Are you trying to be more mindful about your food choices but confused if you are on the right path? We can assure you that you are not alone. With January in full swing, it’s a time when we are bombarded with information about the latest diets and health hacks, which can often lead to confusion and overwhelm.
You will be pleased to read that our intention with this blog is to try and make it simple, by sharing effective ways you can enhance your nutrition. And remember, it doesn’t need to be an overhaul. If the information we share resonates with you, pick one area and do it consistently until it becomes your norm, then choose another. This will make your health choices sustainable and allow you to enjoy the process.
So what should we be eating?
As human beings we are designed to eat real food, which means foods that are as close to their natural form as possible. Here’s another way of thinking about it; if it’s in a packet and has a long shelf life, the food is likely to be highly processed and not great for your health.
Here are 3 essential food groups to put on your plate to enhance your nutrition and health long term:
1. Add colour
With every meal we would recommend adding a variety of colourful vegetables, aim for two to three fists if you can. Colourful vegetables are packed full of phytonutrients that help many functions of your body, including aiding digestion, enhancing your immunity, and repair mechanisms.
2. Good quality fats
Fat has developed a bad reputation, but high-quality fats are essential for your health. They play a key role in many aspects, from maintaining cell and brain health, assisting with absorption of vitamins, and providing energy for your body. Consuming fat can help you stay satiated for longer too which is always a bonus, as it helps to prevent those frustrating cravings. You can get quality fats into your diet by simply drizzling olive oil onto your vegetables, or cooking with avocado or coconut oil. Foods such as grass-fed beef, eggs, fish, avocados, nuts and seeds are all good sources too.
3. Protein
Not just for gym goers who want to increase their muscle mass, protein is essential for all of us to help our body build and repair. You can get this from a variety of sources such as meat, fish, eggs, beans, nuts and seeds. Be sure to include protein with each meal.
Bonus suggestion: Water The forgotten nutrient and most important ingredient in any diet is water. Try starting your morning with a glass of water then sip away throughout the day. Once you start adding more fresh foods into your diet, you will likely notice changes along the way, such as less cravings for sugary foods, enhanced sense of taste and appreciation for the foods you are eating, and increased energy. And don’t forget, this doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Enjoy a treat if you wish, but try and keep treats a treat, and work towards the majority of your foods being fresh and real. Support your chiropractic and health journey with small and simple changes. It’s amazing what difference it can make over time. The content of this blog is for educational purposes and is not intended to offer personal medical advice. You should seek the advice of a qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this blog.