The meal consists of ham, tomatoes, bread, lettuce, followed by low-fat yogurt, an apple, and a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice. Most people believe this is a nutritious meal, but is it a well-balanced meal for health?
The “Mantra” of Health
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| (Photo: Twaze) |
Many people often say: “Dieting is an art, and the dieter is an artist.” In reality, dieting requires a process rather than simply skipping a meal or eating just one meal. A diet must combine various types of food, aiming to reduce the quantity of food rather than the number of dishes.
The term “balanced meal” is one of the health “mantras” but is rarely explained in full. It refers to a menu that combines different types of foods, including grains, legumes, fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy products, fats, and oils. The essential idea of a balanced meal is to combine foods thoughtfully, primarily to obtain the nutrients the body needs while maintaining a healthy weight.
It is not necessary to adhere too strictly to quantities; you can have a bit more of one food and a bit less of another. For example, certain types of fats and oils are necessary for dieting for various reasons, including fatty acids, but only in small amounts.
In the UK, the Ministry of Health has launched a program called “Balance for Good Health” to help people balance their food types for a nutritious diet. Scientists assert that varying the dishes not only enhances enjoyment but also ensures sufficient nutrition for the body.
Most of us do not eat enough according to effective recommendations: 3-5 servings of vegetables and 2-4 servings of fruits each day. Be careful that protein-rich foods do not provide excessive accompanying fats; trim meat fat and remove chicken skin. You should also consider how you cook your food; frying or breading meat will add a lot of fats.
Meal… Exercise
Dieting is a regimen prescribed by healthcare professionals; for example, people with high blood pressure should limit salt and fat intake, those with diabetes should avoid excessive sugar (including many sweet fruits as they raise blood sugar levels); women on contraceptive pills should quit smoking… Dieting only restricts certain foods, but it has strict requirements, and violations can affect health and the progression of diseases. Dr. ĐÀO XUÂN DŨNG |
And of course, one cannot forget the “dish” of water each day. If you find it difficult to drink 2 liters a day, you can substitute with artichoke tea, bitter melon tea, chrysanthemum tea, or lemon water. When you “consume” enough water, your body can be assured of proper brain and cardiovascular function.
According to the Women’s Health Institute (USA), dieting only restricts energy intake and does not help reduce excess fat; therefore, exercise will help you maintain a positive spirit, stamina, and burn a significant amount of fat. Regular walking is one of the great ways to stay in shape.
Physical activities provide you with a refreshed spirit, “burning” off excess energy, and will make your body more toned and balanced. Swimming, dancing, walking, badminton, and basketball are some good suggestions. Additionally, you should take advantage of massages and saunas, which are also excellent ways to relax and have fat-reducing benefits.
KHÁNH NHƯ
