Food is a central part of human existence and culture. The food we eat is not just a fuel for our bodies, but also provides nutrients, flavor and pleasure. As a result, it is the subject of an enormous range of writing: restaurant reviews, food blogs, long and short journalism pieces (from profiles to investigative articles), nonfiction books, memoirs and fiction — as well as academic research papers. All the rules that apply to other types of writing apply to food writing: voice, style, description and accuracy are important.
The most important nutrients in a healthy diet are proteins, carbohydrates and fats. Proteins provide the building blocks for many essential body tissues. Carbohydrates give the body energy, and fats provide the lipids needed for normal cell function and for insulation of internal organs. A healthy diet includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and beans. It is also low in sodium, sugar and fat and contains adequate amounts of calcium, phosphorus, iron and vitamin D.
People who live in developed countries usually have access to a wide variety of nutritious foods, and they generally have healthy lifespans. However, some people in developing countries do not have enough money to buy the food they need to survive. They may eat unhealthy, high-calorie junk foods that have little nutritional value and cause chronic diseases such as obesity, heart disease and diabetes.
Eating a variety of foods helps prevent malnutrition. If a person has limited income, she should choose foods that are low in salt, sugar and fat and high in fiber and vitamins and minerals. She should eat more fish, whole grains and legumes. Fruits, vegetables and a few nuts are important as well.
In addition to a balanced diet, people should drink 8 to 12 cups of water daily. They should eat dark green vegetables, such as broccoli, spinach and kale, at least three to four times a week. They should eat beans and lentils, such as black beans, kidney beans and chickpeas, at least twice a week. They should eat at least two servings of whole grains daily, such as oatmeal, brown rice and barley.
A person should avoid foods that contain trans fats or saturated fats. These fats are found in meat, dairy products, fried foods and baked goods made with partially hydrogenated vegetable oil and in solid fats, such as lard and butter. These fats can lead to heart disease, high cholesterol and other health problems.
A person should eat a variety of foods, including protein sources such as beef, chicken and pork, as well as eggs and poultry. Vegetables are a good source of fiber and other nutrients. He or she should eat fruits, such as strawberries, blueberries and raspberries, and vegetables that are rich in vitamin C, such as spinach and peppers. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps the body fight off infections. It also may help prevent cancer. Fruits and vegetables can also help reduce the risk of diabetes and high blood pressure.