Facts on Food
Interesting Food Facts
Food is the fuel for our bodies. Ironically it is also the central
reason for us being unfit. Like any thing in life moderation in
food consumption is a key to staying fit. We are what we eat, and
so it is of paramount importance that we know what exactly it is we
are eating and what is making up our bodies. We also need to know
more about what we eat so that we would make sure that we are on a
healthy food plan that does not miss any important nutrient that
our body needs.
Here some of the key ingredient to a balanced food intake:
Water
Our bodies are made up of 90 % water. So obviously it is one of
the most important food groups. A few of the functions of water are
that it transports other nutrients to cells, carries wastes away
and aids digestion. Water, which makes up more than half your
weight, is found in beverages, soups and many "solid" foods such as
fruits, vegetables, breads, etc.
Minerals
They build bones, teeth, blood, and help the body use energy.
Calcium is one of the most important minerals and is found in the
milk/dairy group and in some green vegetables.
Proteins
They build and repair cells, fight infection, and make blood
strong. We can get them from fish, meat, chicken, eggs, milk, and
soy beans.
Vitamins
Help the body use food and work properly. They're found in all
foods and especially in carrots, spinach, broccoli, green peppers,
tomatoes, potatoes, milk products, fish, meat, and poultry.
Carbohydrates
They provide energy (calories) for muscles, nerves, and the
brain. They can be found in breads, noodles, grains, potatoes,
seeds, lentils and peas, vegetables, sugar and corn.
Fat
Provides energy and "fatty acids," and helps digestion. Too much
fat can be harmful, and it is always preferable to go for trans-fat
free fats.
I
will be giving you some more info on what to eat and when to eat it
in my coming articles on Food and Fitness.
Nine Tips for Eating Healthy On the Run
Some of the major points to look out for to have a balanced eating
habit while on the run.
We live in a fast paced world where our work pressures, social
commitments, are the major reason we choose convenience foods,
which are readily available and easy to cook.
Watch your portion sizes
Reduce the size of your portion sizes. Smaller portions and more
frequent meals result in a high metabolism. In doing so, you
actually lose weight and not gain it.
Get Fiber in your diet
Substitute one major meal like lunch for a brown bread sandwich
with green veggies. The high fiber content of the brown bread will
help in digestion and improve your health.
If it is dinner try to eat light
Make a fresh salad with some grilled chicken. The salads provide
the fiber and natural vitamins which is easy to digest while the
chicken will provide the protein to balance your diet.
Make stir fry an integral part of your diet
Stir fry veggies and meats with Noor Oil to have a healthy and
tasty alternative to main course meals. Use fresh green veggies
like broccoli and white meats like chicken. To make it, stir fry in
a wok with Noor Oil, put all the ingredients and add some tasty
sauces of your choice. Your family will surely love it and it only
takes a few minutes to prepare!
Get fruity
Make it a habit to eat a piece of fresh fruit, a bowl of cereal,
or some low fat yogurt before you set out to run errands. Regular
eating can help you feel full and avoid temptation.
Keep on drinking water
Stock your car with bottled water and healthy snacks. Having
small healthy snacks through out the day are recommended for good
digestion and weight loss. And drinking water helps flush out
harmful toxins that build up in ones body.
Chose your ingredients carefully
For example, cook your food in Noor - a Trans fat free oil,
because it is better for your heart and is a great antioxidant.
Choose mayonnaise made from natural sunflower oil. It is lower in
cholesterol and rich in triglycerides which are good for your
heart.
Grilled food is best
Make grilling your veggies and meats a habit. Not only is it
tastier but it is also good for your heart. Choose the chicken
(either frozen or fresh) and after seasoning, grill it. It will
cook in its own fat with no need for additional oils or fats. In
this way you can enjoy tasty meals and also stay fit!!
Get some grains in you
Always chose whole grain atta made from the freshest wheat.
Whole grain atta has the fiber the minerals and vitamins to
complete your diet. It also tastes much better. If you don't have
the time to make your own atta, chose our wide range of ready made
atta or better still frozen parathas and chapattis made from
freshest ingredients. They are tasty and healthy and very easy to
prepare meals with!!