Eating healthy is a crucial part of overall well-being, and the first step in eating healthy is to understand the basic components of food. In general, a healthy diet consists of the following in moderation: protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, fat, and water.

With respect to minerals, vitamins, and water, the only way the body acquires energy is through the consumption of carbohydrates, protein, and fat. The first, carbohydrates, is the primary form of energy for the body, supplying between 45% and 65% of all calories. Specifically, carbohydrates are sugars, and all carbohydrates are broken down into glucose, a very simple sugar that is then processed. Great sources of carbohydrates are vegetables, the acai berry, and whole grains, as these are also rich in nutrients. Unhealthy sources of carbohydrates include soft drinks, candy, and pastries.

Proteins are chemical compounds essential for the formation and maintenance of body tissue. A protein itself is composed of amino acids, of which 22 are necessary for proper function. Unfortunately, the body does not produce eight of these vital amino acids, so they must be obtained from specific foods. Some foods that can provide all of these eight amino acids include fish, poultry, eggs, and acai berries. So, how much protein must one consume? A good rule of thumb is 0.36 grams of protein per pound of body weight daily.

Fat is yet another important component of a healthy diet, but the key in fat consumption is moderation. Even though one is supposed to get 20% to 35% of their calories from fat, many adults today consume too much, leading to increased risks for obesity and heart disease. The best type of fat to incorporate into a healthy diet is an unsaturated fat as opposed to a trans-fat or saturated fat.

Besides carbohydrates, protein, and fat, the healthy diet must contain adequate amounts of water, minerals, and vitamins. Minerals are chemical elements key in body function, and are not produced in the body. For example, proper potassium and sodium levels are vital to nervous system function. Vitamins, on the other hand, are compounds necessary for reactions in the body. There are only 13 essential vitamins, some water-soluble and some fat-soluble. The solubility difference means that fat-soluble vitamins are stored longer in the body, whereas water-soluble vitamins are eliminated by the urinary system.

Last but not least, water is essential for the healthy diet as water is the backbone of all reactions that take place in the body. By staying hydrated, not only will you feel better, but have more energy, process food better, and sleep better.

So, ready to make the change and leave junk food behind? Switching to a healthy diet may not always be easy, but you have nothing to lose, and everything to gain. Start experiencing a better quality of life today!