Food is a mixture of chemical substances that enables living beings to build and maintain their organs and supply them with energy for work and movement. It also provides the raw material for the body to produce other chemicals necessary for normal life processes. These are called nutrients. Food can be obtained from plants or from animals. Examples of plant foods are fruits, vegetables, cereals and breads; examples of animal foods include fish, meat and dairy products. It is important that we consume enough of the correct types of foods to ensure that our bodies are getting all the nutrients that they require.
Throughout history, people have developed different ways to obtain and store food in order to provide themselves with the energy they need to live. Originally, prehistoric humans were hunter-gatherers and relied on the natural resources available in their environment for their sustenance. Over time, humans began to domesticate plants and animals, which led to the development of agriculture and food processing. These techniques allowed people to grow crops in abundance and make food available for consumption at all times.
Eating is a highly personal experience that can involve more than just fuelling the body. Food can be a source of comfort, can be a part of social and religious events and can be used as a way to express cultural identity. The food we eat can have a major impact on our physical and mental health, so it is important to choose wisely.
The best way to get the nutrients we need is by eating a variety of different foods. Try to avoid processed foods and opt for whole foods instead. Processed foods are high in salt, sugar and unhealthy fats and are often low in nutrients. Examples of processed foods include packaged snacks, fast food and ready meals.
To help prevent diseases such as heart disease and diabetes, it is recommended that we consume a diet that is rich in green leafy vegetables, fruit, healthy fats (olive oil, nuts and seeds) and lean protein. These nutrients are known to lower cholesterol, blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
It is also important to drink plenty of water and eat fibre-rich foods daily. Fibre-rich foods include vegetables, whole grains and beans and legumes. It is recommended that we eat two to three servings of fibre per day, and aim for more if we can. Try to eat vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower and brussel sprouts, and go for whole grain foods such as brown rice, quinoa or oats. Legumes and beans are a good source of protein and some micronutrients, and they are also a good source of dietary fibre. Adding these to soups, stews and casseroles or eating them as a snack can be a great way to increase your fibre intake.