
132

benefits of balanced diet - #19563

Pari

I am really confused about the benefits of balanced diet. I used to think I was eating well, you know, the whole "I have fruits and veggies" thing. But then my friend pointed out that I barely eat any whole grains or protein, which made me start looking into it more. Last month, I got really tired all the time and my doctor mentioned I might be missing out on something essential. I had blood tests done, and luckily nothing severe popped up, but my iron was a bit low and she mentioned I should focus on the benefits of a balanced diet. I want to understand more about what exactly that means, like, do I really need to cut out sugar completely or is everything about moderation? What ratios should I aim for in terms of carbs, proteins, and fats, or is it different for everyone? And are there specific benefits of a balanced diet that I could notice quickly? I mean, I’ve read that it can help with skin and energy levels but like how fast can that kick in? Feeling so lost right now and just want to make sure I’m doing this right, you know?

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Doctors' responses

Understanding the benefits of a balanced diet can indeed be a bit overwhelming, especially with so much varied information out there. Let’s break it down a bit. A balanced diet provides all the essential nutrients your body needs in the right proportions to function optimally, influencing energy levels, mood, and even the condition of hair and skin. It typically includes carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, and water. Each of these plays unique roles, like carbohydrates being the primary energy source, proteins aiding in tissue repair, and fats supporting cell function and hormone production. Generally speaking, a good rule of thumb for macronutrient ratios is roughly 45-65% of your dietary energy coming from carbohydrates, 10-35% from protein, and 20-35% from fats. However, the exact balance might vary based on personal factors like age, sex, and activity level.

You don’t necessarily need to cut out sugar completely, but moderation is key because excessive consumption can lead to weight gain and other health issues like diabetes. Make sure you’re getting your carbohydrates mostly from whole grains, vegetables, and fruits rather than refined sugars. Iron deficiency, as you’ve noted, can lead to tiredness because iron is crucial for carrying oxygen in the blood. Foods like lean meats, beans, nuts, and leafy greens can help boost iron levels. In terms of noticeable changes, improvements in energy levels might be felt within a few weeks once your nutrient intake is aligned and deficiencies are corrected. Skin health may take a bit longer to show noticeable changes, so patience and consistency are important.

Of course, it’s always good to aling your dietary adjustments with professional advice tailored to you. Consider working with a dietitian if you’re feeling unsure. They can provide personalized guidance that’s practical to incorporate into your lifestyle. Always prioritize your body’s signals and consult healthcare professionals for significant concerns, especially with symptoms like persistent fatigue, which might need closer attention.

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