Why this Topic?
Having a good, healthy, balanced diet is one of the best things for you. On top of feeling better physically, your mind will feel better because lots of junk food won’t interfere with your body functioning.
History of Food Models
First Food Pyramid
In the United States, the very first food model was released in 1992. This model stated that one should have 6-11 servings of carbohydrates, 3-4 vegetable servings, 2-4 portions of fruit, 2-3 of dairy and protein, and to have fats, oils, and sugars occasionally. This model does a great job of stating how much one should eat, but the portion sizes aren’t as accurate as the modern day model we use.
MyPyramid
The second model is a modified version of the first pyramid that was released in 2005. It shows all the required foods a person should eat. The problem with this one is that the proportions are off as well. It also implies that as a person reaches the top, they should eat less, which isn’t true.
MyPlate
In 2011, First Lady Michelle Obama released the MyPlate. This model is a great way to visualize how much of each kind of food someone should eat. This model shows that grains and vegetables should take up a little bit more than half your meal, with fruits and protein taking up the other portion. It also states that a cup of dairy(or dairy substitute) is recommended too. This model is what’s taught in schools. So, as of now, this is the most accurate model.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates(carbs) come from foods such as bread, pasta, and rice.
They are your main source of energy. Carbs break down into sugar, which keeps your body running through the day. Without carbohydrates, the body would have to rely on protein, which would lead to muscle atrophy, and fats, which would result in severe weight loss.
Vegetables
Vegetables(veggies) include potatoes, spinach, and carrots.
Veggies provide essential vitamins for the body. Eating a diet with lots of vegetables can lead to…
Reduced risk for heart disease,
Reduce chances of specific cancers,
Less chance of diabetes and obesity
Improve bone density
Reduce chances of kidney stones
Healthy weight loss
Proteins
Proteins include foods such as meat, eggs, and beans. You need to have protein to…
Build
The bones, muscles, skin, hair, and nails are all made out of protein. Eating protein helps to build and form these features.
Repair
Because some parts of the body are made with protein, it needs protein to fix damaged or weak parts.
Oxygenation
Your bones are made of protein, and they also make red blood cells. These are responsible for carrying oxygen throughout your body.
Digest
About half of the protein you eat turns into enzymes, which help digesting food.
Regulate
Proteins also help maintain and regulate hormonal balance.
Some additional benefits of eating protein include the following:
Building muscles
Decreasing the loss of muscle
Faster recovery after injury
Less hunger
Maintaining a healthy weight
Fruits
Examples of fruits include apples, bananas, and watermelons.
One thing I love about fruit is all the variety. On a hot summer day, I love eating cold, crisp apples. If I need a study snack, blueberries are my go to thing. If I’m feeling nauseous, I pour some lemon juice in my mouth. Trust me it works.
Fruits are high in vitamins, minerals, fiber, folic acid, and potassium.
Having lots of fruit in your diet can lead to..
Healthy gums, which leads to less chance of heart disease
Growth and repair of tissue
Whole fruit contains fiber, and juice tends to contain little to no dietary fiber
Reduces chances of getting heart disease
Reduces risks for certain cancers
Reduces obesity
Reduces chance of diabetes
Improves bone density
Reduces kidney stones
Lowers blood pressure
Healthy weight loss
Dairy
Dairy includes milk, cheese, and yogurt. All of these products have...
Vitamin D
Helps body maintain and phosphorus
Calcium
Used for building bones
Potassium
Used for maintaining the body functions, heartbeat, and helps the cell functions
In Defense of Food
This is a documentary I watched in middle school. It was about how much food, and what food you should eat.
Eat Food
Try to avoid processed foods. Real foods are one of the best things for your body.
Mostly Plants
Plants have great nutrients, and are one of the best things you could eat.
Not Too Much
Overeating can lead to serious consequences.
Break the Rules Sometimes
It’s ok to break the rules, only sometimes though.
Conclusion
If someone has access to fresh, nutritious food, then the should try to eat it. All of the food groups are important, and it's necessary to get a bit of everything in your diet.
Sources
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