Balanced nutrition is key in keeping healthy
A healthy, balanced diet not only makes us look and feel our best, but it also helps to prevent and even improve common diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. In addition, having plenty of vitamins and minerals in our diet helps our immune systems fight disease and keeps our bones strong. Eating a healthy diet with enough protein helps with wound healing after surgery or an accidental injury. Also, the fiber in whole grains, fruits, and vegetable keeps our digestive systems healthy.
Lack of nutrients in our diets can lead to malnutrition. This can even happen if you are getting enough to eat. Even a shortage of one vitamin or mineral can cause problems. Symptoms may include fatigue, lightheadedness, or weight loss. However, you may have no symptoms at all.
Unfortunately, with all of the available nutritional supplements, fad diets, and information on the internet, nutrition seems to be becoming more and more complicated. In addition, groceries stores are filled with unhealthy foods and fast food chains taunt us as we drive by with our bellies growling after a stressful day at work. These temptations make eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low fat dairy increasingly difficult.
If you have questions regarding what food choices are best for you, your family doctor can help. Based upon information about your current and past state of health, as well as your personal goals, you and your family doctor can work together to develop a nutritional plan that works for you. This may include blood tests and a discussion about what supplements may be helpful for you. It could also include providing you with information about how to read food labels or a referral to one of our nutritionists at the Wellness Center. The best place to start is to make an appointment with any of the family practices within the Washington Health System and let your family doctor know that you are concerned about your nutrition. We will do our best to help.
About the author
Dr. Rachel Lock was born and raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from Duquesne University with a Bachelor of Science degree. Dr. Lock obtained her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree (D.O.) from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in Bradenton, Florida. Dr. Lock’s Husband, Dr. Donald Lock, is also a resident physician at Washington Hospital. He is also in the Navy. After training, they plan to serve their time with the Navy and then eventually return to western Pennsylvania to practice family medicine.