Having a diverse range of food items in your daily diet plan is key to leading a healthy lifestyle. Bringing diversity to your plate can provide you with better nourishment which is essential in enhancing your overall body health. Considering today’s world, all our meals should be rich in carbohydrates, proteins, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. For that one must ensure that the daily meal contains a wide variety of food items. These different groups of food items will provide your body with energy, help build muscles, and keep all the infections away. Apart from the nutritional value, a diverse meal also adds colours and flavours to your overall diet.
Why Should You Diversify Your Plate?
There are multiple reasons why one should diversify their plate and add different food items. They include –
Nutritional Needs
A balanced meal ensures your body gets the right amount of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and healthy fats.
Fight Chronic Diseases
A wide variety of food items on your plate can also help prevent several lifestyle diseases which include Type 2 Diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Healthy Immune System
A diverse plate goes a long way in improving your body’s overall immune system by providing it with the required nutrients.
Maintaining Body Functions
A wider selection of food items also helps you maintain your energy levels. It ensures your body functions normally throughout the day.
Strengthening Bones And Muscles
A balanced diet is crucial in strengthening your body. The wide variety of nutrients will make your bones, muscles, teeth, skin, and eyes stronger.
How To Diversify Your Plate?
Here are some ways you can diversify your plate to improve the overall nutrition balance in your meals.
Add Seasonal And Local Produce
You must include seasonal and fresh food items in your diet. Adding a mix of vegetables such as spinach, carrots, and broccoli will provide you with a range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Proteins Are Necessary
Proteins are essential for tissue growth and repair in your body. Instead of just stuffing your meals with meat, try adding alternative sources such as eggs, tofu, chickpeas, and soya.
Healthy Fats Are Important
Apart from adding taste and fullness, healthy fats also carry a ton of nutritional value. Ensure that your plate has food items rich in Omega-3 and other fatty acids. They can be found in olive oil, nuts, and seeds.
Spices Provide Added Nutrition
Experimenting with herbs and spices can help maximize the taste and flavour of your dishes. Fresh herbs and spices such as rosemary provide your body with antioxidants whereas turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
