by Janet Lee
De-mineralized soil, pesticides, herbicides, toxins, GMO’s, low fat, no-fat, high carb, Vegan, Paleo, Macrobiotic, Raw, and Whole Foods - how do we make sense of it all?!
Instead of feeling like we have to choose a specific diet or way of eating, what if we simply began to make healthier nutrition choices? In honor of March being National Nutrition Month, let’s try to make different choices in order to create a healthier lifestyle. How can healthier choices be beneficial to overall health and well-being?
Here’s a few tips on how to make healthier nutrition choices not only this month, but through the rest of the year.
1. Buy Organic
Foods with the most pesticides lead to minimal nutrients and ill health. By buying organic, overall health and wellness is attained due to the because those pesticides are not being consumed. And we are also not consuming food additives. Food additives are preservatives, artificial sweeteners, colorings and flavorings, and monosodium glutamate, all items that are created and processed, and definitely not healthy for us!
2. Hydrate
Not only should we drink more fresh water, it’s also beneficial for increasing our high water fruits and veggies will keep us hydrated and provide better elimination. Among the highest are melons, all citrus fruits, strawberries, peaches and nectarines.
3. Eat foods close to nature
Elephants, rhinos and giraffes; thest animals in the jungle thrive on plants as their fuel source. If man makes food, we have to be cautious. Buying food at your local Farmer’s Market, growing your own food or making wise choices in the grocery store by shopping the perimeter of the store will get us on our way to excellent health!
4. Replace
Replace foods high in saturated fats with healthy fats found in avocados, coconut, hemp and nuts and seeds. Re-think the empty calories in packaged foods sugary drinks with a meal at home from fresh foods delivered from the local CSA. Plan on low sugar snacks and treats by learning how to make raw treats and desserts that are easy and delicious.
5. Start
Start the day with excellent nutrition! Choose a green smoothie, a fresh vegetable juice, chia cereal or buckwheat or oat groats that will provide the healthy fats, protein and carbs to help you sustain the energy, clarity and productivity for optimal health and vitality!
About the Author, Janet Lee
Janet Lee is a Raw Food Chef, Holistic Nutritionist, Life Coach and Health Educator. She is the owner of “A Healthy Journey: Where Small Steps Create Lasting Rewards.”
Janet is SWIHA nutrition instructor and enjoys sharing her passion for food with the Raw Food Cuisine class. She is also the instructor for Nutritional Assessment and Coaching. She is also an avid cyclist and hiker and enjoys the outdoors year round.
Visit her website: Livahealthyjourney
