NUTRITION
When we think of food, our minds often go to “calories”. However, nutrition goes well beyond calories. More people now think about food as medicine. An important part of their wellbeing. Eating healthily is no longer just about counting calories.
Food offers choices that can dramatically impact our wellbeing. Nutrition affects our physical, mental, and even spiritual health. For instance, many religions have dietary restrictions. Other belief systems may avoid foods produced from animals. Numerous studies showcase the benefits of foods and nutrients. These nutrition benefits range from oxidative stress to cardiovascular disease. Some foods have even been shown to promote cognitive health.
Food choices matter for your wellbeing. Processed foods are harmful to not only your immediate health but also the planet. Documentaries and articles continue to highlight the harm and unpleasantness. It could be toxins from a pig farm. Methane from livestock may threaten our atmosphere. And, of course, there are the additives and preservatives that wreak havoc in our bodies.
No. Nutrition requires more than counting calories for your wellbeing.
Think About Nutrition More Broadly
Nutrition, Food, & Friends!
Since the dawn of time people have shared food. The wellbeing benefits of nutrition are not limited to nutrients and calories. Preparing and / or eating food with others promotes relationships. Whether it is lunch with a casual acquaintance or preparing a meal with family / friends, you can enjoy good food and conversation. Ingredients for your wellbeing! And for all those who enjoy social media, just imagine a never-ending stream of great photos and posts!
The Cost Of Nutrition
It can be frustrating to buy healthy food. For some reason the processed, poor-nutrition foods cost less. But there is a cost to poor nutrition as well. Many chronic diseases are rooted in Lifestyle. Research has shown that you can not only avoid but even reverse chronic diseases like Type 2 Diabetes with better nutrition. Think about that versus another prescription that you might avoid!
Ideas For Better Nutrition
Cooking can seem like such a chore... unless you spend a few moments to prepare your own food! For example, a slow cooker can greatly aid your food budget. Just some simple, fresh ingredients along with some herbs and spices can result in a tasty and easy meal. Best of all is a slow cooker doesn't require exact timing! Put in your ingredients, turn it on and wait a few hours. If you go over by an hour that's OK! Nutrition made easy and less costly!
Nutrition Thought For Your Wellbeing
Let food be your medicine and medicine be your food.
-Often attributed to Hippocrates but source unknown.
If Hippocrates was not the father of Food As Medicine then he certainly was an early believer! The ancient Greek physicians used food to treat and prevent many maladies. Throughout history and in other medical systems nutrition has played a pivotal role where food is “go to” treatment for many ailments.
Western medicine has long overlooked the power of food in health. Luckily, more physicians are introducing nutrition and lifestyle into their practices. Likewise, more consumers are demanding alternatives to pharmaceuticals. Overall the benefits posed by simple foods like tea, berries, and much more greatly outweigh the risks… as long as you are working with a licensed healthcare provider.
HealthCare Too Articles on Nutrition
There are so many benefits from a good nutrition. HealthCare Too has put together articles to help you explore the benefits of good eating and ways to achieve them. Enjoy these articles with our blessing!
Imagine What We Could Do
Can Whole Foods Win on Flavor and Health?
How To Improve Food In Food As Medicine
What Does An Unhealthy Diet Cost You Every Year?
What Is The Benefit Of Lemon Balm?
What Is Kimchi And What Are Kimchi Benefits?
Additional Resources
In addition to our articles you may find these resources useful:
- NutritionFacts.org is headed by Michael Greger, M.D. FACLM and is a rich source of research and insights.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: This site offers information on everything from feeding babies to public policy.
- The U.S. National Library of Medicine’s MedlinePlus is a good place to discover articles and statistics for better eating.
- Forks Over Knives was pioneering documentary in the plant-based diet and still offers helpful insights to start or stay plant-based.