What is healthy eating?

What is good nutrition?

Diet is healthy when it promotes good health and reduces the risk of related chronic diseases. Epidemiological research has shown a close relationship between diet and the risk of developing these chronic diseases characterised by high morbidity and mortality, which is why it is necessary to establish reference standards that serve as a guide to ensure an adequate nutritional status. The Mediterranean dietary pattern is a centuries-old tradition that contributes to excellent nutritional status, provides a pleasurable sensation and is part of the world's culture. Some of the strongest and most recent studies suggesting this close relationship between unhealthy lifestyle and disease risk are reviewed.

Food, in all its cultural variations and in a broad sense, defines people's health, growth and development. The daily diet of each individual must contain a sufficient amount of the different macro- and micronutrients to cover most physiological needs. These are influenced by many factors, such as gender, age, physiological state (pregnancy, lactation and growth), body composition, physical activity and the specific characteristics of each individual.