By Emily Ford
Food certainly sustains us! But often preparing a healthy meal is a chore rather than an enjoyable part of our daily routine. Food gives us the energy we rely on for our daily lives yet meal preparation is often a rat race.
Often we overlook the basic principle of eating real food. Instead most of us go towards packaged products and food labels proclaiming to make us feel better, move faster, and live longer. But what about food? We need to focus our eating around whole, real foods that resemble their natural state. It is amazing what a difference this can make in our bodies and for our environment.
Eating real food does not need to be complicated. Focus on eating whole grains, vegetables, fruits and lean protein and dairy. One tip is to shop the outer section of the grocery store first because most ‘real’ food is located there. Only walk down isles for specific items you need.
Focusing your food selection on a plant-based diet of whole grains, vegetables, and fruits will provide your body superior nourishment. Eating more whole foods can improve your health and help prevent diseases. Beyond energy, food provides vitamins and minerals that protect our bodies from these diseases. Certain health benefits can be found through eating real food and not products that resemble food. Eating whole foods is one of the best things you can do to sustain a long and healthy life.
Here are a few more tips to eat more whole foods:
- Grocery shop with a list so you can stick to your plan
- Eat fewer packaged foods… say no to cellophane!
- Keep fruits and veggies ready to eat so you can snack on them or have them available to use for a fast dinner
- Include beans as a healthy protein in meals and snacks
- Consume healthy fats such as olive oil, canola oil, nuts, seeds, and avocados
# # #
Emily Ford is a Registered Dietitian, Certified Diabetes Educator and Pilates Instructor. She owns Carolina Core, a Pilates and Nutrition Counseling Studio in Carrboro. Emily is committed to an overall healthy lifestyle and helping others achieve their best health! To find out more, go to www.CarolinaCorePilates.com
