Nutrition data is readily available; for instance, you can access federal guidelines issued for public information and read the labels on food packages. Online sites and books of advice abound. There is more information than anyone can absorb. Both conventional and alternative views vie for attention and the money that consumers spend on food and supplements.
If you are just beginning a study of good food choices, the federal guidelines are not a bad place to start. You will get an overview of conventional wisdom about minimum daily requirements of vitamins and minerals, calories, protein, fats, and fiber. The human body is very efficient if given the nutrients it needs; a good diet is the foundation of health.
Things are complicated by the fact that everyone is an individual, with specific needs that might be different from those of the general public or even members of the same family. For instance, whole wheat bread could be a good source of fiber, B vitamins, and calcium for those who can digest wheat gluten without problems. For others, even one slice can cause gastric distress.
Food can contain allergens that make it indigestible for a person who will get little or no nutrition out of it. Foods can also be laced with preservatives, artificial flavors and colors (that can trigger hyperactivity in children), sweeteners, sodium, or spices that might make it a poor choice. Fresh produce can be tainted with pesticide residue and could even be genetically modified.
This is why it pays to know what ingredients are in your food and where it comes from. Produce grown in other countries might have a higher pesticide content - but not necessarily. Exotic fruits and vegetables probably will be picked before full ripeness, and long shipping times can lessen the food value considerably.
There are many books and online sites, often written by a medical doctor. Herbalists and natural food advocates also have valuable information to share. Sources may differ greatly in content. One expert may advocate whole grains as a dietary foundation, while another may suggest avoiding grains altogether. Some say fat is to be eliminated, while others say it is necessary for energy, mental alertness, and proper development in children.
The best practice is to read as much reputable nutrition data as you can, to get a consensus of opinion. Then try some of the programs for yourself. If you are sensitive to wheat or dairy, you will soon know. If you must eliminate certain foods to feel your best, make sure to find acceptable sources of the nutrients you will be missing. The more you investigate and experiment, the more you will feel sure of satisfying your own personal needs.
If you are just beginning a study of good food choices, the federal guidelines are not a bad place to start. You will get an overview of conventional wisdom about minimum daily requirements of vitamins and minerals, calories, protein, fats, and fiber. The human body is very efficient if given the nutrients it needs; a good diet is the foundation of health.
Things are complicated by the fact that everyone is an individual, with specific needs that might be different from those of the general public or even members of the same family. For instance, whole wheat bread could be a good source of fiber, B vitamins, and calcium for those who can digest wheat gluten without problems. For others, even one slice can cause gastric distress.
Food can contain allergens that make it indigestible for a person who will get little or no nutrition out of it. Foods can also be laced with preservatives, artificial flavors and colors (that can trigger hyperactivity in children), sweeteners, sodium, or spices that might make it a poor choice. Fresh produce can be tainted with pesticide residue and could even be genetically modified.
This is why it pays to know what ingredients are in your food and where it comes from. Produce grown in other countries might have a higher pesticide content - but not necessarily. Exotic fruits and vegetables probably will be picked before full ripeness, and long shipping times can lessen the food value considerably.
There are many books and online sites, often written by a medical doctor. Herbalists and natural food advocates also have valuable information to share. Sources may differ greatly in content. One expert may advocate whole grains as a dietary foundation, while another may suggest avoiding grains altogether. Some say fat is to be eliminated, while others say it is necessary for energy, mental alertness, and proper development in children.
The best practice is to read as much reputable nutrition data as you can, to get a consensus of opinion. Then try some of the programs for yourself. If you are sensitive to wheat or dairy, you will soon know. If you must eliminate certain foods to feel your best, make sure to find acceptable sources of the nutrients you will be missing. The more you investigate and experiment, the more you will feel sure of satisfying your own personal needs.
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