Good nutrition and a healthy lifestyle are seen as one of the most important components of maintaining good physical and mental health.

The fuel that we give our bodies comes directly from the food that we eat. The foods we eat contain three basic nutrients - carbohydrates, protein, and fats - as well as vitamins, minerals and other micronutrients. Water is also a vital component of our diet. It is these nutrients that allow us to sustain life by providing us with the basic materials our bodies need to carry on their daily functions. To be able to choose the proper foods, and to better understand why these foods may sometimes need to be supported with supplements, a clear idea of the components of a healthy diet is needed.

Every individual is different just as individual nutrients differ in form and function and in the amount that is needed by the body. Nutrients are involved in all body processes, from combating infection to repairing tissue to helping our brain function to its fullest extent.

If the body does not receive the proper nutrients, normal body functions can be impaired. Although no outward signs of illness may be apparent, it does not necessarily mean that the body is in a healthy state. In today's diet sometimes we do not get the nutrients that we need from the food we eat because of the cooking or processing of the food. Cooking and processing can destroy vital nutrients the body needs to function properly.

"You are what you eat" is an old adage that is still very relevant in today's world of fast and convenience foods. Although we live in a land of plenty, often our diet is not balanced and absorption of vitamins and minerals is impaired. So maybe we should change the adage to: "we are what we absorb". Many health problems can be rectified by simple dietary changes.

By understanding the principles of good nutrition and making lifestyle changes to incorporate these principles into everyday life, our state of health can be improved, disease can be avoided and a harmonious state can be attained.

City Naturopath stocks a quality range of nutritional supplements. Eleanor is available for consultations to discuss any area of your nutrition that may be of concern to you.