In terms of health, we usually think about the big picture. We strive to lose weight, or eat foods that are healthy for our hearts, or participate in cardiovascular exercise to build stronger lungs. But we often forget that there is a lot going on in the body on a smaller scale.

If you think of the human body as a series of building blocks, cells are down on the ground floor. Cells make up tissues like muscles, organs, and skin, so good cell health is the foundation for good tissue health. This means choosing healthy food for cells sets the stage for overall wellness. WebMD reports that food does more than just provide energy and nutrients. Some foods go so far as to support cell health and minimize cell damage from free radicals.

Healthy Food For Cells

Eating a variety of different healthy food for cells is key. Good cell health is just like good overall health. It usually just comes down to the right optimum nutrition:

• Getting enough protein is a huge factor in keeping cells healthy and working efficiently. Protein repairs damaged cells and helps cell growth, so a protein deficiency can manifest in hair, nails, blood, and organ problems. Animal products like poultry, beef, fish, eggs, and milk are great sources of protein, while vegetarians can get their daily needs from seeds, beans, and nuts.
• One nutrient that helps build healthy red blood cells is iron. An iron deficiency is known as anemia, which manifests in weakness and fatigue. Iron rich foods to add to your diet are whole grains, spinach, beans, beef, poultry, dried fruit, and tomato juice.
• Many nutrients that help cell growth can be found in both animal and vegetable sources, but that isn’t the case with important red blood cell-boosting nutrient vitamin B-12. This vitamin is only found in animal products, but is very important for health. Vegetarians should consider taking a B-12 supplement.
• Antioxidants are well known for their role in protecting cell health by fighting against cell-damaging free radicals. This means antioxidants can protect against heart disease and cancer. Fruits, vegetables, dark chocolate, fish, whole grains, and red wine are all good sources.

By incorporating healthy food for cells into your diet, you are building a strong body at the most basic level. Antioxidants, vitamin B-12, iron, and protein will keep your cells healthy and functioning for optimum health.

Source:

• “How Antioxidants Work”, WebMD
• “Healthy diet: End the guesswork with these nutrition guidelines”, Mayo Clinic

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