Diet Recommendations - Essay Example

Another vitamin that aids my immune system D. This functions to reduce inflammation in the body. Vitamin E is another vitamin that supports my immune system. It functions by protecting cells against free radicals. As my diet is deficient in both these categories, I could improve this requirement by adding salmon, Swiss cheese, and tomatos. In terms of minerals, one of the important minerals I consume for my immune system is selenium. Selenium functions by aiding proteins that help the thyroid function and protect the immune system.

Zinc, another mineral in my diet, aids my immune system by building T-lymphocyte cells that fighting invaders into the body. I can increase selenium by consuming more cashew nuts, as well as tuna. Finally, I can improve my zinc intake my consuming bran cereal and pine nuts. II. In examining my diet and other risk factors for cancer I recognize that there are a few elements that could be considered factors for concern. In terms of food intake one of the most important foods to avoid when possible are processed foods (Adams, 2007).

I recognize that in many aspects my diet includes processed foods that could be replaced with more natural alternatives in an effort to improve overall health and long-term risk for cancer. In addition to avoiding processed foods, I recognize that another food I consume in high amounts is refined sugars and grains; particularly, I consume these elements, respectively, in the use of artificial sweeteners for coffee, and white flower for baking. Rather than consuming refined sugars in large quantities I could incorporate natural sweetener into my diet, or even use honey in coffee drinks.

As far as activities, I recognize that extra time I spend directly in the sun can accumulate in skin cancer, and should remain aware of utilizing sun screen and staying out of the sun for prolonged periods. III. In examining my diet for hypertension and heart disease I recognize that there are a few elements that can potentially contribute to these factors. One of the primary foods that contribute to hypertension is salt. While my diet isn’t extremely high in salt, I recognize that there are days when my consumption goes over the recommended levels to avoid potential risks for hypertension.

In these regards, I can work toward limiting my salt intake to six grams per day. Another food that I consume that contributes to hypertension is caffeine in both tea and coffee. While I find it difficult to do without caffeine, I can make an effort to reduce my intake of caffeinated beverages. In terms of heart disease, I recognize that my consumption of eggs, which are high in cholesterol, can potentially contribute to my risk for heart disease. In all, my diet is healthy in terms of risk for heart disease, yet I recognize that I need to remain vigilant about not incorporating too many elements that could potentially contribute to heart risk.

I also recognize that maintaining an active lifestyle, with daily physical activity is important for avoiding heart disease and hypertension. IV. In terms of my diet and general activities I recognize that there are a number of aspects that may potentially contribute to my risks for diabetes. One of the main dietary concerns I have in regards to potential risk for diabetes is through my consumption of processed meat ("Foods that cause," 2009). In these regards,