According to Paul Drago MD when it comes to nutrition, many people primarily think about eating healthy foods. However, according to the Dietary Guidelines and Human Services and Department of Agriculture, good nutrition encompasses not only the types of food we consume but also the portion sizes and frequency of our meals. It’s about making mindful choices about what and how much we eat. In this article, we will explore some key principles of nutrition that can help improve our overall health and well-being.
Eat More Fiber
Incorporating fiber into your diet is a smart way to control weight and promote a feeling of fullness, according to Paul Drago MD. Fiber not only helps prevent overeating but also regulates blood sugar levels and aids in lowering cholesterol. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and beans are excellent sources of fiber. If it’s challenging to obtain sufficient fiber through food alone, there are also fiber supplements available.
Choose Whole Grains
Whole grains provide not only fiber but also a range of essential nutrients. Unlike refined grains, which have undergone extensive processing and lost much of their nutritional value, whole grains are minimally processed and retain their original nutrient profile. Incorporating whole grains into your diet can help you feel satisfied for longer and reduce the risk of various health conditions. Opt for whole-grain bread, pasta, brown rice, and oats to reap the benefits of these nutrient-dense choices.
Eat More Plant-Based Protein
Introducing more plant-based protein into your diet can be a positive step toward a healthier lifestyle, as suggested by Paul Drago MD. Plant-based protein sources, such as beans, nuts, seeds, and whole grains like quinoa or brown rice, offer numerous health benefits. They can help reduce cholesterol levels, improve blood pressure, and provide essential amino acids. Adding these protein-rich foods to your meals can enhance your overall nutrition.
Eat Fewer Processed Foods
Processed foods are often low in nutritional value and high in unhealthy additives like sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats. Consuming processed foods regularly can lead to overconsumption of calories and contribute to various health issues. These foods can also trigger addictive behaviors due to their impact on dopamine levels in the brain. To improve your nutrition, aim to minimize your intake of processed foods and focus on whole, unprocessed options instead.
Limit Added Sugars and Artificial Sweeteners
Excessive consumption of added sugars can have detrimental effects on our health. Sugar-sweetened beverages, such as soda and fruit drinks, are particularly high in added sugars and offer little nutritional value. Opting for water, unsweetened coffee or tea, and natural fruit juices without added sugars can help reduce your intake of unnecessary sweeteners.
Increase Your Intake of Healthy Fats
Including healthy fats in your diet is crucial for overall health and satiety. Healthy fat sources like avocados, nuts and seeds (such as almonds), olive oil, and fatty fish (such as salmon or tuna) provide essential fatty acids and contribute to a balanced diet. These fats can help you feel fuller for longer and support weight management goals.According to Paul Drago MD understanding the principles of nutrition is essential for making informed choices about what we eat. Incorporating more fiber, whole grains, plant-based protein, and healthy fats into our diets while limiting processed foods, added sugars, and artificial sweeteners can significantly improve our overall well-being. By making mindful choices and prioritizing a balanced approach to nutrition, we can enhance our health and achieve our wellness goals.
