Bailey Clack, a dietitian at Baylor All Saints Medical Center at Fort Worth answers frequently asked question about maintaining a healthy diet.
What is nutrition?
Nutrition is the science of food, the nutrients they provide, and how the nutrients are utilized by the body. It is the process of nourishment based on the body’s dietary needs.
Why is nutrition important?
The World Health Organization states “Good nutrition – an adequate, well balanced diet combined with regular physical activity – is the foundation of good health. Poor nutrition can lead to reduced immunity, increased susceptibility to disease, impaired physical and mental development, and reduced productivity.”
Which foods should you buy organic?
According to the Environmental Working Group’s list called the “Dirty Dozen” apples, celery, sweet bell pepper, peaches, strawberries, nectarines (imported), grapes, spinach, lettuce, cucumbers, blueberries (domestic), and potatoes should be purchased organic. However it is far better to eat any fruit and vegetables as opposed to none.
How many calories should a person eat daily?
Every person has different calorie requirements based on their body’s needs and activity levels. However, people usually require between 1800-2400 calories per day to maintain their weight. To prevent decrease in metabolism women should eat at least 1,200 calories and men 1,500 calorie per day. Healthy weight loss is no more than 2 pounds per week.
How much in the daily food group should a person eat to stay healthy?
The amount of each food group needed differs for each person based on their gender, age, and physical activity level. Specific information may be obtained at www.choosemyplate.gov.
However, the daily ranges generally include:
1-2 cups fruit
2-3 cups vegetables
5-8 ounce equivalents grains
5-7 ounce equivalents protein
2-3 cups dairy
5-7 teaspoons oils
What is Vitamin D?
Vitamin D is a fat soluble vitamin that can be obtained from skin exposure to the sun. It is present in very few foods, however it can be found in some dairy products and breads. It plays an important role when it comes to bone health because it promotes calcium and phosphorus absorption. (Adapted from www.eatright.org)
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About Baylor Scott & White Health
As the largest not-for-profit health system in the state of Texas, Baylor Scott & White is empowering customers to live well by reimagining traditional healthcare — creating more convenient, personalized and informed experiences. It serves more than three million customers through 53 hospitals, including flagship academic medical centers in Dallas, Fort Worth and Temple; the Baylor Scott & White Research Institute; 1,300+ access points; 59,000+ team members; and its leading digital platform — MyBSWHealth. The system's award-winning employer solutions include Baylor Scott & White Health Plan, Baylor Scott & White Quality Alliance and Levanto — a company offering digitally enabled health products. Founded as a Christian ministry of healing more than a century ago, Baylor Scott & White's mission is to promote the health and well-being of all individuals, families and communities. For more information, visit: BSWHealth.com
