In the battle of unhealthy food vs healthy food, eating something good for you is the clear winner. Right? The problem is that many people are confused about what is unhealthy and what is healthy. With so many questions about labels, ingredients and what is actually right for you, it can be tough to get a clear answer. Understanding the differences in food can help you make the right choices. So just keep reading to get better understanding for better choices.

Overview of Unhealthy Food vs Healthy Food

So what is healthy – and what is not? It helps to look at what the experts have to say.

1.  Food List

Healthy diets are those that are made up of foods that fuel your body but don't add anything unnecessary. These include whole grains, lean protein, vegetables and fruit, nuts and seeds, and low-fat dairy. Unhealthy diets include things like saturated fat, added sugar and high levels of sodium. Healthy foods are usually all-natural; unhealthy foods are processed.

2.  Nutrient Intake

Eating healthy means you get plenty of essential vitamins and minerals, something that far too many adults are lacking in the nation today. Whole grains provide fiber, dairy provides calcium, fruits and vegetables provide potassium, and lean meats can provide protein. This is just the tip of the tasty iceberg when it comes to nutrients and minerals essential to your body function. While unhealthy food can only increase your intake of sugar, bad fat, etc. that have been listed above.

3.  Healthy Concern

Studies have shown that eating unhealthy foods can increase your risks of cancer and the chances of getting Type 2 diabetes. Heart disease is also a consideration. Unhealthy food can make you obese over time, and obesity can lead to a host of serious health problems. While when you opt to eat only healthy foods, you will have better weight management, increased energy levels, a boost in immunity, and a better emotional balance. All of these things can combine to create a much happier and longer life.

4.  Cost

Some might argue that they can't afford healthy foods, and that the unhealthy foods are much cheaper. However, studies have shown that for only $1.50 per day, a person can eat much healthier options. That's a small price to pay for better health. Buying healthy things in bulk, such as whole grains, can help cut the costs down even more.

Include More Healthy Food and Less Unhealthy Food

Once you know the difference between unhealthy food vs healthy food, you might wonder how you can incorporate more good foods into your diet. After all, habits are very hard to break, and you are probably accustomed to unhealthy food – after all, it tastes great! But you can take steps to replace the unhealthy foods with the better ones.

Start by slowly replacing what you buy at the store with healthier items. For instance, instead of that large soda, buy a case of flavored water – with no added sugar, of course. Instead of reaching for the ice cream, look to the produce aisle and invest in some watermelon or other sweet fruits. Over time, you can convince yourself to eat healthier.

In the battle of unhealthy food vs healthy food, the better stuff always wins. Here are ten great foods that can get you started down the road to success.