The way you feel has so much to do with what you are consuming every day. What you put in your mouth and of course what you feed your mind as well. But, let's deal with what's going in your mouth and fueling your body. If you eat junk then your body will turn to junk, if not now….then later. Neither option is good if you plan on living a healthy active lifestyle for many years.
Organic, of course.It isn't as expensive as it used to be to eat organic. The demand has increased and therefore so has the supply which make the pricing more competitive and the products more readily available. Most of the grocery stores even have organic selections available if you don't have the time to find a local farmers market or fresh produce stand. When you choose an organic diet based on whole foods you are consuming the best-tasting foods with the most nutrients as well as supporting the health of our planet and our species long term.
Trigger foods are normally foods that are processed and not anywhere close to their natural state. Systemic inflammation with symptoms like constipation, brain fog, fatigue are all results of eating the packaged meals and all the normal grocery store items. Gluten has become a trigger for many in society today and should be avoided if possible. Dairy, refined sugar, soy, GMO's, grains (especially corn), and of course alcohol are all known trigger foods as well. The more you can avoid these items the better you will feel as your digestion improves.
Probiotic supplementation may be necessary if your gut is unhealthy. The processed diet so pervasive in our culture today kills all the good organisms in your digestive tract. So much chronic disease could be traced to our unhealthy culture. Fermented foods are good at restoring a proper balance in your gut. You can use only one or two teaspoonfuls each day and is a powerful tool against poor diet. The overuse of antibiotics in our culture also contributes heavily to the death of the good organisms in your gut. Yes, antibiotics have their place today and are definitely the answer for many things but have been overused up until present day. Natural probiotics can also be purchased at most grocery stores and of course drug stores nationwide to get you started on the right course. Do your due diligence when choosing the product that is right for you.
In addition to the poor gut health, many of us are also deficient in important nutrients that our bodies need every day. Zinc, magnesium, B12, and vitamin D are just a few of the many deficiencies prevalent in American society today. Our foods are not grown in good fertile soils as they were even fifty years ago. The soil has been depleted and steps have not been taken to preserve or re-nourish the soil. Make sure to take a good supplement and have your levels checked. Much of the chronic disease in our society can be attributed to these deficiencies as well.
And, last but not least. Sit down and eat your food consciously and with gratitude. It is possible and it will make a difference. I know life is hectic and everyone is always too busy….but sitting down and consciously chewing your food slowly and thoroughly helps your body receive optimum benefits as your digestive juices work. Sit, relax, be thankful and enjoy your food!
Have a great day and safe travels!
Mary Crawford, HealthCare Employment Network