For a better tomorrow, do this today

If there’s one thing you can do for yourself today that will pay dividends for years to come, it’s eating nutritious food. Simply put — good nutrition is the foundation of good health.

Choosing healthy options keeps our bodies working properly. It allows us to maintain a healthy weight and aids in fighting off illness and injury, while also helping to improve our overall quality of life.

The complications of poor nutrition can vary and can lead to long-lasting effects. When you don’t fuel your body with nutritious foods and drinks, initially you may not feel your best. You might lack energy or experience stomach issues. Over time, consistently poor nutrition can lead to serious conditions.

Unfortunately, most Americans don’t eat a healthy enough diet and the numbers tell the story:

• 20% of people ages 2-19 are obese
• 42% of adults are obese
• 37.3 million Americans — about 1 in 10 — have diabetes
• 96 million adults have prediabetes — and most don't know they have it

However, practicing good nutrition plays an important role in reducing the risk of serious diseases and conditions including:

• Diabetes
• Stroke
• Heart disease
• Some cancers
• Osteoarthritis

4 nutrients your body needs every day to help you thrive

Making small nutritional changes every day can add up over time and support better overall health in the long run.

1. Proteins — The amino acids in protein are the building blocks for new cells. They also repair old cells, generate hormones and keep your immune system healthy.
2. Carbohydrates — Your body gets quick energy in the form of glucose from the carbohydrates in your diet.
3. Fats — Your body needs some fat to grow, produce new cells and help vitamins move through your body. Focus on eating the healthy fats found in nuts, fish, grains and vegetables.
4. Minerals and vitamins — Minerals are chemical elements that support many bodily functions. Vitamins keep your body working well too, creating strong bones, sharp eyes and healthy skin and hair. Eating a balanced diet of healthy foods should help you get enough of both.

Quick tips for better nutrition

Eat the rainbow — Enjoy a colorful mix of fruits and vegetables every day. This helps you get the vitamins and minerals your body needs.

Choose whole grains — Whole wheat breads and pastas, brown rice and oatmeal have the nutrients and fiber you need.

Focus on fresh — Whole, fresh fruits and vegetables contain the vitamins, minerals and fiber that are good for your body. Avoid processed foods where you can. Many times the amount of nutrition in processed foods is lower compared to fresh or whole grains.

Get enough protein — Depending on your activity level, age and weight, about 10-35 percent of your daily calories should come from protein. The recommended dietary allowance of protein for a sedentary adult is .08 grams per kilogram (2.2 pounds) of body weight. Protein needs generally increase as we get older to about 1-1.2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight

Mom's Meals^® can help

Nutrition and wellness are at the core of Mom’s Meals. We have professional chefs and registered dietitians who create nutritionally tailored meals to support better health. Are you or a loved one you’re caring for looking for the convenience of great tasting, ready-to-heat-and-eat meals? We offer meals from nine different health condition menus delivered right to your home. Plus, you can choose every meal in every delivery.