A good diet

When a person’s body is well, when his mind is sound, active and he feels in good spirits he is in good health.

The well being of the body, mind, and emotions are all parts of good health and are all closely tied together. Sound mental and emotional attitudes are most important to general health, but keeping the body well is the foundation of good health. The best way to keep your body sound and strong is to see that it is cared for properly.

Proper care of the body begins with a good diet. The foods you eat and fluids you drink supply the body with the materials it needs to do its work and to grow.

Different foods contain different substances needed by the body. Foods like meat, milk, fish, cheese, and eggs contain proteins. These are substances needed to repair and build muscle and bone. Proteins also supply some of the fuel that the body turns into energy.

Carbohydrates and fats are the body’s main sources of energy. Foods like bread, cereals, fruits, vegetables and sugar contain carbohydrate. Cream, butter, mayonnaise, and nuts contain fats.

If the diets includes proteins, fats and carbohydrates, it also includes the vitamins and minerals you need. Vitamins are chemicals that help the body make proper use of the food you eat. Minerals help build some of the body’s structures and help adjust some of its functions. (In certain cases a doctor may feel that extra vitamins are necessary, and he will prescribe them).

Water is needed to help carry food to the cells and to help the body get rid of waste matter. Since most foods contain water, a large part of your daily need is supplied by the foods you eat. But, in addition, you should drink several glasses of liquid a day.

Exercise is another important part of the daily care of the body. Physical exercise helps keep weight under control by using some of the energy supplied by food. Exercise also keeps the muscles healthy and in good tone.