challenges

A healthy diet is high in nutrients and low in empty calories. It is balanced, and includes the proper amounts of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats (Sizer & Whitney, 2012). Proper digestion and metabolism requires foods that contain optimum nutrients to provide the body with energy so it can build, repair, and renew tissues as needed (Koopson & Young, 2009).

The main challenge I think people today face with choosing the right foods is habit and convenience. Healthy habits are established at a young age (Koopson & Young, 2009). Many people today grew up with unhealthy habits and attitudes towards food and are passing the legacy onto their children. Fast food, frozen pizzas, hot dogs, and boxed macaroni and cheese are a big part of the diet of many busy families. It’s easier to open a box than it is to prepare lean meats and fresh vegetables from scratch, especially if one does not know how to prepare such foods. However, it can be almost as quick and easy as waiting for pizza or microwaving a frozen dinner to prepare a meal such as chicken breast with roasted vegetables if one is inclined to learn.

 References

Koopson & Young, (2009). Integrative Health: A holistic approach for health

Professional. (1 ed.). Sudbury, MA: Jones and Bartlett.

Sizer, F. & Whitney, E. (2012).  Nutrition: Concepts and Controversies, MyPlate Update (12th ed.).  Mason, OH: Cengage Learning