It’s no secret: Our society is saturated with unhealthy, unbalanced options for food. In fact, many households spend over three-thousand dollars--or 10% of the average income--eating out per year; the United States fast food industry is forecasted to make 223 billion dollars by 2020.
The Standard American Diet (S.A.D) is causing an epidemic of diabetes, cancer, heart disease and a slew of other ailments to affect ourselves, friends, family and loved ones. According to the U.S Department of Health & Human Services and the Center for Disease Control:
- 90% of Americans eat more sodium than is recommended
- Calories from added sugars and solid fats contribute to 40% of total daily calories for 2–18 year olds
- Average daily calories per person increased approximately 600 calories from 1970 to 2008
- By 2030, half of all adults (115 million adults) in the United States will be obese
- US per capita consumption of total fat increased from approximately 57 pounds in 1980 to 78 pounds in 2009
- 70% of the foods Americans consume are processed in some way
- 47% of Americans have at least one risk factor for heart disease
- More than 100 million adults in the U.S are living with diabetes or prediabetes
- The number of weight-related cancer diagnoses is expected to increase 30% to 40% by 2020
The Good News
While this may seem like cause to despair, there’s a number of reasons to remain optimistic. Namely, consumers (especially younger ones) are increasingly health-aware and conscious about their diet. Millennials and Gen Z-ers have upped their plant-based food consumption by over 50% in the last decade.
The number of Americans who say they read food labels has also increased due to concern about the ingredients and nutritional content in available products, and 40% of younger consumers say they are willing to pay more for a healthier version of their favorite meals and snacks.
Though we still have much progress to make, individuals are taking their health in to their own hands by beginning yoga practices (36 million), switching to a plant-based diet (3 million) and seeking out educated, knowledgeable nutrition coaches (a six-billion dollar emerging industry).
S.O.U.L Nutrition
Southwest Institute of Healing Arts’ Holistic Nutrition program focuses on S.O.U.L Nutrition: Seasonal, Organic, Unprocessed and Local foods. As a Holistic Nutrition Coach, you will learn to prepare balanced menus, work with clients and their dynamic goals, educate others about proper nutrition, and pioneer the future of the health industry!
Becoming a Holistic Entrepreneur is fulfilling, exciting and an opportunity to share your vision and passion with the world. SWIHA offers lifetime entrepreneurial support through Our Success Center as well as many events that allow you to get involved with our commUNITY of amazing holistic business owners!
Check out these recipes from previous blogs to get inspired to begin your own healthy journey:
● Easy Ovo-Vegetarian Shakshouka
● 3 Green Smoothie Recipes for Raw Food Beginners
● Vegan Ginger Carrot Chilled Soup
● Epically Delicious Portobello Yam Burger
