Your health with Pharmacist Advice

 

Diet & Nutrition

We have all heard the saying ‘You are what you eat’ It is very obvious that the food that we consume can have either a very beneficial affect on our health or can in fact contribute to many critical health problems.  The food we eat contains 2 main categories of nutrients:

a) Macronutrients: These include carbohydrates, fats and proteins. Most of our diet is made up of macronutrients and they provide us with our energy and the building blocks for all of our tissues and cells.

b) Micronutrients: These include vitamins and minerals. We do not need large amounts of micronutrients on a daily basis, but consuming the correct amounts is essential for the proper functioning of our body. In fact, a deficiency of specific vitamins or minerals can contribute to problems such as lowered immune system function, poor energy levels, nerve and muscle problems and can increase the susceptibility to osteoporosis and anaemia.

One of the most significant health problems that result from poor nutrition and an imbalance of what we eat is being overweight or obese. The current rate of overweight and obesity in Australia is rising at an alarming rate. Current figures estimate that 67% of men, 52% of women and approximately 1 in 5 children (20%) are overweight or obese. Many preventable lifestyle diseases are associated with being overweight including heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Poor nutrition can also contribute to the risk of developing many other health problems including digestive disorders, urinary tract problems, joint problems and even some cancers.

Eating a healthy, well balanced diet does not have to be difficult. Current recommendations for healthy eating are known as the Australian Dietary Guidelines. They suggest that all Australians eat nutritious foods and follow an active lifestyle to help achieve good health throughout life.