In today's fast paced society we often grab whatever is quick and easy for lunch or dinner as we rush to get onto the next "big" thing. Many of us simply do not stop and take the time to think about what we are putting into our bodies and the fact is that if you are not eating a nutritional diet, you may find yourself feeling ill or developing a serious medical condition.

One of the most common and serious side effects of an imbalanced diet is obesity. More than 58 million Americans are overweight and more than 40 million are considered obese. However, by incorporating a proper nutritional program into your daily schedule, you will find that maintaining a proper weight will make it easier.

Obesity can lead to many health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and strokes. By maintaining a well balanced diet, you will be able to keep yourself at your ideal weight, as well as preventing further medical conditions.

Following a healthy dietary program will also reduce your risk of certain diseases and illnesses, related to poor nutrition. For example, research has concluded that choosing fast food even just twice a week can increase your risk of developing diabetes.

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States and there has been some controversy on whether saturated fats that are commonly used at fast food restuarants, plays a role. However, if you want to make sure that you are not at risk for cardiovascular disease, decrease the amount of carbohydrates you take in, as excessive amounts can increase blood glucose and insulin. Eaten in excess, these will increase your risk of heart disease, as well as high blood pressure.

When you begin a healthy diet, you will find that you will not only feel younger, you will end up looking younger. Nutrition plays an important part in the health of the dermis, the innermost layer of the skin. Skin is made up of elastin and collagen and when it does not receive proper doses of vitamin C, you may find that you are more prone to wrinkles and sagging.

Vitamin C, as well as vitamins A and E are antioxidants and will help to reduce the damage caused by free radicals. As vitamin C assists in the manufacturing of collagen, you will find that it will help reduce skin damage, therefore, leaving your skin healthier, as well as, looking more vibrant and fresh.

Another benefit to engaging in a lifestyle of proper nutrition is the increased energy and lack of fatigue you will feel. Food is fuel for your body. If you are not currently following a nutritious diet, you may notice that you will go through spells of fatigue throughout the day. Perhaps, one moment you are feeling very energetic and the next moment tired.

Feelings of fatigue could be due to an overabundance of sugar in your diet. Sugar is known to harm the body in many ways: including raising your cholesterol level and increasing digestive difficulties, such as indigestion, acid reflux, and problems with bowel movements. If you follow a nutritious diet, you will be limiting your intake of sugar and therefore, limiting your risk of health issues associated with sugar.

The fact is, following a proper nutritional program can lead to a healthier lifestyle. When you have more energy, you are much more likely to exercise, making it easier to maintain a healthy weight. You will also reduce the risks of illness and disease that are caused by either a lack of vitamins and minerals or due to an over-abundance of foods that will increase the risk of certain health conditions.

When you enlist in a proper nutritional program, you will find yourself not only feeling healthier, but looking healthier, as well.