They say you are what you eat. Your diet affects your physical as well as mental health. In addition to increasing your risk of health conditions, unhealthy foods such as ultra-processed foods and sugary snacks and drinks can speed up the aging of your cells, accelerating the aging process.
It is, therefore, essential to add nutrient-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains, lean meat, and poultry products to your diet.
Here are some benefits of a healthy diet by Dr. Guy – one of the well-known concierge doctors near you in Sonoma.
Improved Heart Health
Heart conditions are becoming increasingly common. An unhealthy diet high in sugars and saturated and trans fats can negatively impact your heart health. One way to reduce your risk of heart disease is to add heart-healthy foods such as whole grains, leafy green vegetables, and avocados to your diet.
Reduced Cancer Risk
Studies show that a high concentration of free radicals in the body can cause cancer. Antioxidants remove free radicals, helping lower your risk of cancer. Some foods high in antioxidants include nuts and seeds, dark leafy greens, berries, and carrots.
A 2014 study found that:
- A diet rich in fruits can reduce the risk of upper gastrointestinal tract cancers.
- A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and high-fiber foods can reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.
- A high-fiber diet can reduce the risk of liver cancer.
Improved Gut Health
Many chronic metabolic diseases begin in the gut. The beneficial bacteria in the colon play an important role in metabolism and digestion and help the body fight harmful bacteria.
A diet rich in fruits, legumes, whole grains, and fibrous vegetables may feed good gut bacteria, allowing them to thrive and grow.
Helps With Weight Loss
Obesity is a silent killer. It can increase one’s risk of chronic health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, some types of cancers, and heart disease. It is estimated that around 2.8 million deaths can be attributed to obesity yearly. Being overweight is also a risk factor for mental health issues such as anxiety and mood disorders.
Healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, and beans pack a nutritional punch and are lower in calories than processed foods. High-fiber foods, including oats, berries, and cruciferous vegetables, can help keep you feeling full for a longer time, so you can beat food cravings.
Can Help You Sleep Better
Many important biological processes occur when we sleep. The body repairs damaged cells and releases proteins and hormones during sleep.
Sleep deprivation has been linked to increased risk for many diseases and conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure.
If you have difficulty falling or staying asleep, add sleep-inducing foods such as fatty fish, walnuts, almonds, prunes, and string cheese to your diet, and you’ll sleep like a baby.
Dr. Guy is one of the most revered concierge doctors near you in Sonoma. Committed to helping his patients lead a healthier, more fulfilling life, Dr. Guy combines nutritional counseling with traditional care. To talk to him, call (707) 938-1255.
