You’ve probably heard the saying, “You are what you eat.” Most of us know that eating well is fundamental to maintaining good health. However, many surprising problems can stem from, or be worsened by, bad nutrition.
Here at Monarque Health & Wellness in Ashland, Oregon, we are big believers in the importance of healthy living and healthy eating. That’s why our team offers personalized nutritional support. Eating nourishing, balanced meals can ensure you’re enjoying the best health possible.
Here are just a few of the negative health consequences caused by poor nutrition in your daily life.
While many of us think of eating as an opportunity to enjoy new flavors or to socialize, it’s important to remember that we eat to fuel our bodies. Whole, unprocessed meals of mostly vegetables, fruit, lean protein, and whole grains contribute to healthy functioning and increased energy levels.
This is because whole foods are often rich in natural vitamins and minerals while also being full of fiber. On the other hand, a diet that is high in salt, sugar, processed foods, and simple starches can lead to spikes and crashes in your blood sugar, leaving you feeling lethargic and low in energy.
Eating poorly can also decrease your body’s ability to fight off illness. Research has found that those with a poor diet are more likely to fall ill, and take longer to make a full recovery from illnesses.
By contrast, those with healthy diets have been found to have stronger overall immune systems, allowing them to fight off illnesses. In addition to making healthy choices, remember to choose a variety of foods to make sure you’re getting a full range of your needed vitamins and minerals.
There are many factors that can lead to a lower quality of sleep, and poor nutrition is one of them. Unhealthy diets can lead to obesity, which is correlated with conditions such as sleep apnea, snoring, and restless legs syndrome.
Even if you have a healthy body mass index (BMI), a poor diet can lead to developing conditions such as heartburn and acid reflux, which can further interrupt a good night’s sleep.
Just as sugary, starchy foods like cakes, biscuits, and white bread can cause energy crashes, they can also affect your mood the same way, leading to increased levels of depression and low mood. This is thought to be because they have a high glycemic load and cause a cycle of blood sugar spikes and insulin responses.
On the other hand, recent research has shown that people who eat a healthy diet with lots of vegetables, fruit, and whole grains report decreased levels of depression and fatigue.
Having a poor diet might seem like a short-term issue, but it could have devastating consequences for your long-term cognitive function. Multiple studies have identified a link between nutrients found in a healthy diet and a reduced risk of dementia and cognitive decline.
While skipping a burger and having a salad may not seem that life-changing at first, it could protect your cognitive function for years to come.
If you’re struggling to make healthy choices this year, you’re not alone. Call our team at 541-326-4777 or book an in-person appointment or virtual visit to get support with your nutrition and take the first step on your path toward better health.
