Why does nutrition play a vital role in managing chronic diseases?

In the present time, many individuals pass away due to chronic illnesses. But, even when regular medications can help manage the diseases, a nutrient-dense diet is essential. So, as you go through this article, you will know more about how a nutritious diet can help to manage chronic diseases. Once you have gone through the article, you will also know the importance of a nutrient-rich diet. 

What must be the ideal nutritional balance? 

When you always aim to stay healthy, nutritional balance is essential. While you consider a balanced diet, the food items must be from main classes. The diet must also include lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables. Such types of meals offer nutrients so that you can stay fit all the time. But, when you’re thinking of a diet, you must limit the intake of salt, refined foods, and sweet items. These are likely to cause diseases in the long run.

Now, to evaluate the level of nutrition, you have to consider certain parameters. These include the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) and the Daily Value (DV). While DV gives an estimate of the amount of nutrients, the RDA is the average consumption needed to meet the nutritional needs. 

Which parameter to consider for finding out the nutrient balance?

Even when the above techniques can determine the nutrient balance, there are many pros and cons. When you consider DV, the nutrient content is compared. But, it doesn’t consider the individual’s nutritional needs. On the other hand, the RDA considers the individual’s age along with their nutritional needs. Nevertheless, RDA can be tough to calculate due to the focus on isolated nutrients.

What happens when a person consumes high-calorie foods?

While a nutrient-rich diet is good for optimal health, excess nutrient intake can lead to chronic diseases. The person is bound to suffer in case he consumes many calories. As time passes, the individual will put on excessive weight if he continues to eat high-calorie foods. Obesity eventually leads to diabetes and heart-related diseases. Excess protein intake can further increase the risk of cancer. Health can start deteriorating when the person starts suffering from colon cancer. 
 

What should a diet constitute for staying healthy?

Following a diet rich in nutrients can surely prevent the occurrence of diseases. To stay healthy, the person should eat vegetables, fruits, and whole grains often. Such nutrient-rich foods contain minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, and more. These enhance cellular health and reduce the severity of inflammations. However, a person is likely to suffer from diseases when he consumes processed foods. Food items containing high percentages of sodium and sugar can also affect health considerably. 

Which dietary approach must you follow?

In the modern world, many people follow different dietary approaches. These help to stay healthy and mitigate the occurrence of diseases. In addition to a Mediterranean diet, individuals may follow a plant-based diet and a low-carb diet. Eventually, every approach states that a person must consume nutrient-rich foods. He must also stay away from unhealthy food items for disease prevention. 

Why adopt healthy eating habits? 

When you follow healthy eating habits, it influences your overall health directly. A diet that is rich in nutrients will support the immune system and enable your body to function optimally. Individuals will also not get affected due to diabetes, certain cancer types, and heart diseases. Besides, when you inculcate healthy habits, it can help maintain weight and help you stay energetic. This, in turn, will foster a holistic approach to wellness. 

How can a nutritious diet be beneficial?

There are many benefits to following a nutritionally rich diet. Let’s now check the benefits ahead.

Enhanced Health
Consuming nutrient-dense food items can reduce the risk of chronic diseases. You may not get affected due to cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and diabetes. 

Keeps body weight under control 
As nutrient-rich foods are low in calories, they help maintain body weight. You will also be satisfied with the meal because you will consume food items rich in fiber.

Enhanced energy level
A diet that is rich in minerals and vitamins can empower you due to high energy production. With time, you will also improve endurance and vitality. 

Makes the immune system strong 
Vitamins A, D, and C, along with minerals like zinc, can help boost the function of the immune system. Your body will also not be prone to many illnesses.

In the end, foods rich in fiber can promote digestion and prevent the risk of constipation.

Why is excessive nutrient intake not recommended?

A person may encounter many risks due to excessive nutrient intake. Let’s now check out the various risks. 

Toxicity 
Certain vitamins can be toxic if the level is significantly high. For instance, if you consume high levels of vitamin A, then it can damage the liver. Excess iron can also damage the organs and affect the intestines.

Increases health risks 
Consuming too many nutrients, like sugars and saturated fats, can lead to many ailments. The person may put on excess weight and may get affected due to diabetes.

Issues related to the stomach & Intestines
High doses of some nutrients can lead to digestive problems. The person may feel uneasy after some time due to bloating or diarrhea.

Affects the kidneys 
Excessive protein intake can affect the kidneys to a great extent. The individual may start feeling uncomfortable, especially with pre-existing conditions. 

Disrupted hormonal balance 
Intake of specific nutrients beyond a certain limit can lead to hormonal imbalance. The individual may further have to face the consequences when the thyroid starts functioning abnormally. 

What are the health risks due to refined foods and more?

Refined foods, fats, and sweet food items can enhance the risks of many health problems. In case the diet is high in cholesterol and sugar, then the person can suffer due to heart diseases. Moreover, a diet that constitutes a high percentage of refined carbohydrates can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes. Studies also reveal that when a person drinks sweet beverages, it increases the risk of diabetes by 26%. Eating excess foods with added sugar can further lead to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). This refers to the condition in which fat builds up in the liver. Apart from all these risks, it's always advisable to eat less processed meat. In case the person eats beyond a certain amount, then it can cause colon cancer. 

How can micronutrients boost mental health?

Micronutrients like minerals and vitamins can enhance mental health as they help the brain function properly. So, when the diet is rich in micronutrients, it can reduce mental health issues and improve resilience. Way ahead, vitamins C and E prevent inflammation and oxidative damage. As per a study, adequate vitamin D can also help to keep the mood under control. The nutrient also helps to regulate melatonin and serotonin levels. Individuals no longer have to worry about dementia and paranoia when the diet comprises ample vitamin B12. Proper intake of folate (B9) can also help in combating depression. 

Conclusion 
Finally, a proper diet is always important for preventing diseases. Individuals can also stay healthy when they adopt healthy food choices. If you’re unable to manage diabetes and body weight, then why not connect with TruePal? As we conduct a health checkup, a consultation will surely help you learn how to move ahead. Beyond everything else, we will also suggest a nutrient-rich diet you must follow regularly.