We all know that people are becoming larger and larger. But, did you know that 64% of Americans over the age of twenty are clinically obese? That's staggering! Two thirds of the adult population is at risk for obesity-related mortality. On the bright side, people seem to be taking notice and want to change their diets and take control of their health.

Getting A New Outlook On Your Health

For the first time on over 10 years a new dietary guideline was released. The UDSA revealed the new food pyramid in April 2005. This pyramid makes allowances for different lifestyles. I think that we all have noticed that Uncle Jim's slow metabolism may be just overeating while Aunt Sue seems to eat everything in sight without gaining a pound. With the 'one size fits all' theory officially shattered, people can now take more control of their diet and base it around factors such as activity level and nutritional needs.

A Common Thread For Everyone In The Dietary Pyramid

Since there are multiple pyramids that now cater to different people's nutritional needs you may wonder if there is any common ground. Yes, there is. The one item that everyone is encouraged to consume not just daily, but multiple times each day are whole foods. Whole foods, also known as 'super foods' fuel the body with much needed nutrition. Whole foods include fruit, vegetables, beans, grains and milk.

Does That Mean I Need To Go Organic?

Whole foods are not the same thing as organic foods. Whole foods can be organic, but not all organic food is whole food. Organic food is food that has no pesticides used in the growth process of fruits and vegetables or added chemicals in processed foods. Whole foods, on the other hand, are unprocessed or refined.

Why Are Whole Foods So Much Better?

Due to processing or refinement, food loses much of its nutritional value. Essential vitamins and minerals are stripped from the foods that you are purchasing to fuel not only your body, but your family's. How is your body supposed to maintain optimal health without the necessary components?

Now, you can supplement your diet with a multi vitamin, but a vitamin is not a cure all. Vitamins and minerals found in whole foods are easier for the body to digest and therefore your body absorbs more of these nutrients. It's generally agreed that a supplement without the addition of natural food is not going to fuel your body as best as possible or help you achieve optimal health.

The Ugly Side Of Whole Foods

There really are few drawbacks to eating a diet rich in whole food. The biggest potential problem is overeating. Even nutritious food needs to be eaten in moderation. Gaining weight is not due solely to chocolate milkshakes and pie. People gain weight purely because they consume more calories than their body requires. However, it is much harder to overindulge on fresh green beans than a piece of pecan pie. Just remember to keep portions in mind and your diet balanced.

Summary:

In order to achieve a balanced diet you must eat whole foods. Simply replace processed food for whole food and watch your energy level and mental clarity increase. Your body will thank you for providing it with the vitamins and minerals that it needs by fighting off disease and keeping you youthful.