A knowledge of nutrition is a good step in the direction to living healthier. You can get started on the road to health and fitness by learning about harmful foods and additives and the nutritious choices that you can make to replace them in your diet. This article will help you get started.

Be wary of any food in a can, especially meats, which can significantly add to your sodium intake. If you give your body too much sodium, it can lead to health problems such as high blood pressure. Try sticking with fresh meats. Those that are processed usually contain high sodium content.

Use one of the online diet trackers to keep track of meals. If you notice that a few pounds have crept on lately, take notice of what you are eating. Even if you do not eat large quantities of food, meals with high carbohydrate or fat content can combine with a more sedentary lifestyle to add inches to your waistline. Just being mindful about what you eat leads you to healthier portions.

Eggs can help add protein to your diet easily. Eat egg whites and toss the yolks if you need to watch your cholesterol and fat. The egg whites have many nutrients without fat or cholesterol.

Replace refined white flour products with whole grain products. Whole grain products, particularly the wheat variety, have higher fiber and protein content than refined grains. Not only do whole grain foods make you feel more full, but they lower your cholesterol as well. Check the nutrient label to see if any of the first ingredients listed is “whole”.

To boost your daily nutrition, getting the most of the vitamins and minerals that are packed into fruits and vegetables, invest in a juicer. Mixing fruits and vegetables together can make some tasty creations. Spice things up by mixing together things like ginger and bananas or grapes. You can add spicy peppers to a juice blend for a great kick.

Eat a diet with the right amounts of carbs, proteins, and fats for better nutrition. One generally accepted ratio for good nutrition is approximately 50% carbohydrate, 20% fat and 30% protein. Avoid sugary carbs whenever possible.

Fresh, raw fruit is always the preferable option to fruit juice. Fresh fruit is sweetened with natural sugars, while fruit juice has artificial sweeteners. Believe it or not, some fruit juices contain more sugars than a can of soda. The vitamins and nutrients in fruit also prevent certain medical condition, such as strokes and heart disease.

Careful reading of food labels is essential. Sometimes a product labeled “reduced-fat” might still have high sugar or salt content, and also include other unhealthy ingredients. When you are trying to lose weight you should avoid highly processed foods. Labels should always list ingredients in terms you can understand. Avoid foods that carry labels with a lot of ingredients that are unfamiliar to you.

Staying up-to-date with the latest nutritional information is the best way to keep your body healthy and strong for years to come. Following the tips in this article is just the first step in many of learning how to eat for better health. Find more resources, and keep discovering new facts. Keep your brain and your body well fed with good fuel.