Everyone strives to eat healthily. It’s not always easy to do and it can be quite challenging to decide what to eat as part of your healthy diet. The most common and basic mistake people make when deciding to eat healthily is thinking that it will be boring. And depriving yourself of foods you love as part of the process. Healthy eating should also not be done only when you are looking to lose weight or gain muscle. Eating healthy can be a lifestyle, and this comes with countless benefits including higher energy levels and an overall improved mood.

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As opposed to the contrary belief, healthy eating does not mean depriving yourself of consuming anything. Healthy eating must involve a well-balanced diet that includes carbohydrates, protein, fat, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Eliminating any of these from your diet will do your body more harm than good because each category offers your body different benefits. Proteins provide the body with the energy needed to function. It is especially important in supporting mood regulation and sharpening cognitive function. You do not need animal products to consume protein, there are plenty of plant-based options too.

Fat is also essential, and while bad fats can increase your risk of diseases such as bad cholesterol and blocking arteries, good fat, such as omega-3, is crucial to physical and emotional health. It helps improve your overall well-being and protects vital organs such as kidneys. Fiber, which is found in grains, fruits, and vegetables, assists in staying healthy too. By helping lower the risk of heart disease and diabetes, it also improves your skin health and is extremely beneficial if you are looking to lose weight. Carbohydrates are the body’s main source of energy but you should ensure that you eat unrefined and complex carbs instead of sugars