Adult Nutrition - Finding a Balance in What You Eat
 You would think that being an adult would be easy as far as health goes. You survived your teens and 20s, and you are still not old enough to begin worrying about the risks associated with senior age. Outside of things that cannot be foreseen or prevented, adult nutrition and health should be a no-brainer. However, studies have shown that many adults lack adequate nutrition, either by what they are eating now or what they ate when they were younger.
People are taking a much more serious look at their health than they have in recent years, and adult nutrition is coming more clearly into focus. If you are trying to regain your health, hitting the gym just isn't enough. You must make up for nutritional and health mistakes you made in your youth while preparing for a healthy and long future.
On a daily basis, adult nutrition should consist of the following:
- 4 servings (2 cups) of fresh, dried, canned, or frozen fruits
- 5 servings (2.5 cups) of vegetables
- 6 servings (6 oz. or equivalent) of whole grains
- 5.5 oz (or equivalent) of meats, beans, and nuts/seeds
- 3 cups (or equivalent) of milk or dairy products
- 24 grams (6 tsp) of fats and oils
- Limited sugars, fats, and other foods high in calories and empty starches
These recommendations are the average daily nutritional guidelines that are released each year for the average adult on a 2,000 calorie diet. However, it is important to understand that people at different ages (especially young children, teenagers, and seniors) and those with special dietary needs or some health conditions may need to get more or less of these food groups.
An experienced nutritionist or dietitian, as well as your primary care provider, will be able to help you determine whether or not you are getting adequate adult nutrition. By eating healthy and maintaining a healthy weight, you can live a longer, happier, and healthier life.
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