Who would’ve thought that the hero we've been looking for is on our dinner plates, probably hidden under a pile of veggies or grains? How wonderful it is that the solutions to our unique health concerns can be deduced from the colours, textures and flavours of our meals! It's funny when you think of it that way. So, let's delve into the mystery of a healthy diet, one chew at a time!
The foundation of a healthy diet isn't as elusive as the quest for the Holy Grail. It's even simpler than cracking the code to the Rubik's Cube. Keep in mind the advice of good old Michael Pollan, "Eat food, not too much, mostly plants." Now, this might seem overly simplistic, but it's the distilled wisdom of years of nutritional research. The whims of food trends might try to tell you otherwise, but at the end of the day, it's all about balance, variety and moderation. Yes, the secret trifecta for unlocking the hero in healthy eating.
Ever watched a rainbow after a refreshing drizzle and felt a tinge of pure joy? That's exactly how a plate full of different fruits and veggies should make you feel! When I was a child, my mum used to tell me that the more vibrant the food, the better. I thought it was just another one of her tricks to get me to finish my broccoli, but surprise, surprise, she was right all along. Not only do colourful foods contain a variety of vitamins and antioxidants, they also make your meals enjoyable. There's no reiterating the importance of these natural wonder drugs enough.
I often picture whole grains as little underdog superheroes. They are not flashy or glamourous, but oh boy, do they pack a punch when it comes to nourishing your body! Whole grains like brown rice, oats, and quinoa come equipped with fibre, vitamins, and minerals. These fabulous nutrition nuggets work like well-oiled machines to maintain blood sugar levels, promote gut health, and even reduce the risk of chronic diseases. They truly are the unseen champions of the food world. So the next time you find yourself reaching for a plain old slice of white bread, maybe give its whole grain kin a go instead!
Your muscles would be as flabby as marshmallows without the adequate intake of protein. And trust me, nobody wants marshmallow arms when they’re trying to do a plank! Protein repairs and builds your body's tissues, and yes, that includes those sweet, sweet biceps. So, pay homage to these powerhouses by including lean proteins in your diet. But remember, protein isn't just for meat lovers. Vegetarians and vegans can also mount their quest for protein through tofu, lentils, chickpeas, and a variety of nuts and seeds. High five to protein!
Raise your hand if you've ever been victimized by the decade-long propaganda that demonized fat. Well, consider this your official pardon from the fat paranoia! Let's be clear, not all fats are made equal. Trans fats and saturated fats, typically found in processed food, seldom do any good. However, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats are to your body what sunshine is to a gloomy day. They reduce bad cholesterol levels, support mental health, and provide essential fatty acids that the body can't produce on its own. Nuts, seeds, fish, and avocados are all rich in these heart-lovers. So it's time to end the fat-shaming and start embracing the good kind!
You know how in most fairy tales, the wicked witch lures innocent children with sweet treats? Sugar essentially does the same to our bodies. It can lead to weight gain, type 2 diabetes and it's also really bad for your teeth. A soda here, a doughnut there might seem harmless, but this sweet devil works in sneaky ways. Try to limit processed sugars and instead, indulge in nature's very own candy: fruits. Every time sweetness beckons, answer the call with a juicy apple or a handful of fresh berries. Trust me, your waistline and your teeth will thank you for it!
A healthy diet isn't a one-time affair, it's a lifestyle. It is a commitment you take for yourself, a promise to treat your body with respect it deserves. It can be overwhelming initially, but I promise, the rewards are worth it. As someone who loves food, I've learned that a healthy diet doesn't have to be restrictive and monotonous. You can still have your favourite burger or a slice of pie, just don't go overboard. Remember, it's okay to have a cheat meal, as long as you don't end up on a cheat lifestyle. Probably, the most important ingredient in a healthy diet is self-love. So, here's to loving and nourishing ourselves one bite at a time!
Written by Madeline Sterling
View all posts by: Madeline Sterling