A Healthy Diet is one that can provide you with nutrients. A balanced food plate includes proteins, whole grains, good fat,  fruits and vegetables. It also involves not consuming tobacco in any form, and reducing alcohol intake. A healthy diet makes your bones stronger, prevents chronic illnesses, and boosts immunity.

Read this article to understand the importance of a healthy diet, and how it affects your body.

Helps you in managing your body weight

Obesity or being overweight can result in chronic health issues like heart disease, diabetes, bone issues, and cancers. Maintaining a moderate BMI can help in reducing the likelihood of these diseases. Having plenty of dietary fiber, vegetables  and fruits instead of processed foods can help you manage your weight.

Improves your heart health

Conditions like high blood pressure can lead to heart attack, and stroke. However, you can prevent premature heart diseases with simple lifestyle modifications like eating healthy, being physically active and by doing preventive health checkup . Consume plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains,  low Fat Dairy Products, fish, and nuts. Apart from that, restrict  your sugar and sodium intake and increase the consumption of potassium, magnesium and calcium.

Reduces your risk of cancer

Antioxidants protect cells from damage thus they help to lower the risk of developing cancer. Phytochemicals in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and legumes are good sources of antioxidants. Eat berries, dark leafy greens, nuts and seeds for your antioxidant needs.

Helps you to manage diabetes / prevent its onset

Eating a healthy diet can help you in - managing and preventing or delaying diabetes, depending on your condition. Consuming healthy foods can help you in controlling your blood glucose levels, cholesterol, and blood pressure.

Strengthens your teeth and bones

Consume a diet rich in calcium and magnesium to keep your bones and teeth strong. Keeping your bones in good health lowers the risk of bone issues in your advanced ages. Low Fat Dairy products, broccoli, legumes, and cabbage are good sources of calcium; and green  leafy vegetables, seeds, nuts, and whole grains are high in magnesium.

Take small steps at a time to improve your dietary habits - follow these tips:

• Drink water or herbal tea instead of soft or fizzy drinks

• Ensuring you eat fresh meals

• Eat whole fruits instead of juices

• Avoid processed foods

• Lower the intake of salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats

• Know your health status with regular full body checkups to understand what foods you should avoid or consume more.