America's diet needs change...

A change in American’s diet must occur in order to prevent the onset of obesity. Learning proper nutrition is the first step to overcoming this problem. In what ways will adequate nutrition improve the health of Americans? Proper nutrition will reduce the risk for chronic diseases, such as the ones listed above. Taking in less sodium, higher calcium, and less caffeine will reduce the risk for high blood pressure. Reducing total fat intake to within 20%-35% of total calories, decreasing saturated fat intake to less than 10%, and increasing intake of omega-3 fatty acids will lower the risk for heart disease. Limiting cholesterol intake can greatly help in preventing plaque buildup in the arteries. Eating more fiber that is found in vegetables, fruits, and whole grain breads will reduce the risk for diabetes because the fiber will slow the release of sugar into the blood stream. In addition, eating more fiber will increase satiety causing the person to feel fuller. Small diet changes dramatically can dramatically help reduce the risk for obesity. Simple things such as not drinking that extra coke, eating many small meals a day, not taking that last trip to the buffet bar, not drinking more than 2-3 alcoholic drinks, and following the food pyramid can all help in maintaining a healthful weight.