You Are What You Eat! And, of course, what you don’t eat too.

“You Are What You Eat” – How What You Eat and Don’t Eat Affects Your Health

“You are what you eat” is an old saying that many people have heard throughout their lives, often from childhood. This simple phrase actually has very deep roots. But there’s another side to it: it’s not just what you eat that affects you, but also what you don’t eat. Recent research shows that especially when food quality declines, our health depends not only on what is on our plates but also on what is missing.

Redefining the Concept of “Essential Nutrients”

When it comes to human nutrition, the term “essential nutrients” refers to the nutrients the body needs to function properly. The human body has evolved to produce many of the nutrients it requires on its own. For example, our skin can synthesize vitamin D when exposed to sunlight.

On the other hand, there are many nutrients necessary for optimal body function that the body cannot produce by itself. These are called “essential nutrients” and include vitamin C, vitamin B12, essential fatty acids, as well as minerals such as magnesium and zinc.

When it comes to mental development, the concept of “essential nutrients” becomes even more important because the brain requires many nutrients to function properly. Eating habits play a crucial role in the healthy mental development of young people.

Well-Nourished Minds

The brain is the organ with the highest energy demand in the body. Surprisingly, this organ, weighing about 1.2 kilograms, consumes roughly 25% of the total energy needed for metabolic activities.

During adolescence, the brain undergoes rapid and significant changes, which increases its nutrient requirements. Unfortunately, adolescence is often a period when individuals develop poor eating habits. Additionally, children in mid-adolescence are typically exposed to social and lifestyle changes that can negatively affect their emotions, thoughts, and overall behavior. Human health is in a constant state of flux, influenced by genetic, environmental, and social factors.

Alongside these factors, nutrition emerges as a key component influencing adolescents’ mental development. Nutrition is one of the most important determinants of brain development and function—and also one of the easiest factors to optimize.

Modern Nutrition Practices

In reality, making good choices for our children involves encouraging the consumption of nutrient-dense foods. This includes teaching children about the long-term benefits of investing in nutrition. Considering the need for dietary supplements also falls within this scope.

Due to a range of factors—from climate change to non-regenerative farming practices—the nutrient content of many natural foods is declining. Common food preparation methods can also lead to significant losses in vitamins and minerals. For example, boiling vitamin-rich foods can destroy nearly 100% of their vitamins.

Supplements can help bridge the growing gap between what foods provide and what the body needs. They can also help meet the high nutritional demands of growing bodies and developing brains in children and adolescents. Argivit, for example, is an ideal supplement to meet the vitamin and mineral needs of growing children and teenagers. If you think your child might need supplementation, consult your doctor.

A well-nourished brain can lay the foundation for lifelong well-being. This is why I strongly believe it’s important to remember the significance of both what we eat and what we don’t.

The Role of B Vitamins in Our Health

All metabolic pathways in the human body require B vitamins to some extent. B vitamins contribute to normal energy metabolism, the formation of red blood cells, and the proper functioning of the nervous system. They also support normal immune system function. Supplements like Argivit, which contain B vitamins, can help support immune health.

Common Signs of Low Magnesium

Accurately assessing a person’s magnesium status can sometimes be challenging. Most of the body’s magnesium is stored inside cells, so blood tests may not fully reflect tissue stores. Due to the widespread occurrence of magnesium deficiency, its many benefits, and its safe use at appropriate doses, magnesium supplementation is recommended. Argivit, as a magnesium-containing supplement, can help meet the body’s magnesium needs.

How Zinc Supports the Absorption of Other Essential Nutrients?

Zinc contributes to normal acid-base metabolism. These processes are necessary for the proper breakdown and absorption of food and nutrients in the digestive system. Supplements like Argivit, which contain zinc, can help support these processes.

How Can I Tell if My Child Has Nutritional Deficiencies?

Nutritional deficiencies often present with signs that can be easily misinterpreted, overlooked, or confused with other issues. It’s important to recognize that everyone’s nutritional requirements are unique. For both children and adolescents, nutritional deficiencies can be identified through professional medical evaluation. Argivit can be used to complement dietary deficiencies and provide the essential nutrients needed for healthy development.

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References

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3. Colino S. Fruits and vegetables are less nutritious than they used to be. National Geographic. https://www.nationalgeographic.co.uk/environment-and-conservation/2022/05/fruits-and-vegetables-are-less-nutritious-than-they-used-to-be. 3 Mayıs 2022'de yayımlanmıştır.

4. Lee S, Choi Y, Jeong HS, Lee J, Sung J. Effect of different cooking methods on the content of vitamins and true retention in selected vegetables. Food Sci Biotechnol. 2017; 27(2): 333-342.

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