The Importance of Balanced Nutrition for Women's Health
Basic food groups
Importance of Iron in Nutrition
The body uses iron to make hemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells that carries oxygen to all parts of the body. Women are more susceptible to anemia due to menstruation or childbirth, so it is important to eat foods rich in iron
such as:
- Eggs
- Dairy products
- Fish, meat and poultry
- Green leafy vegetables
- Iron-fortified foods
The absorption of iron in the body also improves when taken with vitamin C, such as oranges, tangerines, strawberries, or added to spinach salad.
Calcium and bone health
Calcium plays an essential role in building strong bones and preventing osteoporosis, a common problem among women. Calcium can be obtained from:
- Dairy products
- Leafy green vegetables such as cabbage, zucchini and green beans
- Garlic
- Fortified cereal
vitamin D
helps better absorption of calcium, and can be obtained through:
- Exposure to sunlight for half an hour daily
- Eating shrimp, cod, eggs
- Milk fortified with vitamin D
Folic acid and women's health
Folic acid (vitamin B9) is essential for making new cells, and is especially important for women of childbearing age, as it contributes to preventing birth defects in fetuses, especially in the brain and spine.
Sources rich in folic acid include:
- Citrus fruits
- Leafy green vegetables
- Dried beans and peas
- Cereals fortified with folic acid
Healthy lifestyle
To achieve optimal health, it is recommended to follow a diet rich in plant materials, and to limit the consumption of caffeine and alcohol. This approach helps promote general health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Conclusion