How much do you pay attention to what you are putting into your body each day? Some people may need to keep a closer eye on their nutrition than others, but generally speaking, it is a good idea for all people to pay attention to their daily intake so that they can live the best lives they truly can. Think of it this way: when you pump gas in your car, you want to get the best fuel that will make your engine operate as best as it can. You may find that it is better to spend an additional amount on higher-quality gas to help your car in the long run. The same can be said for your nutritional needs. Unhealthy food is often cheap and quick to get, but consuming it too much can come with dire health benefits. Therefore, it is important to make getting recommended daily intake of protein intake and carbohydrates a priority as you go about your everyday life.

You probably were lectured as a child about how important it is to eat your fruits and vegetables. While you may have rolled your eyes at your parents back then, these habits continue to be crucial as an adult and will continue to be for the rest of your life. Lack of good nutrition is linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. It also serves as a key in helping you live a longer, and even more fulfilling, life. It is especially important during a child’s developing years. Children who lack proper nutrition have a more difficult time learning and staying focused in school and will not physically develop the way they are supposed to (e.g. stunted height and brain development). This serves as an ongoing issue in countries where the poverty level is high. People who overeat may experience malnutrition by consuming an excessive amount of unhealthy food, likewise, those who under-eat are prone to malnutrition from not getting the food they need to live.

Some people who follow particular diets for religious, ethical, or health reasons, may require special dietary substitutions. For example, vegetarians and vegans alike must pay attention to their protein intake, and vegans alone must prioritize vitamin B12. Keto diets can also be low in certainly required micronutrients. If you follow a special diet, whether it be a temporary or permanent situation for you, it is important to be open about it with your doctor and get the appropriate tests and bloodwork done to ensure that you are getting the ample amount of nutrients you need to live a healthy life.

Our blog posts on the recommended daily intake of protein intake and carbohydrates can help steer you in the right direction to maintaining or getting your physical health on track, but since every person has different needs, they are in no way a substitute for one-on-one appointments with your general practitioner. Be sure to attend your annual physical exam or schedule an appointment with your doctor sooner if you have any immediate concerns regarding your dietary health.