Information overload is one of the biggest reasons people are slow to change eating habits and make healthier choices. Between the media, the research and the onslaught of pharmaceutical solutions to every problem, it's no wonder many choose to ignore the reality that food is largely responsible for health. Furthermore, processed, packaged foods are so readily available and convenient, making it even more of a challenge to reach for healthy, whole foods.
Whole Foods
Whole foods range from fruits and vegetables, to meats, dairy products, nuts, herbs and spices. These are all naturally occurring foods that have not been modified or processed. Eating healthy is simple, when sticking to whole foods because they consist of wholesome foods from nature. These contain all the essential nutrients needed to keep you healthy.
In fact, whole foods are so healthy, there’s a sub-group of whole foods that nutrionists are referring to as ‘superfoods’. These foods are packed with even more health enhancing nutrients and can even reverse the effects of aging and prevent disease. Superfoods contain antioxidants and other powerful disease fighting agents. Blueberries, broccoli, spinach, green tea, are all examples of superfoods.
Balance and Variety
We’ve become accustomed to artificially enhanced flavours in our food, so much so, that people have forgotten how great natural foods can taste. Shying away from whole foods, many assume that eating healthy will result in bland, boring meals. The truth is that Mother Nature has created such a wide variety to choose from and made it possible for us to enjoy an everchanging range of flavours, colours and textures.
Eating Organic
Eating organically grown whole foods is even healthier for you. The reason is that food from organic soil does not contain residual toxins from pesticides and other sources. Organic farms use totally natural methods for growing crops, and feeding cattle and poultry. If organic whole foods are too expensive, the regular variety is still the best choice for healthy eating over artificial foods.
Supplements
Taking supplements is also a good health practice. However, supplements should not be used to substitute whole foods, but rather to add more nutrients to your diet when it’s not possible to get it from the foods you eat. Just as in the quality of foods, there are also supplements that are are of higher quality. This should be kept in mind when looking to supplement your diet.
Staying healthy is simple. Sticking to natural, whole foods is the best way to start the road to lasting health and vitality, and trying new tasty combinations will keep it interesting. Here's to your health!
Debbie Parent is a mixed media artist and holistic living enthusiast. Her art can be seen at DAP Digital Art. She also blogs at Digital Bliss where she offers free weekly craft printables.