Many people have come to understand the importance of good nutrition as a critical component of establishing and maintaining long term good health. Our blood supply completely replaces itself every three months, our skin turns over every 2 months and our liver can regenerate in a matter of weeks and all the building blocks for these bodily improvements can only come from what we eat and drink; therefore we are literally what we eat.
Simplifying Healthy Food Choices in a Complex Food Environment
However, making healthy food choices can be a very complicated part of daily living. There is an ever increasing array of food choices on the market, the constant emergence of new fads with foods and the onslaught of advertisement to compel us to buy one food product over another. How is one to cope? As a naturopathic doctor that helps people to make healthy eating a sustainable and practical practice I like to simplify things when it comes to food choices.
Whole foods are foods that have been growing in and on this earth for hundreds of years are found in the perimeter of the grocery store
Packaged vs. Whole Foods: Understanding the Key Differences
In my view there are basically two types of foods to choose from; packaged/processed foods and whole foods. Packaged/processed foods are concocted in a lab by food scientists so that they’re engineered to be as tasty and craveable as possible while still being cheap to produce. Then these foods are assembled in a factory and come off the conveyor belt in mass quantities and placed into appealing packages so that they allure the shopper to buy them.
These foods are usually found in the aisles of the grocery store and typically taste great thereby satisfying the tongue with instant gratification while leaving the other organs of the body in a relative state of disarray having to deal with the downstream health implications. And of course the driving force behind these foods is to satisfy the shareholders since they’re primarily made to generate profits for the corporations that produce them.
Whereas whole foods are foods that have been growing in and on this earth for hundreds of years. Whole foods are nutrient dense and they are composed of fibers and/or proteins which promote health and satiety. These foods are found in the perimeter of the grocery store and they not only taste great as well but they also have a synergistic relationship with the human body and mind by promoting good health and longevity.
Whole foods | Processed foods |
|---|---|
Nutrient Dense | Calorie Dense |
Grow in and on Earth | Formulated in a lab and assembled in a factory |
Evolved to have a health promoting benefits | Engineered to be cheap and tasty |
Promotes health and satiety | Promotes cravings |
Contains fiber and/or protein | Contains synthetic chemicals |
Striking a Healthy Balance: The 80/20 Rule for Sustainable Eating
Food is many things; it is health and nutrition, it is social connection, it is tradition and it is joy so having the occasional food indulgence is totally fine and normal however this should be regarded as a treat rather than the regular practice. Consider employing a 80/20 rule where 80% of the food that we eat or that appears on our plate or in our grocery cart are whole foods while just 20% is the packaged processed foods.
So the next time you go to the grocery store take inventory of where you’re buying your food from. Is it from the aisles or is it from the perimeter? As a naturopathic doctor, I’m here to help you make informed, sustainable food choices that benefit your overall well being.
Food is many things; it is health and nutrition, it is social connection, it is tradition and it is joy
Embracing Consistency and Awareness on the Path to Better Health
The journey to better health doesn’t require perfection it requires awareness, balance and consistency. By shifting the focus back to whole, nutrient dense foods that nourish the body and support long term wellness, we can simplify our food choices and feel more empowered in how we eat.
Remember, every meal is an opportunity to invest in your health. With a bit of planning and a willingness to prioritize quality over convenience, healthy eating can become a sustainable and rewarding part of everyday life and it can be an essential means of promoting long term good health.
Ready to take the next step toward healthier eating habits? At Aspire Natural Health, our expert team is here to guide you with personalized nutrition counseling and holistic support tailored to your unique needs. Whether you want to improve your daily food choices, manage a health condition, or simply feel your best, we’re committed to helping you achieve your wellness goals with practical, sustainable strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the difference between whole foods and processed foods?
Whole foods are natural, nutrient dense foods that grow in and on the earth, such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts and whole grains. Processed foods, on the other hand, are manufactured in factories, often contain synthetic chemicals and are engineered to be tasty and convenient but can lack nutritional value and promote cravings.
2. Why should I prioritize whole foods over processed foods?
Whole foods promote health, satiety and long term wellness due to their high fiber, protein and nutrient content. Processed foods are typically calorie dense, engineered for taste and can contribute to health issues if consumed excessively.
3. What is the 80/20 rule in healthy eating?
The 80/20 rule suggests that 80% of your food intake should come from whole, nutrient dense foods, while 20% can be from processed or indulgent foods. This approach allows for balance and flexibility without sacrificing overall health.
4. How can I make healthier choices at the grocery store?
Shop primarily around the perimeter of the grocery store, where whole foods like produce, meat and dairy are typically located. Limit purchases from the aisles, which are often filled with processed and packaged foods.
5. Is it okay to indulge in processed foods occasionally?
Yes, occasional indulgence is normal and can be part of a healthy relationship with food. The key is to treat processed foods as occasional treats rather than staples of your diet.
Conclusion
Making healthy food choices doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By understanding the difference between whole and processed foods, employing strategies like the 80/20 rule and focusing on consistency and awareness, you can create sustainable eating habits that support long term health. Remember, every meal is an opportunity to nourish your body and invest in your well being.
Start your journey toward better health today by taking a closer look at your food choices. Prioritize whole, nutrient dense foods, practice balance and don’t hesitate to seek guidance from a qualified professional to make healthy eating a practical and rewarding part of your daily life.
