A regular diet includes all necessary nutrients from the five food groups and is important for proper bodily function. Plant-based substitutes can be used for those who do not eat animal products. Many health organizations promote healthy eating plans that follow the principles of a regular diet.
A regular diet is one that gives a person all the vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients they need to stay healthy. The exact foods included in a regular diet vary, but generally contain options from each of the five main food groups. Several well-known organizations promote healthy eating plans that can help a person maintain a regular diet.
The body needs certain basic nutrients to function properly. For example, the sugars found in carbohydrates are needed for energy, and fiber is needed for proper digestion. Similarly, the proteins and fats found in meat, fish, and poultry are necessary for muscle building and repair, as well as proper function of nerve and brain cells. Vitamins and minerals are also important. Calcium is a key component of bone formation, and iron and vitamin B12 are critical for red blood cell development and function.
Following a regular diet is generally considered the best way to supply the body with all the vitamins, minerals and nutrients it requires. A regular diet generally combines a variety of grains, vegetables, fruits, dairy products, and meat, fish, and beans. No one food or group contains all the necessary nutrients the body needs to function, so eating a variety of items helps ensure all nutritional needs are met. This also includes eating different types of foods within a food group, such as vegetables of all colors.
People who cannot or prefer not to eat animal products can follow a regular diet substituting plant-based protein and calcium-rich foods. For example, a vegan can replace milk with a calcium-enriched soy beverage and use beans, nuts, and seeds in place of lean meats, poultry, and fish. People who eliminate entire food groups or types of food without finding suitable substitutes often cannot get all the nutrients their bodies need. For example, those who follow diets that eliminate all grains often have a hard time getting the amount of fiber the body needs for proper digestion. Those who eliminate all dairy without adding other calcium-rich foods are generally not getting the recommended amount of calcium for proper bone health.
There are numerous health organizations that promote certain healthy eating plans, many of which subscribe to the elements of a regular diet. For example, the US Department of Agriculture dietary guidelines promote eating a variety of foods in moderation to help ensure adequate nutrient intake without excessive calorie consumption. In general, the plan allows for customization based on age, activity levels, and dietary restrictions, such as the exclusion of meat and other animal products. The American Heart Association and the British Dietary Association offer similar guidance in each organization’s respective healthy eating plans.
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