The reality for many people is that they don’t think about maintaining a balanced diet until they want to make changes to their appearance or are dealing with a health condition that can be improved by following a balanced diet. Changes can be made at any time to ensure you are getting all the recommended nutrients and macronutrients to live a happier and healthier lifestyle. Here at Broadgate GP, we are diet specialists providing assistance to our clients throughout London and our highly experienced team are on hand to help nudge you in the right direction to follow a well balanced diet to improve health and overall wellbeing.
What is a Balanced Diet?
A balanced diet is what you should be following on a daily basis and it means having variety in your food, meaning it contains fruit, vegetables, dairy, protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Sugary drinks and food should be avoided as well as processed foods like some meats, chips, pies, and pastries. Instead of drinks high in sugar and other substances like coffee and tea – which contain caffeine that acts as a diuretic – plenty of water should be consumed to stay hydrated and keep your body functioning properly.
The Benefits of a Balanced Diet
Sticking to a healthy balanced diet is the best way to reduce the risk of developing a chronic disease, maintain a healthy weight, and make recovering from illness much easier. There are many benefits for your body and, by extension, your mind as following a balanced diet has effects on your mood and mental health. Some of the benefits include:
Improved Condition of Skin and Hair: Getting the proper nutrients and vitamins in your diet can contribute to the appearance of your skin and hair. Many of the components of a balanced diet, including fruits, vegetables, nuts ,and fish contain Vitamins C and E, zinc, selenium, and beta carotene as well as antioxidants, and healthy fats.
Boosts Immune System: One of the biggest ways health and fitness experts promote following a balanced diet is by mentioning how it prevents diseases and infections and while this is true, the reason for it is because a balanced diet can help improve your immune system. Not only does this mean you’re less likely to contract illnesses, but it also speeds up the recovery process should you fall ill.
Weight Management: By eating a diet that incorporates fruit and vegetables as well as healthy fats, you’re making it much easier to maintain or even lose weight in a healthy and lasting way. Fad diets are all over the internet and aren’t a good way to have long lasting results or keep your body healthy, with some fad diets being potentially harmful.
Helps Mental Health: Symptoms of depression and anxiety can be eased by following a balanced diet and getting all of the vitamins and nutrients you need. Consistently getting enough of each food group and hydration reduces the risk of a mental or physical crash that can leave you feeling low and dishevelled if you suffer with mental health conditions.
What Foods Are Good For a Balanced Diet?
One of the most important things about maintaining a balanced diet is to make sure there is variety to the foods you are eating so that you don’t grow bored. Some of the foods you should include in your diet are:
Antioxidants which are found in leafy green vegetables, turmeric, salmon, berries, black chia seeds, and dark chocolate – which is a great addition to a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.
Whole Foods, referring to foods that aren’t altered by additives and preservatives – which studies suggest increase hyperactivity and worsen symptoms of depression. Fresh fruit and vegetables are a great example of whole foods.
Magnesium is essential in helping with nerve and muscle function to keep your heartbeat steady. A deficiency can worsen symptoms of anxiety and depression but magnesium can be found in almonds, cashews, bananas, beans, and spinach.
Vitamin D and Folate which are essential vitamins that help with the production of serotonin and dopamine. These vitamins can be found in leafy greens, cantaloupes, lentils, and mushrooms.
Fibre helps your body absorb glucose slower to avoid experiencing sugar rushes and crashes. Some fibre rich foods include whole grains, beans, fruits (including dried fruit), vegetables, and chickpeas.
Looking for more information about a balanced diet? Broadgate can help!
Do you want to make a change to your eating habits and start to follow a healthy, balanced diet? Let us help! Our team offers bespoke services as diet specialists and are on hand to provide advice and guidance so don’t wait, get in touch with us today! We’re only a phone call away and are happy to chat or arrange an appointment with one of our experienced diet specialists.
