Individuals who are health conscious are very interested in eating healthy foods. Researchers and doctors have concluded that our eating habits have a great bearing on our overall health. The obesity rate has increased in recent years, with a large number of obese individuals being under the age of 30. In addition, during the last decade there has been an increase in the number of men and women having heart attacks. Nearly a half of century ago the average age for a heart attack was over 60.

Today, many individuals are experiencing heart attacks or signs of a forthcoming heart attack in their 30's and 40's. Heart conditions are generally attributed to eating excessive amounts of fatty foods. However, simple changes such as eating more healthy foods may greatly decrease the chances of dying prematurely.

Eating healthy foods does not mean restricting all fatty foods and sugary foods from our diet. Fatty foods contain protein, which is a vital nutrient. Additionally, our bodies require a balanced blood sugar level. Adopting healthy eating habits include eating enough food, and eating enough of the right kinds of food. It is estimated that the average adult only consumes one balanced meal a day - either lunch or dinner. Many skip breakfast and do not eat their first meal until noon or 1 PM. On average, the first meal of the day consists of fatty fast foods. In addition, because many lead hectic or busy lives, this prevents them from preparing healthy, balanced dinners which include meats and vegetables.

Eating healthy foods does not require a major lifestyle change, nor does it require eliminating junk food from our diets. A breakfast consisting of cereal, oatmeal, or bagels will place many on the right track to eating healthy. Instead of heading to a fast food restaurant for lunch, consider eating a healthy salad and crackers for a mid-afternoon snack. A healthy dinner may consist of meat that is baked or rotisserie and a vegetable medley.