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What Are the Benefits of Eating Healthy Vs. Unhealthy?

   by THOMAS WILLIAMS
   Eating healthy requires a balanced choice of foods.

   Eating healthy requires a balanced choice of foods.
   (Photo: Jupiterimages/Comstock/Getty Images )

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   The Center for Science in the Public Interest reported that in 2010,
   only 10 percent of Americans had a healthy diet, while one-third of
   premature deaths resulted from unhealthy lifestyles. Healthy eating is
   essential for your well-being and protection against diseases;
   unhealthy eating can promote the development of chronic diseases and
   hinder your body from functioning properly. A healthy diet should have
   low levels of saturated fats, salt and cholesterol. It should also
   include vegetables, whole grains, fruits, milk, low-fat dairy products,
   lean meat products and plant proteins.

Boosts Immunity

   Eating a nutrient-rich meal, especially one rich in antioxidants such
   as vitamin C and E, carotenoids and flavonoids helps your body fight
   diseases. Well-balanced meals also ensure that your body obtains
   immunity-boosting nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, iron, zinc and
   vitamins B-6, A, D and B-12. Unhealthy foods increase toxicity levels
   in your body, and fatty foods weaken your immunity.

Increases Energy Levels

   The body’s main sources of energy are carbohydrates, proteins and fats.
   Including healthy foods such as whole grains and nuts in your diet
   ensures a gradual and stable supply of energy. Your body breaks down
   these foods gradually while ensuring you have a continuous supply of
   energy. Unlike healthy foods, unhealthy foods and drinks have empty
   calories and artificial sweeteners that destabilize your sugar levels,
   leaving you feeling hungry and sluggish.

Encourages Weight Management

   The type and quantity of food you eat determines the amount of fat your
   body accumulates. Unhealthy foods have unsaturated fats that accumulate
   in the body, and can lead to obesity, while healthy foods are rich in
   dietary fiber that leaves you feeling fuller for longer. A
   well-balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables also provides your
   body with metabolism-boosting nutrients such as vitamin A, riboflavin
   and niacin, which can help your body burn fat.

Emotional Well-being

   Energy-giving foods such as carbohydrates and proteins leave you
   feeling energetic and upbeat, which helps your emotional wellness.
   According to the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness,
   carbohydrates trigger a chain of chemical reactions that lead to the
   production of serotonin in the brain, a chemical that uplifts your
   mood. MayoClinic.com also reports that people who include fish,
   vegetables and fruits in their diets are less likely to suffer from
   depression. Unhealthy eating causes a deficiency of essential nutrients
   such as iron, which can leave you feeling dull and tired. When your
   body is not sufficiently hydrated, the results can be fatigue and low
   energy levels.

References

     * Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Healthy Eating for a
       Healthy Weight
     * Linus Pauling Institute: Nutrition and Immunity
     * European Food Information Council: Nutrition and the Immune System
     * NHS: The Energy Diet
     * Mayo Clinic: Energy Density and Weight Loss: Feel Full on Less
       Calories
     * National Foundation for Celiac Awareness: Nutrition for Mental
       Health and Emotional Wellness
     * Mayo Clinic: Depression (Major Depression)
     * HelpGuide.org: Healthy Eating
     * Elmhurst College: Overview of Metabolism
     * Center for Science in the Public Interest: National Health
       Priorities

About the Author

   Based in London, Thomas Williams has been professionally writing
   health-related articles for more than 10 years. His articles appeared
   in " Nottingham Evening Post.” Williams is a Masters holder in Clinical
   Science from the University of Liverpool.

Photo Credits

     * Jupiterimages/Comstock/Getty Images

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