Our body is indeed a magnificent creation. It is an autonomous powerhouse capable of processing energy, eliminating waste and toxins, regulating temperature, and even protecting itself from potential infections. However, it is also a fact that when the body is fed terrible food, the grand design that it once was will eventually break down.
According to Stephen Kopecky, M.D., Cardiologist at the Mayo Clinic, our bodies are not naturally designed to consume terrible food regularly. He likened it to a car's engine running on diesel. You can't and won't put gasoline in a diesel tank because it will break down. This goes the same for our bodies, and there are tell-tale signs for it that we need to watch out for.
1. Wounds that take longer to heal
If ever you have noticed that small cuts or wounds take a longer time to heal than usual, it is time that you need to reassess your eating habits. Your body has the ability to heal itself, but without adequate nutrients, it will have a difficult time achieving this goal. A study shown in PubMed indicated that ICU patients with severe wounds had a challenging recovery phase because of insufficient energy, protein, and micronutrients.
2. Thinning and brittle hair
Another symptom that you are consuming too much terrible or unhealthy food is thinning and brittle hair. The hair needs adequate nutrients to grow healthy. According to the Dermatology Practical & Conceptual Journal, insufficient amounts of iron, zinc, B vitamins such as Niacin, other nutrients such as vitamins D, A, E, and folic acid can adversely affect your body's ability to grow healthy hair.
3. Declining oral health
The condition of your mouth or your oral health can also show signs of poor diet. According to Kristin Kirkpatrick, MS, RD, LD, of the Cleveland Clinic, a poor diet can manifest with inflamed and often bleeding cavities and gums.
She added that swollen or bleeding gums are often associated with getting too little vitamin C in your diet. In addition, plaque and other deposits are often the results of consuming too many sugary foods that you might want to avoid.
4. Premature skin aging
Our skin is the largest organ of our body. Eating unhealthy or terrible food can affect its appearance. A balanced nutritional diet, including anti-oxidative rich food, can prevent premature aging of your skin. It is best to add foods that are rich with antioxidants such as carotenoids, tocopherols, flavonoids, essential omega-3-fatty acids, proteins, and vitamins (A, C, D, and E) into your daily diet.
5. Frequent digestive issues
Since food is the main factor for these signs, it is evident that one crucial thing you should watch out for is having digestive issues. If you notice that you tend to have diarrhea or constipation frequently, this is a sign that your diet does not consist of the nutrients you need.
Insufficient fiber in the body will trigger these digestive issues, which can be easily prevented with a daily recommended dose of 25 grams per day for women and 38 grams per day for men.
