Food is any edible substance consumed by humans or other animals for energy and nutrition. It is usually of plant or animal origin and contains essential nutrients, such as carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins and minerals. Food is obtained by eating plants or animals, or by drinking liquids such as water, milk or juice. Humans are highly adaptable omnivores and have developed ways to secure food in many different ecosystems. People typically seek out food as an instinctive response to hunger.
The foods people eat vary greatly between countries and even within countries, due to factors such as geographic location and culture. Diets also vary from one person to the next, because of genetics and individual preferences and needs. People typically eat a wide variety of foods and enjoy food for pleasure as well as for the nutritional support it provides.
People tend to prefer certain flavours, often because of evolutionary or cultural reasons. The taste of sweetness is universally appreciated, for example, as a result of the role it plays in reward processes. Other common flavours include sourness and saltiness. People have evolved to enjoy these flavours because they provide a signal to the body that the food is nutritious and satisfying.
In addition to providing nutrition, a healthy diet provides a range of other benefits. It can help prevent obesity, cardiovascular disease and some cancers, as well as promote mental health and wellbeing. It can also improve sleep quality, boost immune system function and aid in recovery from illness.
To keep your diet balanced, try to eat a range of foods from the four Food Groups. It is important to reduce your intake of sugars, as they can cause tooth decay and lead to weight gain. Choose low-sugar, reduced-fat options where possible.
It is also helpful to eat a range of fibre-rich foods. These can help to reduce blood cholesterol levels and prevent constipation, as well as helping to regulate the digestive system. These foods include whole grains, beans and lentils, fruit and vegetables.
Limiting takeaway foods, which are often high in fat and salt and low in fibre, can help to control your calorie intake. When buying ready-made meals, look for the lowest salt options.
Adding legumes, such as beans and lentils, to meals can help to increase the amount of fibre in your diet. It is also a good idea to drink 8 to 12 cups of water daily and to limit the amount of sugary drinks you consume. Choosing beverages with less added sugar and more calcium-rich options can help to prevent osteoporosis in later life. In addition, making sure that serving sizes are correct can help to prevent overeating. It is recommended that a serving of meat or fish should be the size of a deck of cards, and that half a cup of cooked rice, potatoes or pasta should be about the same size. Keeping a food diary can be a useful tool to help you monitor your eating habits.