Despite government statistics to the contrary, a recent survey of nearly 700 Americans found that 72% of them believed they were healthy eaters.
According to recent data from the USDA, Americans consume a sufficient amount of protein and carbohydrates but frequently fall short on essential nutrients like magnesium, potassium, and vitamins C and E.
According to Carroll Reider, MS, RD, head of scientific affairs and education at Nature Made Vitamins, “Fifty years ago, we only recognized severe cases of vitamin deficiencies, such scurvy, which is brought on by a lack of vitamin C. “Science is becoming better. We now understand that even minor vitamin deficits harm us more than most people realize.
Although the majority of Americans seem to eat well, a crucial question is: Are you nutritionally fit? Reider asked you the following questions to determine how well you were eating:
Avoid the sun, do you? It’s possible that those who use sunscreen, reside in colder climates, or have darker skin won’t produce enough vitamin D after being exposed to sunshine. In addition to aiding calcium absorption, vitamin D may also improve ovarian, breast, prostate, heart, and colon health. For persons who spend the most of their time inside and those who have difficulty synthesizing vitamin D, such as those with darker skin tones and the elderly, Reider advises 1,000 IU of vitamin D each day. Milk and fatty fish are good sources of vitamin D, but it can be challenging to get the recommended amount from food alone. Additionally, it is offered as a supplement.
Do you eat bland food? Is the same green vegetable, meat, and carbohydrate frequently served for dinner? Increase your intake of colors for better health. Citrus wedges enliven the typical bed of greens while steaming carrots, peppers, and red cabbage lend colorful hues to the dinner plate. Antioxidants, which aid in the battle against free radicals that could lead to premature aging, are provided by eating a variety of fruits and vegetables to maximize nutritional intake. A multivitamin designed for your age and gender is another effective strategy to make up for nutritional imbalances, according to Reider.
Is fish a common meal? Two meals of fish are advised by the American Heart Association per week. Salmon and tuna, which are both high in omega-3 fatty acids, are recommended by Reider. Omega-3 fatty acids may help to maintain heart health, according to certain research. Other sources include flaxseed, vitamins, and walnuts.
