The Influence Of Diet On Non-Communicable Diseases

Food and diet play a pivotal role in preventing NCDs. Foods high in nutrients like fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants are particularly beneficial. This includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, nuts, seeds, and legumes. Additionally, limiting the intake of processed foods high in sodium, unhealthy fats, and added sugars can also contribute to the prevention of NCDs. 

Functional foods are foods that have potentially positive effects on health beyond basic nutrition. They can play a crucial part in an NCD diet. Examples of functional foods and nutraceuticals in metabolic disease and NCD prevention and management include oats (rich in beta-glucan), fatty fish (rich in omega-3 fatty acids), berries (rich in antioxidants), and fermented products like yogurt (rich in probiotics). These foods not only provide essential nutrients but also offer additional health benefits - from reducing inflammation to improving gut health. 

Nutrition plays an integral role in managing NCDs such as diabetes, heart disease, obesity and certain types of cancer. A well-balanced NCD diet can help to manage these conditions by maintaining healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels, stabilizing blood sugar levels, supporting weight management and boosting overall immunity. Eating nutritious food is, therefore, vital not only for prevention but also for the management of NCDs. 

Nutrition transition refers to the shift in dietary patterns and energy expenditure that coincides with economic, demographic, and epidemiological changes. It often leads to a diet high in processed foods, unhealthy fats, sugars, and sodium – all contributing factors to NCDs. By making mindful choices about food and diet, such as eating nutritious food and incorporating functional foods into our daily routine, we can counteract some effects of nutrition transition and therefore help prevent and manage NCDs effectively.