nutrition

Most of us try to do everything we can to maintain healthy bodies. We exercise, take vitamins and eat properly. Even though we may think we are eating well, however, there can be things missing from our diets. One thing that many people don’t get the proper amount of is protein. Protein is a macronutrient that is necessary for our survival. It plays a large role in the growth and recovery of muscles and other soft tissues. Protein is what our skin, hair, fingernails and even our cells are made of.

Did you know that there are more than 23 million people just in the United States alone who have some form of diabetes? This is a relatively small number when compared to the amount of people all over the world who have diabetes. This is a serious disease that, when not properly treated, can lead to a number of adverse health conditions, including kidney and heart disease.

Everyone needs protein. But why exactly is it so important? Protein is the primary component for muscles, which means you need it for muscle mass to grow and heal. Athletes and bodybuilders use protein supplements to aid muscle recover before and after workouts, and even use them to replace meals in some circumstances. Using meal replacements is also helpful for people who are trying to reduce their calories and their weight.

In today’s world, where many people equate thin with beautiful, many people choose to try fad diets. The biggest problem is that most of these fad diets are just that: fads. Sure, you may lose a few pounds on these diets, but you will probably end up putting the weight back on, plus a few extra pounds. The only healthy way to lose weight and actually keep it off is to exercise regularly and follow a healthy, well-balanced diet.

More than 23 million people in the United States alone have diabetes, a disease that happens when the body is unable to make enough insulin or is not able to properly use insulin. Instead of moving into the cells, sugars build up in the body, which can lead to a number of serious health issues, including kidney disease, and heart disease. After being diagnosed with diabetes, patients may think that life as they know it is over. Actually, diabetics can live long, healthy lives, as long as they take their medications, exercise, eat healthy and keep their weight down. There are two main types of diabetes – juvenile diabetes and Type 2 diabetes. A third type of diabetes is known as gestational diabetes.

Because teens are still growing, they may need slightly more calories than an adult of roughly the same size, however weight, calories and body satisfaction can be a major problem for most teens with many of them at serious risk for developing one of three major eating disorders. These include overweight/obesity, anorexia nervosa and bulimia. All three can cause serious medical and psychological disorders that can lead to other problems as well.

The most common inherited disorder in Caucasians occurs in approximately one in each 2,000 births and will ultimately prove fatal. (Source: Papalia, Olds and Feldman, 2008) This condition is called Cystic Fibrosis, or CF. Although it is deadly, in recent decades patients have been known to live longer. In fact, while at one time children with this condition were not expected to live past the age of 21, many are living well into their thirties and older. And, although it is dangerous, some female patients are even getting pregnant and delivering babies.