Good Health Starts With Smart Nutrition
The 7th of April marked World Health Day, and this year’s theme “My Health, My Right” – is a powerful message, reminding us of our collective responsibility to ensure universal access to essential healthcare. While it’s important to remember that this is a critical aspect of healthcare, the real starting point for good health is what we choose to put on our plate.
“What we put into our bodies can directly impact our overall wellbeing which is why it is so important to make smart nutritional choices,” says Sonal Ratan, FUTURELIFE® Dietitian. “Unfortunately, many of us only really pay attention to what we’re eating when we have a health scare or in an effort to lose weight. But let’s face it, prevention is always better than cure,” she adds.
Ratan says that FUTURELIFE® has always believed that smart nutritional choices lead to healthier and happier lives. And, research consistently supports this view, highlighting the incredible impact of nutrition on health outcomes. So, what constitutes good nutrition? Foods such as lean protein, legumes, whole grains, nuts, vegetables, fruit and healthy fats are all nutrient-rich.”A balanced and healthy diet provides us with the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants our bodies need to function optimally,” she emphasises.
Ratan further adds that just one 50g serving of FUTURELIFE® Smart food™ is equivalent to eating 1 ½ eggs, 1 ½ slices of whole wheat bread, 1 teaspoon of low-fat margarine and half of all vitamins and most minerals you need for the entire day.
She goes on to explain that studies show that good nutrition can benefit our bodies in multiple ways:
- Lowers the risk of disease: Chronic diseases such as heart disease, strokes, type 2 diabetes and certain cancers are less likely to occur.
- Strengthens the immune system: Nutrient-dense foods provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants essential for supporting a healthy immune system that can resist and combat infections and diseases.
- Improves mental health: Poor nutrition is linked to an increased risk and the aggravation of mental health disorders that include depression, stress, anxiety, and cognitive decline. The brain relies on a steady flow of nutrients which a balanced diet provides, helping to reduce the risk of cognitive decline and promoting overall mental well-being.
- Increases energy levels: With the stresses of modern-day living, many of us often experience fatigue. Eating foods such as fatty fish, berries, almonds or even snacking on a FUTURELIFE® High Protein Lite or FUTURELIFE® Protein Crunch bar provides sustained energy levels throughout the day, helping us to feel more alert, focused and productive.
- Keeps you regular: A diet high in fibre and hydration supports digestive health, reducing the risk of gastrointestinal issues such as constipation and bloating. Gut health is essential for overall well-being as it ensures proper digestion and the absorption of vitamins, minerals and macronutrients. Furthermore, it supports our immune system and helps to regulate our hormones. All the more reason why just one serving of FUTURELIFE®Bran Flakes & Barley with Probiotics meets 39% of your daily fibre requirement.
- Weight Management: Being overweight can contribute to several health problems that also include type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol and hypertension. Following a healthy eating plan, not only assists in weight management but lowers the risk of developing these chronic and dangerous conditions.
With the global emphasis on prioritising health and wellness by more and more individuals and even companies concerned about their employees’ wellbeing, it is evident that good health starts with good nutrition. “By making informed dietary choices and embracing a healthy lifestyle that includes nutrient-rich meals and snacks such as those found within the FUTURELIFE® product range, individuals can take proactive steps towards a healthier and happier future,” Ratan concludes.