Why good nutrition is important

Eating healthy and well-balanced meals is an important part of maintaining the best health possible, but some of the day-to-day complications of living with a physical disability can make managing this part of a healthy lifestyle more difficult.

Shine Member, Dina has authored a Nutrition guide to help others with mobility considerations and cognitive difficulties make the most of a healthy diet. Below are some helpful insights inspired by Dina’s writing, and you can find her tips here.

 

What is nutrition and why is it important?

Nutrition is the way different nutrients help our bodies function and heal. Nutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins and minerals play vital roles in our bodies’ processes, from fighting infection to new cell growth.

The right food can help our emotional wellbeing, cognitive function and overall health. Dina says:

"Nutrition is particularly important for people with disabilities. Having a disability can be exhausting, so when energy is limited, it is even more important to prioritise our nourishment to help maintain our energy levels."

What makes a balanced diet?

Dina says, "Healthy eating is about having a variety of different foods and nutrients in your day. It is not about ‘dieting’ or restricting yourself, it’s about what you put in rather than what you leave out."

The food groups that form the basis of a balanced diet are:

Fruit and vegetables – Current UK guidelines recommends we each have at least five portions of different fruit and veg per day. Fruits and Veg should account for at least one-third of what we eat.

Protein – Protein is a crucial building block for all the processes our body needs to complete to keep us healthy. Protein-rich foods include beans, dairy, eggs, fish, lean red meats, lentils, nuts, poultry and seeds, tofu and tempeh.

Complex carbohydrates – Carbohydrates provide us with energy, providing glucose for brain function. Complex carbohydrates tend to be a healthier choice than refined carbohydrates. Complex carbohydrates include brown rice, quinoa, oats, fruit and vegetables, wholegrain bread and pasta, sweet potato, and root vegetables.

Dairy – Dairy products (and fortified plant-based alternatives) are an important source of calcium and are often a good source of protein. Lactose-free alternatives are an option for those who are lactose intolerant. Note; some dairy products are high in saturated fat and should be eaten in moderation.

Essential fats – Too much saturated fat and trans-fat in the diet can affect heart health and result in weight gain but unsaturated fats are an essential part of a healthy balanced diet. Some sources of unsaturated fats include avocado, eggs, nuts, seeds, olive oil and oily fish.

Water – Staying hydrated is an important part of keeping healthy.  For people with reduced mobility who may be more prone to skin issues or urinary tract problems, this is especially important.

The Eatwell Guide is a useful visual guide to creating a balanced plate. It shows how much of what we eat overall should come from each food group to achieve a healthy, balanced diet.

You can read more of Dina's insights and tips in Understanding Spina Bifida in Adulthood, which you can order on our website (there are print and digital versions).