Have you heard the term “whole foods diet”? Are you confused about exactly what the means? It turns out that a whole foods diet is really quite simple. This type of diet is a lifestyle centered around eating mainly unprocessed foods, fresh fruits, and vegetables. The basic concept is that food should come from nature. When you do need to purchase a prepackaged food item, it should have minimal ingredients with easy to names that you are familiar with. As you think about a whole foods diet, you may have thoughts of all of the foods you can’t eat swirling around in your head! Understanding the health benefits may make the transition a little easier.
- First of all, you’ll feel better! Fruits and vegetables are jam packed with key nutrients your body needs. Absorption of these nutrients will add to your overall health.
- A healthy weight comes in two parts. Part one is physical activity. Equally as important is eating correctly. Losing weight or maintaining a healthy weight is easier when eating clean.
- You immune system will function better, which means you’ll have increased healing capability and get sick less often.
- Processed foods can make you feel sluggish. Eliminating or reducing processed foods will help you have better concentration.
- Your energy level will get a boost. If you rely on a caffeinated beverage or sweets for an energy boost you’ll experience a hike in blood sugar followed by a crash. If you turn to fruits and vegetables instead you’ll experience a slow and steady release of sugar and more even energy.
- You’ll sleep better. Vitamins and minerals help regulate hormone function throughout the day, which helps promote a deeper sleep at night. Sleep is important! It helps repair muscle, sharpen focus, and increase energy levels.
Rather than thinking of it as a diet, think of it as a lifestyle change. You can get started by making small changes now that will lead to bigger changes in the future. Here are a few do’s and don’ts to get you started.
The most important part is to not overwhelm yourself! Start small and follow the 80/20 rule. Eat healthy, whole foods 80% of the time and allow yourself to indulge or give yourself a break 20% of the time.
What will be your first step towards this lifestyle change? Maybe it will be to try Quick and Easy Fettuccine. Enjoy!
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