There is so much information available now on eating and foods in the “health industry,” but there are also many differing opinions.
Even the “authorities” are at odds with each other, all taking different sides of the healthy eating fence. The conversation often goes like this: Eat less fat; hold on, eat more fats! Eat meat; no wait, don’t eat meat! Drink less caffeine; well actually, go ahead and drink it!
It can be mentally exhausting and leaves us asking the big question, “OK, what really IS healthy?
It is common that everyone WILL have differences of opinions, beliefs, and ideas about what’s truly healthy – that’s what keeps us interesting! The problem is; it’s also quite confusing!
Especially in this area: knowing what to eat and drink, and what NOT to consume for better health.
With the ultimate goal of better health for you and your family, I’d like to give you just a few tips to help you figure out what eating healthy looks like specifically for your family, and your needs!
- Though opinions differ, some basic things remain the same!
There are some things that we’ve been eating since the beginning of time, like whole, unprocessed grains, fruit, vegetables, lean meats, healthy fats – this hasn’t changed with culture, society, or fads! Be wary of the “latest and greatest” new product, “food” or drink. If they really are new, chances are, they’re also artificially developed or processed. An avocado has been an avocado since the Great Flood. It’s a good method to use as a measuring stick when deciding what’s “healthy” to eat or drink.
- Balance is ALWAYS healthy!
Going off-balance for the long-term is NOT! The problem with an extreme diet, plan or product (especially one that eliminates a whole food group or two!) is that a deficiency is bound to occur. A lot of times, it’s just not immediately apparent. Our bodies were designed with a specific need for all the food groups – the process of building our cells, which is replenishing what “life” takes out of us, requires all the proteins, nutrients, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals that those different foods (prepared different ways) can give us!
- Is someone trying to sell you something?
This is NOT to knock those who charge for things (we all gotta make a living!) but rather to get you thinking and examining the motives behind a celebrity endorsement, “doctor recommended” claim, or other less than truthful methods used to get you to buy that product or quick fix. Just ask yourself these screening questions before you buy based on emotion: Is this another “quick fix” or a step towards a true lifestyle change?
The vast amount of information available on this topic can be a benefit, but also tends to bring mass confusion. Once you figure out your family’s basic guidelines for what you consider a healthy lifestyle, you’ll be able to sift quickly through that information without getting overwhelmed.
Here at FRESH Start, we follow a simple guideline for healthy eating: the Mediterranean-style Food Plan.
Why? Because it's the plan most aligned with our simple values of FRESH foods, and a balanced view that includes all major food groups.
We teach realistic, balanced small steps in healthier habits to build a lasting lifestyle of health.
For a beautiful handout on What’s REALLY Healthy, click here!
This quick, easy to read, 3-page handout will help you pinpoint what foods you can, and should, enjoy for improved health!
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