If you want to improve your Life style and reduce the chances of contracting certain diseases, Proper nutrition this is a significant factor. Currently, malnutrition causes more deaths worldwide than tobacco use. Therefore, it is recommended to lead a healthy lifestyle and avoid factors that can contribute to the occurrence of diseases.
The basis of the diet unhealthy foods and ultra-processed foods are considered to be a major contributor to various non-communicable diseases. In addition, what we eat plays a fundamental role in our mental health, energy, mood and the development of our daily activities, whether it be school or work.
According to the UNAM article, malnutrition can present with symptoms such as persistent weakness, recurring infections, or wounds that take time to heal, and this is not necessarily weight related, since a person who is clearly adequate in weight can also be malnourished. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines malnutrition as the presence of deficiencies, excess or imbalance in the intake of calories and nutrients in humans.
In the next Depor article, we will explore the risks associated with poor nutrition and provide practical advice on how to overcome these problems and improve your health. Don’t miss out and learn how to switch to healthier eating habits!
Risks of malnutrition affecting health
Poor nutrition is characterized by nutrient imbalances, including not only excessive consumption of fat or sugar, but also a lack of essential nutrients or a focus on only one group of nutrients.
The effects on the body can vary from person to person. Here is a summary of the possible consequences that can result from these poor eating habits:
- Diseases due to malnutrition: Diet plays a very important role in health, even becoming a determining factor in the occurrence of chronic diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease (for example, coronary heart disease or hemorrhagic stroke), diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, dental disease and obesity.
- Memory impairment: This can manifest itself through inflammation of the hippocampus, an area of the brain particularly susceptible to Alzheimer’s disease and other memory disorders.
- Digestive problems: Eating foods high in fat, sugar, and protein can hinder the digestion process. A diet that lacks essential nutrients or contains an inadequate combination of foods can have negative effects on the digestive system, leading to problems such as constipation, diarrhea, stomach ulcers, gastritis, or irritable bowel syndrome.
- Insomnia: Certain habits can cause insomnia or interfere with sleep, such as eating processed foods or drinks high in added sugars.
- weak immune system: A lack of essential nutrients can reduce antibody production and make the body more vulnerable to infection and disease.
- Premature aging: Nutrient deficiencies can affect the functioning of all organs of the body, as poor absorption of these elements can increase the vulnerability of cells to the effects of free radicals in the environment, which will lead to poor health due to the lack of necessary protective mechanisms.
Tips for reducing the risk of disease
Adopting an unbalanced diet can have a negative impact on health by increasing the risk of diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, cancer, obesity, or cirrhosis of the liver. In this note, we give you helpful tips to reduce your chances of developing degenerative diseases and improve your overall well-being.
- Reduce your salt intake: Excess salt can increase the risk of cardiovascular and circulatory diseases. It is recommended to limit your intake and look for healthier options.
- Ensure adequate iodine intake: Iodine deficiency can cause metabolic problems, especially in childhood. It is extremely important to include sources of iodine in your daily diet.
- Moderate intake of saturated fat: Excessive consumption of saturated fats, found in processed foods, sausages, and fried foods, can increase your risk of heart disease. Choosing healthier alternatives contributes to overall well-being.
- Stay Well Hydrated: Drinking at least one and a half liters of water a day is essential to flush out toxins and maintain optimal body health.
- Limit excessive meat consumption: Reducing your intake of red meat may reduce your chances of developing cardiovascular disease. Choosing white meat like chicken or fish can be a healthier and more nutritious option.
- Improve digestion: It is highly recommended to increase your intake of dietary fiber, as they play a key role in the proper functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.