A well-balanced diet is one of the keys to living a healthy and happy life, but many people have a hard time figuring out if what they put in their bodies is good for them. If you’re unsure about whether or not you need to change up your eating habits, then here are 10 signs that your diet is likely out of balance and needs to be re-thought:
1. You always feel tired
All of your energy comes from the food you consume, but low-quality food, while it might make you feel full, is not going to provide you with enough energy to get through the day. If you’re always lacking energy, then consider eating more fruits and veggies, especially apples.
2. You’ve gained a lot of weight
While weight gain has many potential causes, one of the main reasons usually involves eating too much or eating food that is high in fat but low in important nutrients. Rapid weight gain is a good indicator that you need to cut down the portions and stay away from too much fried and salty food.
3. You’ve lost a lot of weight
It is not only weight gain that you should be looking out for, but weight loss as well. Malnutrition should not be a problem in the developed world, but it can result from taking certain fad diets way too far. Losing weight, especially if it is too much too fast, doesn’t necessarily mean that you have gotten any healthier.
4. You’re always catching colds
The proper functioning of your immune system greatly depends on the quality of your diet. Your immune system needs the right vitamins and antioxidants in order to do its job. If you are not eating nutritious food, then your body will be very bad at fighting colds and other illnesses.
5. Your stomach is often upset
If your stomach is always feeling upset and queasy, then some food or some combination of foods that you regularly ingest is likely the culprit. Try keeping careful track of what you eat, and try cutting certain items out of your diet to see if you feel any better after doing so.
More: 10 Clean Eating Mistakes You Could Be Making
6. You have a hard time staying regular
Speaking of stomach problems, constipation is usually the result of a diet that is low in fiber. You’re also likely not getting enough water, so strive to drink the recommended 8-10 glasses of water a day. Incorporate more whole grains, fruits, and veggies into your diet, and things will probably start moving along.
7. You’ve been feeling moodier than usual
What you eat can have a direct effect on your mood. Mild depression may even sometimes be the result of you not getting enough essential fats and carbohydrates. If you have been feeling bluer than usual, then your diet could very well be part of the reason why.
8. Eating doesn’t seem to satisfy your hunger
If you never feel satisfied after your meals and often find yourself snacking too much between meals, then it may be the result of eating food that is lacking in essential nutrients. Getting enough leafy greens and whole grains is crucial for satisfying your hunger.
9. Your diet has very little variety
Human beings need to consume a variety of foods in order to get all of the right nutrients. We crave diversity in our meals because it helps to ensure that we get something from every food group. If your plate is usually lacking an entire section of the food pyramid, then you need to mix things up.
10. You experience a lot of headaches
Just like stomach problems, headaches may be the result of poor eating habits. You should keep a food journal to pinpoint what may be causing your headaches, and cut out anything that may be a potential trigger, replacing it with healthier alternatives.
More: 10 Signs Your Diet Is Imbalanced in Nutrients
It is important to remember that many of the problems mentioned in this article could have a variety of causes. A well-balanced diet is critical for good health, but you should always consult with a professional if you feel that there may be other underlying causes to any problems. Listen to your body and provide it with enough nutrients, and you’ll be much more in tune with what you need to be happy and healthy.