5 things all nutritionists can agree on
In today’s society, there are so many dietary theories, contradictory opinions and advice around food. It has become extremely hard to navigate all the information out there in order to determine what is healthy. One of the most important theories to learn around diet is bio-individuality. Meaning, there is not one perfect diet out there that will work for everyone, and what works for me might be different than what works for you. With that said, if you are looking for somewhere to start, here are a few good theories and practices for healthy eating that everyone in the nutrition world can agree on.
1. Whole foods are better than processed foods
Look for fresh produce, grass fed meat, pasture raised poultry and eggs, wild seafood, real dairy, and the bulk bins for nuts, seeds and grains. A good method is to shop the perimeter of the grocery store and avoid the center aisles. Aim to buy items that don’t have an ingredient list. If you are going to purchase items with an ingredient list, try to stick to products with 5 ingredients or less, and with ingredients that you recognize.
2. Cooking at home is best
The best way to really know what is in what you are eating, as well as the quality of the food is to make it yourself. It has also been found that the amount of time spent cooking at home predicts obesity rates more reliably than any other measure. It is also more affordable than eating out. Keep it simple, or have fun with a new recipe - whatever is your style! While cooking, turn on some music or a podcast, light a candle, and enjoy yourself.
3. Small farms are better than factory farms
Small farms produce healthier food than industrial farms. If they are organic and local, even better. The animals are treated better, the food is fresher and healthier, and typically there are less hormones and pesticides being used. Also, smaller local farms are better for the environment and for the people working at them. Eat Wild is a great resource to find small farms near you.
4. You can’t go wrong with vegetables
Vegetables are a staple in almost every diet out there. Whether you follow a vegan, vegetarian, paleo, mediterranean, whole30, weight watchers, or any of the other number of diets out there, they pretty much all support eating lots of vegetables. Variety is also important here. I recommend “eating the rainbow” when it comes to fruits and vegetables. Try to incorporate every color into your diet. Consider looking into a CSA (community supported agriculture) which delivers in season produce from local farms. Check out Local Harvest for CSA’s that serve your area.
5. Everything in moderation
The best diet includes lots of variety. Food is information for our cells and different foods provide us with different nutrients, vitamins and minerals. Getting a variety helps us build a stronger and healthier body. Also, don’t be afraid to enjoy that special occasion now and again, just remember everything in moderation.
"Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food"
-Hippocrates
