Nutrition

Throughout the human body, a relationship exists between both structure and function, indeed it can be said that structure dictates function. This point remains central even to nutrition, whereby the quality of food within the diet and the specific chemical composition of that food, have profound effect upon the structure and function of the human body at its most fundamental level.

Your body can only be as healthy as the fuel it's fed. Rubbish in, equals rubbish out. Without adequate nutrition, the body will not be able to function as well as it might. This can mean poor concentration, low energy levels, and low immunity (more illnesses).

Skin, hair, teeth, bones and muscles will not be as strong and healthy as they could be. Children may not reach their true height potential if they don't have adequate nutrition.

Overeating does not necessarily mean that the body is getting all the nutrients it needs. Quite often unhealthy food is substituted for necessary nutritious food, and so overweight people can suffer from poor nutrition - as well as the physical burden of excess weight.

Obesity is a health problem as it increases the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and several cancers. Added to this, being obese can limit movement and in this way it can reduce social interaction which is necessary for emotional wellbeing.

This all sounds pretty negative. But of course the opposite is true. Eating a nutritious diet means all of these health issues can be avoided.

Even if you are quite overweight, keep in mind that every little bit helps. Weight loss of 1kg per month is a great achievement.

Below is a copy of the USDA's Food Pyramid (for more information on the Food Pyramid visit www.mypyramid.gov)