We need to eat less refined food. And we need to begin now. Processed food was created for convenience, but in the long term takes a toll on our bodies, minds and our overall wellness. I wonder how sluggish and unwell we have to feel before we listen to our body and change our eating habits? Refined food is usually in a box, a can or some kind of packaging. It is food that contains ingredients to keep it “fresh” on the shelves for a long time. This kind of food has no life force in it anymore and generally no nutrient value whatsoever. Have you heard the phrase “shop the 4 corners of the store?” This is because the refined foods are generally located in the aisles, and the fresh nutritious foods are located on the outside edges.
Here are a few ways to begin eating a healthier diet now:
Read the labels on everything you buy. Eat less white sugar, less white flour and less junk food. 90% of all food currently purchased is processed! It contains additives, artificial flavours, colours and ingredients that are not going to move your health in the right direction.
When reading the labels avoid palm oil, glucose, fructose, and corn syrup. These ingredients turn off the body’s natural ability to tell you when you are full. So, you keep on eating and eating. You will know you are full when you take a little pause and sigh. If you do not have that feeling, then you are eating too quickly.
You want to eat food that is as alive as possible – lots of fruits and veggies. This increases your energy and vitality, giving you vibrant health. By consuming “dead” processed foods you will have less energy and feel dull or sluggish. Your body takes in the “live” energy of food and processes healthy nutrients, whereas, the so-called dead food simply creates more work for the body to digest and eliminate. Now the digestive process takes the energy away from you and your activities. It makes sense, doesn’t it?
You wouldn’t put dirty gasoline in your car – so why put unhealthy and potentially dangerous food in your body? Think of how you feel when you eat a big fresh salad or some fruit. Then, take notice of how you feel when you eat a frozen pizza. Take note and you just might begin to change your food choices.
Try to eat with the seasons. In the fall / winter our body craves heavier foods to keep up warm; like stews and soups. If you buy from local growers you will naturally eat with the seasons. The local Kingston Market Square is bursting with organic local produce and all kinds of treats. (Reinink Farms has the best eggs I’ve had, Sarah from Edible Earth has amazing organic produce and the best kimchi around, and The Kitchen Garden is an oasis of goodness.)
Please avoid fast food as much as you possibly can. It is loaded with saturated fats that clog your arteries, has huge amounts of sodium and sugar that can send your blood pressure or blood sugar through the roof.
Never ever eat margarine – it is said that it is one molecule away from plastic. Your body does not know what to do with it. Butter is something your body knows how to metabolize and utilize. Butter is real and wow, does it ever taste good.
Plan your meals so there is no mystery when it comes time to eat. Plan your meals for the next day the night before when you have more time. Take something out of the freezer, write it down or make a short shopping list; be prepared. The morning can be rushed and cause too much pressure on you. If you fail to plan, you’re planning to fail. Consume more fresh fruit, more veggies every single day. Buy good quality frozen supplies to have on hand so that you have reserves when you run out. Plan your meals on the weekend and shop for it all then. Wash and slice veggies and have them ready for lunches and snacks. Cook a big pot of something on Sunday, eat it on Monday and freeze the rest for the following week. This will lessen the frequency of grabbing something that is not as good for you. A few snacks to carry with you in case of emergency are almonds, walnuts, brazil nuts, raisins, dried fruit and a good quality whey protein bar. They all travel well in a purse, briefcase or backpack.
Try these ideas for 28 days and your body will begin to crave healthy nutritious foods. Try it!
I wish you an abundant fall and winter filled with much love, passion and adventure. As always I am here to support you in this life journey and love your feedback. See you soon!