Encyclopedia Of Foods

The Nutriants and Other Food Substances 3P a r t IThe latest research shows that the foods we choose to eat—or not to eat—may increaseour life span or the quality of our lives. Not a day goes by, it seems, without feature newsstories about food and its impact on health. The message that we can reduce our chances ofdeveloping cancer, high blood pressure, diabetes, and other diseases by maintaining a healthyweight, decreasing the fat and calories in our diets, eating more vitamin- and mineral-rich fruitsand vegetables, and getting fit is becoming a familiar one. As more research is done, the linkbetween diet and the risk of developing common diseases such as heart disease or cancer isbecoming clearer and clearer. Thanks to this research, we are beginning to understand thedietary and lifestyle factors that are most likely to ensure a long, healthy life. And the goodnews is that we can incorporate these factors into our own lives without sacrificing taste orgiving up the foods we enjoy, by discovering and eating tastier, nutritious fruits, vegetables,and whole grains.Despite the well-publicized connections among diet, weight, and health, statistics showthat the prevalence of overweight and obesity is increasing at an alarming rate, particularly inchildren and teens. So why do we cling to our unhealthful habits? For many, the nutritionand fitness guidelines published by the government and by health organizations may seem overwhelming.We may have questions about why we should eat what the experts recommend,what foods are or are not nutritious, and whether it is better to obtain some nutrients fromfood or from a multivitamin or nutritional supplement. Finally, for most of us, eating ispleasurable, and familiar foods are comforting. The idea of making a major change in the kindsand amounts of food that we eat is daunting.Part I of this book provides you with an overview of the principles of good nutrition,provides you with insight as to why the experts recommend what they recommend, and thengives you some practical tips on how to change the way you eat while still enjoying goodfood. Chapter 1 begins by reviewing the current guidelines for nutrition and fitness. Chapter2 provides an overview of the basics of nutrition, including a description of the knownnutrients and other food components. Chapter 3 discusses the role of good nutrition in theprevention and treatment of common diseases. Chapters 4 and 5 providesuggestions for planning and preparing meals and selecting healthfulfoods. They give tips on eating out, shopping, reading food labels,and modifying family favorites with healthful recipe makeovers.Sample recipes are provided to show that following a well-balanced,nutritious diet can be an enjoyable undertaking, and 2 weeks ofmenus are given to help you get started.3