My Go-To Foods for a Healthy, Balanced Diet: Carbs, Protein, and Fats
- mae
- May 20, 2022
- 2 min read
Your nutrition is one of the most important key parts of your overall physical and mental health. So, being mindful (but NOT RESTRICTIVE) of what you put into your body is something you should do on a daily. Need something for your soul? Cook up a warm bowl of comforting mac and cheese. Need something for movement? Blend up some protein shakes. Below are my go-to ingredients that I buy (almost) every weekend to fulfill any of my needs for the week (whether those needs are comfort, recovery, snacks, and more).
Disclaimer: Do what works for you. Just because I eat one way does not mean you can't eat another way. We have different bodies, different needs, different allergies and intolerances, and different EVERYTHING. So, it only makes sense that we also eat different foods.
#1 - Carbohydrates
Why they are important:
- main source of energy
- aid digestion (especially fiber)
- keeps body functioning
My Go-To Carbohydrates:
- Rice (brown and white)
- Oats
- Vegetables: Broccoli, Bok choy, Spinach, Brussel Sprouts, Asparagus, etc...
- Fruits: Oranges, Apples, Watermelon, Berries
- Granola
- Sweet Potatoes
- Rice cakes
- Whole grain crackers
- Whole wheat bread
- granola bars (especially Nature Valley)
- Whole grain pasta
- Pretzels (especially for school)
#2 - Protein
Why protein is important:
- repair cells
- make new cells
- aid basic growth and development in children, teens, and pregnant women
My Go-To Protein:
- chicken (any part of the chicken)
- tofu
- plain Greek yogurt (yogurt + honey is another alternative I often opt for)
- turkey
- fish/seafood (tuna is especially high in protein!)
- chickpeas/black beans
- egg whites
- cream cheese
- cheese (especially feta)
#3 - Healthy Fats
Why they're important:
- give energy
- support cell function (especially brain cells)
- absorb important nutrients
- produce important hormones
My Go-To Fats:
- avocado
- chia seeds
- olive oil
- mayo
- butter
- whole eggs
- dark chocolate
- fish (get in those Omega 3's!)
The Importance of Balanced Meals
I'm going to keep this simple because it really is simple. Our body relies on three main macronutrients, which are carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats. Eliminating any of these food groups is bound to do harm to your body. For example, you may develop digestive issues, lose your period, or develop a weak immune system. You need all of three macronutrients to function. Trust me, from my own experience, I KNOW that eating all of these food groups and not restricting has helped me develop a better, healthier relationship with food. Food did not become an enemy, it became a partner. I learned to enjoy it, and that's what life is all about!
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