The word “food” can mean many different things in our culture and language. In most cases the word refers to a human consumption of food, which can consist of both plant foods like plants and animals, and man-made or cultivated foods like cereals, sugar cane, pasta, breads and other processed foods. In the United States alone, more than one billion pounds of food are consumed every year. The food industry, which consists of farmers, food manufacturers, retailers and suppliers, makes up the largest portion of the US economy, employing millions of people.

Plants produce food through photosynthesis, through nutrients absorbed into the soil to make food for the plants, through digestion of food particles and through living matter in food such as starch. When food is consumed, the nutrients are transferred from food to body tissue in the form of food chemicals or nutrients, which is then carried out of the body in the waste created by the kidneys, liver, pancreas and other organs. These food chemicals or nutrients are then released from the food, usually through the skin, leaving behind the solid food, in which we generally refer to as food.

The three most important nutrients that are not only found in whole foods, but are also found in many fruits and vegetables, are: Vitamin E, beta carotene (vitamin A) and potassium. Vitamin E protects the skin from damage from free radicals, which is why it is found in sunscreen and hair sprays. Beta carotene is a powerful antioxidant, which means it neutralizes free radicals in the body to prevent cancer, age spots and other age related skin conditions. Potassium is the most abundant mineral in the human body and helps to maintain the body’s blood pressure and fluid levels. It has been shown to protect against high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney stones, osteoporosis, stroke, diabetes, constipation, obesity and even some forms of cancer. All of these benefits make fruits and vegetables a must if you want to be healthy.

Not only do fruits and vegetables provide us with these three nutrients, they are also very good for us in other ways. Studies have shown that eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables prevents certain types of cancer, including colon, breast and rectal cancer. Vitamin E protects the lining of the colon against ulcers and other problems, which can be a major problem for those suffering with a chronic illness like ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease. Beta carotene strengthens the immune system and boosts the body’s ability to fight off infection. Potassium is important for regulating your salt levels and keeps you hydrated, so it makes sense to eat enough of this nutrient. By avoiding fat and greasy foods such as those found in fast food, junk food and processed food products, you will be able to maintain your weight and avoid health complications.

You might think that fruits and vegetables are all about being thin and avoiding fat and grease, but there are much more benefits associated with consuming these foods. Fruits and vegetables contain antioxidants, which help prevent free radicals from damaging your body, which may cause atherosclerosis, clogged arteries, cancer and other serious ailments. Vitamins such as A, C and E protect the body from toxins and protect cells against viruses and bacteria. Fat helps to burn calories and provide energy, but it is often turned into fat when the food is not properly digested.

The above reasons show why eating more fruits and vegetables and less sugary foods is an important part of your daily nutrition. It will also help to improve your health and prevent diseases. If you are suffering from one of the following conditions, or know someone who may be, talk to them about the positive effects of a well-balanced diet.