Balanced, nutritional diets are an essential part of a healthy lifestyle. Researchers are still uncovering which factors contribute to dietary choices.
A recent observational study published in Nature CommunicationsTrusted Source examines several environmental factors that may impact people’s food choices.
The authors conclude that these factors have different levels of influence among different sections of the population.
A healthy diet is critical to good health. While experts constantly evaluate the best dietary practices, there are several general components to a healthy diet.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO)Trusted Source, a healthy diet should include the following elements:
- five portions or 400 grams (g) of fruits and vegetables daily
- legumes, nuts, and whole grains
- limited amounts of fat
- limited quantities of added sugar
Different people have different food needs. It might help to talk with a doctor or dietitian to develop suitable meal plans.
Healthy dietsTrusted Source also decrease people’s risk for specific health problems, such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
Researchers are constantly trying to understand what factors influence people’s food choices. Then, it’s possible to modify these factors to steer people toward healthier food choices.
