We all know how important it is to eat a healthy diet. Most people know that the Standard American Diet (SAD) is not doing us any favors. More than half (51.8%) of adults in America have at least one chronic condition, and almost one third have multiple chronic conditions. Our life expectancy started to decline two years before Covid! Many experts agree that diet is one of the biggest reasons for this. But what is a “healthy diet?”. Many experts talk about it and their advice is often conflicting:
Eat whole grains!
No grain, no pain!
Low fat!
High fat!!
Keto diet
Vegan diet
Eat sma, frequent meals!
Eat one large meal!
Who is right? Do the experts agree about ANYTHING?
YES, They do!
WHOLE FOODS! No, not the store! Eating whole foods is one thing all experts agree upon.
What does it mean? Eat foods that are not processed. Instead of foods that come in a package or a can, choose what’s fresh and doesn’t have a label. “If it comes from a plant - eat it! If it’s made in a plant - leave it!”
Think BANANA, not banana muffin; POTATO, not potato chips, APPLE, not apple juice - you get the idea!
Choose organic fruits and vegetables, whenever possible, especially for the dirty dozen https://www.ewg.org/foodnews/dirty-dozen.php
If you eat animal products, think “You are what your food eats” and choose organic and pasture raised. Support regenerative farming.
By choosing WHOLE FOODS in your diet you will give your life a big upgrade!
Where can you start making swaps to add more whole foods in your diet?
Here are some easy tips:
Try sliced jicama instead of chips. Add some lime juice for flavor!
Steam some fresh or frozen broccoli or cauliflower and top with tahini dressing
Add a bunch of fresh or frozen spinach to your hot soup or stew (and watch it disappear!). You still get the nutrients!
Use fresh or frozen berries for dessert!
It is easy to make small changes every day. What’s your first step?
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