Food is any substance eaten by living organisms to provide nutritional support. It may be of plant, animal, or fungal origin and contains essential nutrients such as carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, or minerals. In the case of humans, it also provides energy in the form of calories. The need for food has led to the development of many cultural practices and social structures in human society, including farming, hunting, fishing, gardening, horticulture, and eating together.
A healthy diet includes foods from all groups, but the majority of a person’s intake should be from the vegetable and fruit group. Vegetables and fruits are low in fat and calories and contain a wide variety of important vitamins, minerals, and fiber. In addition, some foods have antioxidants, which help to prevent disease by eliminating harmful free radicals from the body.
The protein group of foods includes meats, fish, poultry, and dairy products. These foods provide the body with important building blocks for cells and other tissues, as well as essential amino acids. In addition, protein foods are high in satiety, which makes them filling.
Grains group foods include wheat, rye, rice, barley, cornmeal, and oats. These foods are a good source of carbohydrates, which are the body’s primary energy source. When choosing grains, look for those that are lower in saturated fat and added sugar.
Dairy foods group foods include milk, yogurt, cheese, and other fermented dairy products. These foods are a source of protein, calcium, and vitamin D, as well as other minerals and fatty acids. In addition, dairy products are a great source of energy.
Ethnic foods
Ethnic foods are dishes that are popular in a specific culture or region. In addition to the taste of ethnic foods, their ingredients and preparation methods reflect the history of a region’s people, culture, or religion. For example, New York City has major Asian influences in its cuisine, which can be seen in the popularity of ramen noodles, silky, savory pork chashu, and crunchy chicken karaage. The food of a particular region can also influence the health and lifestyle of its citizens. Studies show that the diet of a population can contribute to chronic diseases, such as heart disease and obesity, or to mental illnesses, such as depression and anxiety. This is because the GI tract is home to billions of bacteria that produce chemical messengers that can affect the brain. Providing a balanced diet of nutritious foods can promote the growth of “good” bacteria and enhance a person’s mood. It can also decrease the risk of nutrient deficiencies and disease.