The Impact of Nutrition on Health and the Need for Food Safety
The importance of good nutrition for health and well-being is emphasized in an article discussing essential nutrients for growth, development, and body functioning. A balanced diet, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, is mentioned as a means to prevent chronic diseases and promote mental and emotional health. This healthy eating is particularly critical during childhood, pregnancy, and old age, and it also positively contributes to the environment by encouraging sustainable food production practices.
The Detrimental Effects of Certain Food Types
However, the consumption of certain products can be detrimental to health in the short and long term. The article highlights three types of potentially harmful foods: soda and sugary drinks, fish with high levels of mercury, and refined sugar. Soda and sugary drinks are linked to diseases such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and tooth decay. Mercury in some fish can affect cognitive function and neurological development, posing a particular risk for pregnant women and children. Refined sugar is linked to obesity, heart diseases, and other health problems. It is suggested to limit these products and opt for healthier alternatives.
Food Poisoning and Its Prevention
Food poisoning is an illness that occurs when one consumes food or water contaminated with bacteria, viruses, parasites, or other toxic substances. Older people are at higher risk of food poisoning because their immune system may be weaker, and their ability to fight infections may decrease over the years. During the warmer months, the risk of consuming spoiled food increases as high temperatures favor the growth of bacteria in food. Food poisoning symptoms can range from mild to severe and can affect different body systems. The onset of food poisoning can be prevented by following everyday guidelines such as properly storing, cooking, cleaning, and handling food.
The Need for Food Safety
Food safety is an increasingly important issue, with the need to reinforce food safety management to ensure the quality and safety of food. According to the Government of Chile, food safety refers to all risks that can make food harmful to consumer health. The WHO estimates that around 600 million people fall sick after consuming contaminated food each year. Sodexo shares principles for organizations to combat the issue, such as forming a food safety culture, implementing and monitoring a Food Safety Management System, and creating a work environment that promotes food safety.
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