Nutrition and Disease

     Have you ever heard the phrase "you are what you eat" this is a very true statement that basically means that to be fit and healthy you need to eat good nutritious food and avoid those foods that are bad for you. Eating a diet full of fruits, vegetables and low in saturated fat can reduce the risk of diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and bone loss. The human body requires six different nutrients found in the foods we eat such as; water, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, proteins, and fat. These nutrients are responsible for supporting growth, maintenance, and repair of the body. When we deprive the body of these necessary nutrients, a condition known as malnutrition, the body does not have the fighting power to resist diseases. According to the National Center for Health, the leading cause of death in the United States is heart disease, followed by cancers, strokes, chronic lung disease, and finally accidents (Sizer & Whitney, 2012, p. 3). What is great about this situation is that most of these causes can be prevented by making good food choices. So the next time you are at the grocery store, make it a point to read the food labels so that you know what you are putting into your body. Making simple diet changes can profoundly affect your life now and in the future. 

Sizer, F. & Whitney, E. (2012).  Nutrition: Concepts and Controversies, MyPlate Update (12th ed.).  Mason, OH: Cengage Learning.