Importance of Nutrition
We all are given many lessons on the importance of nutrition, in our schools as well as at home, when we are young. Even elders, who are suffering from different diseases are asked to improve the quality of the food, which they intake. The truth is that, nutrition is an essential part of every person’s life – be it children, teenagers, adults or aged people. What most of the doctors and nutritionists suggest is that only a balanced diet can provide us with the essential nutrients and minerals which are necessary for growth and wear and tear of our body. The importance of nutrition for athletes is well known, as they would be able to achieve high stamina and endurance levels only after eating healthy foods. After reading the next few paragraphs, you will definitely understand why is good nutrition important.
Why is Eating Nutritious Food Essential?
A diet can be called as the one which provides proper nutrition to the body, only if we get the essential macro nutrients such as proteins, fats and carbohydrates and also the micro nutrients like the vitamins and minerals. The function of the macro nutrients is to provide energy and strength to the body while the micro nutrients play an important role in the working of the cells of our body. Adequate and proportionate intake of carbohydrartes, proteins and fats, which are the components of nutrition is very essential to stay away from infections, cardiovascular and contagious diseases. The proteins do the task of building the tissues of the muscles and also maintaining and repairing them. By consuming protein rich foods, you can meet the need for amino acids, which are necessary for proper functioning of the body. You can meet the protein requirements of your body, if you eat food items such as milk, milk products, yolk, eggs, meat, almonds, etc. Read the rest of this entry »
Risk Factors of Obesity
Obesity is a growing health problem and is characterized by the accumulation of excess fat in the body. It is usually assessed with the help of BMI or body mass index, which is measured by comparing the height and weight of an individual. If the body mass index of an individual is 30 or above, then he or she can be declared as obese. On the other hand, if it exceeds 40, it is termed as morbid obesity. Sometimes, a measure of the waists circumference, can also give an idea about obesity.
Risk Factors of Obesity
Obesity is a growing concern for a vast majority of people, especially in developed countries. There can be many factors, from genetic to environmental, that can lead to obesity. Obesity is often observed in individuals whose parents or other family members are obese. Genetics is a major risk factor of obesity, as genes are responsible for determining the appetite and metabolism or the conversion of food into energy. Besides, they also determine the storage and distribution of fat. Other than genetics, lifestyle and eating habits also play a significant role, as often the members of the same family tend to develop the same kind of habits.
Physical exercise and activities help us remain fit and sound, by burning down the excess calories. So, a lack of physical activity coupled with over-consumption of high calorie foods, can lead to excessive weight gain. Another important risk factor of obesity can be age. Though, obesity can occur in any age group, the risk of developing it, increases with growing age, as many hormonal changes take place within our body. This, along with a reduction in physical activity, can lead to weight gain. Besides, calorie requirements reduce with advancing age and so it is essential to reduce to calorie intake to prevent the accumulation of excess fat. Read the rest of this entry »