International Medical Management, Aberdeen

The path to wellness begins with the food we eat<br> <br> <b>By Dr Louise Slaney, Medical Director, <br> International Medical Management, Bon Accord Square, Aberdeen</b><br> <br> When you look at most of your meal plates, do you see colour, variety, balance and nutrition? <br> <br> The path to wellness often begins with the food we eat and ensuring we consume nutritionally balanced foods is the key to good health.<br> <br> It’s vital to consider whether you are making informed choices that promote a healthy lifestyle. There are so many benefits of a balanced diet. Sound eating habits, developing consistency around that and undertaking regular physical activity can boost your overall immunity, protecting you from illness.<br> <br> Lowering cholesterol; decreasing the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and some cancers, maintaining a healthy weight, helping the digestive system function, keeping skin, teeth and eyes healthy, supporting muscles, strengthening bones and lifting your overall mood. With a list like this, why wouldn’t you take steps to a balanced life?<br> <br> Ensure you consume the seven major nutrient groups – good carbohydrates that are high in fibre, protein, fats, vitamins, minerals and water. Each of these food groups performs different functions to contribute to good body health. Eating whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats and less processed food is the way to help protect your future self.<br> <br> Why not challenge yourself to at least one of these:<br> <br> Commit to trying a new healthy recipe every week or add more fruit and vegetables to your diet.<br> Read and educate yourself – dive into articles or books that enhance your knowledge about nutrition and health.<br> Support local – visit farmers’ markets or local producers to get fresh, nutritious ingredients.<br> Try a cooking class and learn some new healthy recipes.<br> Share your recipes and tips on social media. Your posts could help inspire others!<br> <br> IMM provides a unique range of end-to-end occupational health, travel health, onshore and offshore medical services, including wellness medicals. For more information, go to: www.intmedical.com