Good nutrition is essential for good health. Nutrition is the process of taking in food and converting it into energy that is required for living. Food provides essential nutrients our bodies cannot make on their own but need to breathe, grow, move, regulate, and live. 

Nutrients Break Down

There are 6 main nutrients that our bodies need to function properly. These are broken into two major categories: macronutrients and micronutrients. Carbohydrates, proteins, and fats are the three macronutrients while vitamins, minerals, and water are micronutrients.

Causes of Poor Nutrition

Poor nutrition can be caused by poor eating habits including under or over eating and not having enough of the healthy foods we need each day. The ratio of one's caloric intake to their daily energy expenditure needs to be met in order to regulate poor nutrition. Consuming one nutrient at the expense of another can be detrimental to our health as each nutrient plays a key role in our daily bodily functions; we need a healthy balance of all nutrients. Not having a variety in the types of foods we are eating on a daily basis will limit the amount of nutrients that are consumed.

Risks of Poor Nutrition

Not eating a healthy, balanced diet increases a person’s chance of having a chronic disease. Certain foods, specifically processed foods, contribute to inflammation which is linked to depression. On a day to day basis, you can feel the effects of poor nutrition, and over time it can contribute to the risk of developing some illnesses and other health problems such as:

• obesity
• malnutrition

• high blood pressure

• heart disease and stroke

• type-2 diabetes

• osteoporosis

• cancer

• depression

Achieving A Healthy Diet

A healthy diet should favor whole foods rather than processed foods. Whole foods supply the necessary proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals that we need. Some whole foods include vegetables, animal protein, fruits, and nuts. 

Processed foods often lack the nutrients we need and instead are replaced with added sugar, salt, and fats. Many processed foods, when eaten in excess, are associated with diseases. Remember: food is fuel, so fuel yourself with the best.

Impact of Nutrition on Hormones 

Our diets can play a beneficial or detrimental role in our hormonal balance. Food provides the nutrients we need to maintain our daily body processes, including the production of hormones. If we don’t get enough of the right nutrient-dense foods, our hormone balance will suffer. This will create a domino effect on many of our body system functions such as our metabolism, immune system, reproduction system, and endocrine system. Understanding the relationship between nutrition and hormones is crucial. 

How we can help

March is National Nutrition Month and the food and nutrients we put into our bodies plays a key role in our hormone levels. Optimal Bio is focused on holistic health and wellness in all aspects of life, especially nutrition. If you aren’t feeling quite like yourself, we’re here to help. Contact us today!