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Food Nutrition

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Food nutrition is the study of good dieting practices. A food nutritionist can recommend how people can achieve their maximum health by eating well.

People interested in good food nutrition have a number of options. One of the most basic foundations of food nutrition is to control food intake. A good diet only provides the calories needed to maintain or lose weight. However, many people in developed countries ignore this basic idea of food nutrition, which has led to a rise in obesity.

The food pyramid prepared by the Department of Agriculture is another valuable resource for good food nutrition. This simple chart reminds people of the best proportion of foods to have. Grains, the most plentiful food to have, is at the bottom. Fruits and vegetables and dairy products are at the next level, and meats are at the level above that. The food group one should consume the least of is junk food. The food pyramid replaces the old food nutrition chart of the four food groups.

Specialists in food nutrition recommend eating "whole foods." This means to stay away from processed foods such as white flour and white rice, as many essential vitamins have been removed from these foodstuffs during the process used to whiten them. Whole-wheat flour and whole rice is preferred. Whole fruits and vegetables are also preferred. According to food nutritionists, whole fruits and vegetables are those eaten uncooked, as cooking can rob the fruits and vegetables of their health value. Steaming, however, is permissible. Also, keep the skins of fruits and vegetables on when they are eaten, as the skin holds most of the nutrients.

Low-fat is also important in food nutrition. Whole foods contain low fat naturally, so those interested in good dietary practices should focus on those and avoid processed foods. However, avoid whole milk, which is high in milk fat. Use two percent milk or skim milk instead. Cutting fat from cuts of steak and skin from chicken will also help to lower fat. Avoid frying meat as well, and bake, boil, roast, broil or steam meat instead. Creamy sauces should also be avoided in favor of herbs and spices, and use egg whites instead of egg yolks. For people who need a cream sauce substitute, use low-fat yogurt.

Always check with your doctor or physician before starting any Food Nutrition or diet plan.