The Role Of Nutrition In Women’s Health 

Nutrition sustains the body; it’s essentially what keeps everything in motion, as the body is, without a doubt, a machine. Understanding the role of nutrition means understanding that what you intake will ultimately affect every aspect of your body, physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Her Agenda did some research and interviewed experts to explore the role that nutrition plays in women’s health. Here, you’ll find a more in-depth perspective on what nutrition truly means and how you can provide more sustenance for the betterment of yourself as a whole.

“Nutrition is so much more than what’s on your plate,” said registered dietitian Sammy Peterson, functional and integrative health expert, and founder of Simply Wellness. “It’s the foundation of how our bodies function, the way we fuel how we feel, and support every system in the body — our hormones, gut, brain and energy.”

Processed foods, GMO foods, and saturated fats are all harmful foods that break down in your body and affect every system in your body. The study of nutrition teaches you to eat foods that naturally nourish your body and then pass through your body naturally.

Your diet plays a part in your energy levels, your hormones, and your body weight. Nutrition is the foundation and the root of why you either feel good or bad as a whole.

“Nutrition supports women through every life stage — from easing period symptoms like low energy, mood swings, cramps, and erratic digestion to supporting fertility, pregnancy, and menopause,” said Josie Porter, registered dietitian with Simple App.

“The key elements are providing a foundation – a healthy meal plan that includes foods that both promote health,” said Kimberly Gomer, MS, RD, LD/N. “Additionally, food is only a part of the equation. Nutrition that equals health needs to include a healthy lifestyle – sleep, stress management, exercise, and any medical issues need to be accounted for when developing a healthy nutrition plan.”

As you can see, your body is dependent on what you feed it. Feeding your body means you are nurturing your mind, body, and soul. Find things that feel good to you as it pertains to exercise.

Kimberly recommends, slowly transitioning to a healthier diet and exchanging bad foods for healthier options. Take care of yourself and show grace. Love yourself by intaking good things that will benefit you.

“Start small,” Sammy said. “Focus on adding before restricting — like incorporating a high-protein breakfast, more greens daily, adding fruits to snacks, swapping one cup of coffee for tea, or have a mindful hydration goal.”

Sammy recommends getting support if the process feels confusing.

“Work with a practitioner who takes a personalized approach,” she said. “The real magic happens when we get curious about what works for your body, not someone else’s.”

“Reducing or ideally avoiding alcohol intake, as it is the most inflammatory and toxic thing to put into their body,” Kimberly said. “Inflammation is the root of cancer and other health issues, and alcohol is the most inflammatory substance.” 

Kimberly recommends eating at home and preparing your own food instead of eating out or ordering delivery. This way, you know what you are eating and aren’t triggered by unhealthy temptations.

“Depending on health goals, the choice of foods may vary but sticking to whole, unprocessed foods focusing on increasing vegetables in their diets to improve nutrition quality,” she said.