Why Nutrition is Important – Burden Of Disease

Every year in Australia, millions of years of healthy life are lost. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) studies the impact of living with illness and reasons behind premature deaths in Australia. This loss of healthy life is called the ‘burden of disease’. The data shows some alarming statistics.

In addition, AIHW also generates reports on topics and health behaviours that may impact an individuals health – topics that include overweight and obesity, food and nutrition, alcohol and physical activity.

All of this data presents a “not so good” picture about our lifestyle and further demonstrates the importance of good nutrition in our daily lives. The food and beverages we eat and drink (our diet) play a critical role in our overall health and wellbeing. Food provides energy, nutrients and other components that, if provided in insufficient or excess amounts can result in ill health. The conditions often affected by our diet include:

The foods you eat directly impact digestive health. A diet rich in fiber from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes promotes regular bowel movements, prevents constipation, and supports a healthy digestive system. Additionally, consuming probiotic-rich foods can promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and improve gut health. Learn more about the importance of gut health.

Food provides the body with essential nutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals. These nutrients play critical roles in various bodily functions, including energy production, metabolism, immune function, and tissue repair.

Food serves as fuel for the body and brain. Eating regular, balanced meals helps maintain stable blood sugar levels and sustained energy throughout the day. Additionally, certain nutrients have been linked to improved mood and cognitive function, promoting mental well-being.

AIHW reported that between 2000 and 2021, the number of people living with diabetes in Australia increased almost 2.8-fold, from 460,000 to 1.3 million.

Nutrition plays a crucial role in the development, management, and prevention of type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is a metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance and impaired insulin secretion, resulting in elevated blood sugar levels.

The types and amounts of food you consume directly influence your weight. Eating a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-dense foods can help you maintain a healthy weight or achieve weight loss goals.

Chronic inflammation is a common underlying factor in many diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. A nutritious diet can significantly reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases. Dysbiosis can disrupt this delicate balance, contributing to chronic inflammation and increasing the risk of developing chronic diseases, underscoring the importance of gut health in disease prevention and management.

Nutrition profoundly influences heart disease risk. Food we consume can have a large impact on reducing blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and inflammation. Conversely, the wrong foods can increase the risk of heart disease. Making informed dietary choices is essential for preventing and managing heart disease, promoting cardiovascular health, and enhancing overall well-being.

By focusing on individualized nutrition and holistic health, the Metabolic Balance program can be a powerful tool for improving your overall health and well-being. Here at WNutrition, we have seen how Metabolic Balance can achieve some amazing results with our clients:

• Balanced Blood Sugar Levels: By focusing on whole foods and balanced meals, the program helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and related metabolic disorders.
• Weight Management: The program promotes sustainable weight loss by encouraging healthy eating habits and balanced meals, which can lead to improved body composition and reduced risk of obesity-related conditions.
• Improved Digestion: The program emphasizes the importance of eating natural, unprocessed foods and proper meal timing, which can enhance digestion and nutrient absorption.
• Increased Energy Levels: By providing your body with the right nutrients in the right proportions, the program can help boost your energy levels, reduce fatigue, and improve overall vitality.
• Reduced Inflammation: The focus on whole, anti-inflammatory foods can help reduce chronic inflammation, which is linked to various health conditions, including heart disease, arthritis, and certain cancers.
• Enhanced Mental Clarity and Mood: Proper nutrition has a direct impact on brain health. The Metabolic Balance program can help improve cognitive function, mood stability, and overall mental well-being.
• Better Hormonal Balance: The program aims to balance your metabolism, which can positively affect hormonal regulation and reduce symptoms related to hormonal imbalances such as PMS, menopause, and thyroid disorders.
• Long-term Health Benefits: By adopting the healthy eating principles and lifestyle changes promoted by the Metabolic Balance program, you can enjoy long-term health benefits and a reduced risk of chronic diseases.

 Contact us today to see how we can help you on your wellness journey!