Modern humans shouldn’t suffer from nutritional deficiencies. Food is available in abundance if you have the money to buy it. Yet many of us just don’t eat a balanced diet. Too many burgers, sugary sodas, pizzas, and pastries can leave us overweight and malnourished. These are called empty calories.
This infographic offers interesting insights into the signals our bodies give us when we are lacking in certain minerals or vitamins. From your skin to your fingernails and the inside of your mouth, your body makes it clear when it needs a nutritional boost.
A well-balanced diet should include a daily serving of fresh fruit and vegetables, grains, and proteins. The dietary guidelines for Americans give a clear indication of how much of each of these food types you need to stay healthy. Your recommended daily requirement of nutrients will differ depending on your size, sex, age, and levels of activity. As a rule of thumb, 50% of the food you eat should be vegetable, 20% grains, 20% fruit, and 20% healthy protein.
To stay healthy our bodies need a balanced diet. Without proper nutrients, you’re bound to become ill. You will also lack energy. Stay well. Eat well.