You’ve probably heard the saying, “You are what you eat.” And there’s more truth to that statement than you might think.
The food you consume doesn’t just satisfy your hunger; it fuels your body, supports your immune system, and impacts your overall well-being.
Health truly starts on the inside, and one of the best ways to ensure you’re nourishing your body properly is by tracking your nutritional intake. This helps you get a big-picture look at your health and helps you understand it.
Why track your nutritional intake?
Tracking what you eat isn’t just for those trying to lose weight—it’s a valuable tool for anyone looking to optimize their health. Here’s why.
Awareness: You might think you’re eating a balanced diet, but tracking your meals can reveal hidden gaps in your nutrition. Are you getting enough protein? Are you meeting your daily intake of essential vitamins and minerals? Food tracking provides a clear picture of your diet.
Personalized nutrition: Each body is unique, and so are its nutritional needs. By monitoring what you eat, you can tailor your diet to better meet your personal health goals, whether it’s boosting energy, improving skin health, or supporting muscle recovery. Unsure where to start? Book a call with a Puritan’s Pride Nutrition Coach. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your wellness routine.
Improved health outcomes: Consistent tracking can lead to better long-term health. When you’re mindful of your nutritional intake, you’re more likely to make healthier choices, which can reduce the risk of health issues in the future.
How to track your food intake
Tracking your nutritional intake doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some simple steps to get started:
Choose a tracking method: There are various ways to track your food intake, from traditional pen and paper to modern apps that calculate your nutrient intake for you. Apps like MyFitnessPal or Cronometer are popular choices because they offer extensive food databases and easy tracking features.
Record as much as you can: Be honest and thorough in recording what you eat. Include everything from main meals to snacks and even beverages. The more accurate your tracking, the better insights you’ll gain. However, there’s no need to obsess! If you miss a meal or even a day or so, it’s okay. Even tracking your intake a few days a week is helpful.
Focus on nutrients: While tracking calories can be helpful, it’s equally important to pay attention to the nutrients you’re consuming. Look at your intake of macronutrients (proteins, fats, and carbs) and micronutrients like vitamins and minerals. This will help you find potential gaps in your diet.
Review and adjust: Regularly review your food log to identify any nutritional gaps or areas for improvement. Are you consistently low on protein? Magnesium? Could you benefit from more Vitamin C? Use this information to adjust your diet and supplement routine.
The role of supplements in a balanced diet
Even with careful tracking, it can be challenging to get all the nutrients your body needs from food alone. That’s where supplements come in. They can help fill the gaps in your diet and ensure you’re meeting your nutritional goals.
Vitamin C: Vitamin C is essential to many functions in the body and is one of the leading vitamins for immune support and helps fight free radicals.* Vitamin C also helps support both healthy gums and circulatory health.* If your diet lacks fruits and vegetables rich in Vitamin C, like oranges, broccoli, or bell peppers, a Vitamin C supplement can help you reach the recommended daily intake.
Vitamin D: Often referred to as the “sunshine vitamin,” Vitamin D is essential for bone health and immune function.* During the colder months, when sun exposure is limited, supplementing with Vitamin D can help maintain optimal levels and support overall well-being.*
Multivitamins: By providing the essential vitamins and minerals you need in a single tablet, a multivitamin is complementary to your diet to help ensure you are getting the recommended amounts.
The journey to better health starts with what you put into your body. By tracking your nutritional intake and supplementing wisely, you can take control of your health from the inside out.
Looking for information tailored to your health needs?
Consider booking an appointment with a Puritan’s Pride Nutrition Coach who can guide you based on your unique needs. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your wellness routine.
And if you’re unsure about which supplements are right for you, try our Personalized Supplements Quiz to find the best options tailored to your lifestyle and goals.
* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
