What is right Diet
There is a boom these days about keto diet, low carb diet, carnivorous diet, Mediterranean diet etc proponent of each claiming it to be the best dietary option. That is not the case in reality. No double all these different diet plans have their shining stars but there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of what constitutes the perfect diet. So we have to first admit that there is no perfect diet. Here I would like to propose a better dietary concept which many people understand but perhaps do not consider its significance in health strategies. It is the concept of RIGHT DIET. Right diet is not based on any fixed formula. It is the right diet which bofy needs for optimum function considering age, weather, activity environment and existing disease condition. Right diet is a special concept. People talk about different specific diets to be the best option. In fact right diet is the best option.
Right diet is the best possible diet for an organism at a given stage of its life cycle, within a particular environment during a specific life style and physical activities and under particular states of health and disease.
For an Infant mother’s milk is the right diet.
As the health requirements and situation warrants the package of right diet has to be constantly adjusted. Right diet is therefore not a fixed but it is rather a dynamic diet plan which keeps considering all the parameters involved in selection and keeps adjusting its recipe, timings and quantity along with appropriate adjustment of life style.
Influencers of Right diet Selection
Age and developmental stage
As mentioned above mother’s milk is the right diet for a new born for at least several months onwards. No diet whatsoever can be right diet to meet its needs better than mother’s milk.
Environmental Conditions
One needs plenty of fluids and electrolytes in warm weather.
State of Health
Different states of health and disease demand specific additions or subtractions to the right diet recipe. In certain deficiency disorders like Iodine deficiency one needs supplementary iodine. In certain vitamin deficiency disorders vitamin supplements may be needed like we need vitamin C in scurvy. Then there are situation where NO DIET is the RIGHT DIET for a given period of time. Humans know the power of FASTING since ages and that is prevalent in most societies in some form. Fasting is evenpracticed by animals. One must have seen pets refusing to take food when they are sick. Yes many a times they are fasting in order to revoke their hidden healing powers to fight the disease.
Body Sensors
And last but not the least one needs training in developing an ability to listen to his body sensors. Human body is a highly advanced machine in which most functions responsible for keeping that body up and running have been automated. How often one’s heart must beat during exertion or how frequently and deeply one must breath under any situation is not under conscious control. Similarly how much water and electrolytes have to be retained by the kidneys and how much they must excrete is an automated process. Toxins are neutralized in liver automatically and body launches automated responses to meet the challenges of foreign body invasion or healing of any body injury. A man does not need to know or interfere with this automated process. But there are times when these automated processed get overwhelmed by the challenges they get exposed to. These are the time when body sensors start beeping. For example during several infections a person gets fever. Fever is a beeper. There are numerous such beepers in human body. I will try to discuss many such beepers in detail in a future article.
Variables to be adjusted in Right diet
Balanced Macronutrients: A balanced diet typically includes a combination of carbohydrates, protein, and fats. Carbohydrates provide energy, protein supports muscle growth and repair, and fats are important for various bodily functions. The proportions of these macronutrients can vary based on factors such as your activity level and goals.
Whole Foods: Prioritize whole, minimally processed foods. These include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, nuts, seeds, and healthy fats. These foods are rich in essential nutrients and are generally better for overall health compared to heavily processed foods.
Variety
Eating a wide variety of foods ensures that you’re getting a diverse range of nutrients. Different foods provide different vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that contribute to overall health.
Portion Control
Pay attention to portion sizes to avoid overeating. Even healthy foods can contribute to weight gain if consumed in excessive amounts.
Moderation
Enjoy treats and less nutritious foods in moderation. It’s okay to have occasional indulgences, but they should not make up a significant portion of your diet.
Hydration
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay properly hydrated.
Mindful Eating
Pay attention to your hunger and fullness cues. Eat slowly and savor your food to help prevent overeating.
Personalization
Consider your individual needs. Factors such as age, gender, activity level, metabolism, and any medical conditions can influence your dietary requirements.
Long-Term Sustainability
Focus on adopting a dietary pattern that you can sustain over the long term. Diets that are too restrictive or unbalanced are often difficult to maintain and can lead to feelings of deprivation.
Consult a Professional: If you have specific health goals or medical conditions, consider working with a registered dietitian or healthcare professional who can provide personalized guidance.