Proper nutrition and health affects and defines the health of all people. It helps us grow, develop, work, play, and resist infections. Malnutrition makes people more vulnerable to disease and premature death.

What is nutrition? Nutrition is the process of getting the right kind of food that is needed by the organism for a proper growth and development. While poverty is the cause for malnutrition in the developing countries, stress of work has led to neglecting the basic requirement for health in the developed countries. Our daily hectic life does not allow us to take time and think of what we should eat. We live in a world dominated by schedules and every aspect of our existence is subordinated to that. This has serious impact on our health. In order to lead a healthy life you need to correct your eating habits.

A balance diet with a mixture of nutrients is essential for our bodies. Nutrients are the substance found in foods that provide nourishment for the body. Proper nutrition gives our body the necessary energy to carry out our daily activities without taxing our bodies mentally or physically. A balanced diet enables us to have a shapely body with the appropriate amount of body fat and muscle. Nutritional disorders occur when we don't ingest the correct amount of nutrients.

Nutrients are divided into two groups: macronutrients and micronutrients. The first groups include proteins, fats, some minerals, water and carbohydrates and they are needed on a daily basis and in large quantities. Micronutrients are also required daily but in small quantities. They consist of vitamins and some minerals that allow the body to use macronutrients. There are some guidelines for a healthy diet but it is important to know that nutritional requirements depend on many factors such as age, weight, sex, height and physical activities.

Choosing foods that contain a low percentage of saturated fat is recommended for eating healthy. Foods low in saturated fats help the body decrease the cholesterol level. A gradual decrease in saturated fats is recommended. Also, incorporating fruits and vegetables into your diet helps build up the fiber level.

Remove most breads, cereal, rice and pasta and replace them with fruits and vegetables. You should add cheese, milk, yogurt, meat, poultry, beans, eggs and nuts in small quantities. Fats, oils and sweets should be kept to a minimum. If you follow a healthy balanced diet, you can live a more productive and healthy life.