You are what you eat: How many times have we not heard this phrase repeated? ad infinitum in the media, or among our acquaintances? We want to delve deeper into this topic: how does what we eat impact our daily lives? Can it make a long-term difference to our health? Stay and learn more about this topic.

Taking the step towards truly healthy eating requires more than just courage: it is about changing our habits in a comprehensive way, to the extent that we are aware of what we consume on a daily basis. According to the World Health OrganizationA balanced diet not only helps us avoid malnutrition, but can also be decisive in preventing diseases such as cancer, hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular accidents, among others.

In addition to practicing constant physical activity every day, the best way to protect our body is by eating a balanced diet, taking into account the five sources of nutrients it needs to stay healthy: carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins and minerals, and water. Doing so consciously, and above all critically, is the best ally when it comes to taking care of our nutrition. Fortunately, the notion of acquiring healthier habits is increasingly accepted within our society: according to a study conducted by the IPSOS consultancy, 40% of the population in Latin America acquired healthier habits during confinement.

Now, let's put an important issue on the table: maintaining a balanced diet is not only about the portions we eat, but also about the quality of the products we include in our daily diet. Aside from living by counting calories (which the media has led us to believe was vital for many years), the important thing is to know which foods provide a truly significant nutrient content, and which have a positive impact on your body. But where do you start from a healthy, non-restrictive approach that allows you to do it gradually? Here are some useful tips:

• Include vegetables in all your meals, preferably raw or boiled.
• Prefer boiled or roasted dishes instead of fried ones.
• Reduce salt consumption as much as possible, and avoid putting it on the family table.
• Craving something sweet? Replace products with added sugars with seasonal fruit and raw vegetables.
• Make sure your carbohydrates are high in fiber or whole grain: choose root vegetables over processed baked goods, and prioritize pastas and breads made with whole grain flour.
• Avoid ultra-processed foods, or try to consume them more sporadically.
• Limit your intake of high-calorie beverages, such as juices and soft drinks. In addition to being high in calories, they can be bad for your teeth.

  La Importance of good nutrition lies in giving our body the opportunity to strengthen its defenses and protect itself against diseases. Building the path towards a balanced diet is an essential decision to be better in the future. Remember that at Seguros SURA we give you support through our professionals, who can provide you with information about the health insurance that best suits your needs. In addition, we share with you our Healthy Eating Booklet, where you can learn more about how to take care of your body from a comprehensive perspective, to ensure you live in balance with yourself.