Did you know that on an average, we only get 1.1 out of the recommended 7 oz. of fish per week?
Eating well is good for your mental as well as your physical health and eating fruits and vegetables every day is key to optimal health. Foundational nutrition provides the basic nutrients and makes up the building blocks that everyone needs. Foundational nutrition has 3 categories:
- Macronutrients: protein, fats and carbohydrates – think of these as basic nutrition. Did you know that much of the protein we consume is combined with saturated fat?
- Micronutrients: vitamins and minerals – these work together with macronutrients. Did you know our bodies can’t produce enough micronutrients on their own, and the typical diet doesn’t satisfy the demand?
- Phytonutrients: organic components found in plants that are thought to promote human health. Did you know that in the U.S., 8 out of 10 people don’t meet the recommended 5-9 servings of fruits and vegetables per day?
Where do you begin?
Think of your body as a house and macronutrients, micronutrients and phytonutrients as the essential building blocks:
- Bricks – protein helps us grow and repair ourselves, and helps us stay energized, and build and maintain lean muscles.
- Mortar – vitamins and minerals create a strong foundation by performing hundreds of roles in the body to sustain life.
- Security – phytonutrients help protect the integrity of the bricks and mortar.
- Electricity – omega-3 fatty acids help support the health of our nervous and cardiovascular systems. On average, we only get 1.1 out of the recommended 7 oz. fish per week.
Everyone has the same basic nutritional needs, unfortunately, 80% of Americans aren’t getting the fruits and veggies they need from diet alone. This means just about everyone could benefit from foundational supplements to help fill gaps. Supplements should be used to fill gaps, not replace a healthy diet.
You should fill gaps if:
- Your diet doesn’t have 5–9 servings of fruits and vegetables every day.
- You get 5–9 servings, but don’t eat a wide variety to ensure full health benefits.
- You often don’t have time to make nutritionally complete meals.
- You often choose convenient, processed foods over healthier options.
Consult a Physician:
Remember to always consult with your doctor before trying any new supplements or treatments. If your doctor gives you the all-clear, chose supplements that are right for your health needs.
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To Your Success,
Althea
Althea A. McLeish Wilson, RN, MSN
Educate . Empower . Encourage
Promoting inner health & outer beauty!
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