Health and Nutrition

Health

As officially defined by the World Health Organization, a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.

Fast facts on health

Here are some key points about health. More detail is in the main article.

• Health can be defined as physical, mental, and social well being, and as a resource for living a full life.
• It refers not only to the absence of disease, but the ability to recover and bounce back from illness and other problems.
• Factors for good health include genetics, the environment, relationships, and education.
• A healthful diet, exercise, screening for diseases, and coping strategies can all enhance a person's health.

Types of health

Mental and physical health are the two most commonly discussed types of health. We also talk about "spiritual health," "emotional health," and "financial health," among others. These have also been linked to lower stress levels and mental and physical wellbeing.

1. Physical health: Its refers to our physical body weather our body is performing well or not. It is influenced by the levels of physical activity, adequate nutrition, rest, environments etc.

2.Mental health: Mental health is a level of psychological well-being, or an absence of mental illness. It is the “psychological state of someone who is functioning at a satisfactory level of emotional and behavioral adjustment”.

Nutrition

 Nutrition is the food at work in the body. It includes everything that happens from eating food to its usage in various functions of body.

According to WHO,

“Nutrition is the intake of food, considered in relation to the body’s dietary needs. Good nutrition – an adequate, well balanced diet combined with regular physical activity – is a cornerstone of good health. Poor nutrition can lead to reduced immunity, increased susceptibility to disease, impaired physical and mental development, and reduced productivity.”

The Relationship between Health and Nutrition

Nutrition plays a role in promoting good health. So, we have to careful about the foods and nutrients which should be emphasized in our diets, and how they can enhance our health. Diets full of fruits and veggies, whole grains, nuts, and lean meats have proven health benefits like lowering blood pressure, improving glucose control in diabetics, weight loss, improving arthritis and reducing the risk of cancer and cardiovascular events and so on.

We should also learn about the specific nutrients that can impact on health. For example,

• Plant pigments are found in bright orange and red fruits and vegetables, which may prevent and slow the progression about eye diseases.
• Calcium helps to keep bones strong.
• Vitamin B plays a role in maintaining brain health.
• Flavonoids from many plants may improve the health of our cardiovascular systems.

It’s not surprising that physical activity can help to maintain a healthy weight, improve mood and sleep habits and boost overall health. And it’s clear that a well-balanced diet, full of nutritious foods is crucial to good health.