Carnivore concern
Question
I've always been a fussy eater and since starting university I've stopped eating vegetables. I'm worried that my skin is getting pale and I always seem to be tired. My friends and even lecturers are constantly asking if I'm ill. What food or vitamins should I eat to help me look a bit more alive?
Answer
A balanced diet is the best way of obtaining all the vitamins you need and keep yourself looking and feeling healthy. Whether you need to take supplements or not, will depend on your diet. In addition if you smoke, you may need to compensate nutritionally for the damage smoking can cause.
The Department of Health recommends that both adults and children eat at least five portions of fruit and vegetables per day. Fruit and vegetables contain a large amount of the vitamins and minerals the body needs to function at its best. If you don't like to eat vegetables on their own then try to eat foods that contain vegetables such as soup or a veggie burger. If you are eating a limited amount of vegetables you could also try to increase your intake of fruit.
If the foods you eat frequently are high in sugar or high in fat, such as sweets, chocolate, crisps and fast food then this can have a negative affect on your skin and general health, and may cause you to feel tired even if you've had a good night's sleep.
In addition, don't forget your body is made up of 70% water, so it's important to drink about two litres of water a day to keep you body functioning properly and keep yourself hydrated.
Physical exercise can also help you feel more energised, enhance your mood and decrease the risk of long term illnesses such as heart disease.
If your skin and health are worrying you, you can arrange an appointment with your local doctor (GP) for further discussion. If you do see your GP you may be referred to a dietician for more in-depth advice.
Updated: 03/06/2011
Question answered by bss
