2017 has quickly arrived and we are already a few weeks in. How many of us look for a fresh start at the New Year, or make resolutions?
Many of us attempt cleanses, detoxification, fad diets which cut out food groups, and diets that count calories. We want to feel better, lose weight and remain hopeful so we can perpetuate this change.
It’s been really tough to accomplish this feat during this harsh winter and being snowbound. I noticed, however, that when it comes down to what is most important, we really just need to strive to eat less processed foods. It’s really that simple. Eat whole foods that are fresh, void of chemicals and pesticides. Foods that contain as little chemicals as possible. This results in feeling vibrant and finding a healthy weight for your body.
Treat it like a challenge, “how chemical-free can you eat?” No need to count calories, carbohydrate grams, fat grams, or cut food groups. Instead just count chemicals. Easy-Peazy. Limit your consumption of foods from a can, box, bottle or package that has more than 5 ingredients listed on the label.
Examples and helpful tips:
- Plenty of fruits and vegetables, raw and cooked instead of supplements, fruit snacks, or fruit/vegetable juices.
- Whole grains and traditional fermented sourdough bread instead of refined grains such as white flour or white rice.
- Dairy products that are unsweetened, full fat (that fat is needed to regulate your blood sugar level), and from pastured animals, instead of skim/low-fat or flavored milk, sweetened/artificially sweetened yogurts with additives, and artificial cheese products.
- Seafood that is wild caught instead of farm-raised and Meats that are locally raised and butchered instead of meat products (lunchmeat, hotdogs, chicken nuggets) and meat from factory farms that contain antibiotics and are grain fed.
- Hydration from water, juice directly from fruits or vegetables, and fresh brewed coffee/tea instead of water and juices with artificial sweeteners and additives, and flavored/sweetened coffee and teas.
- Natural sweeteners such as raw honey, maple syrup, or dates instead of refined sugars (sugar, corn syrup, cane juice), or artificial sweeteners.
- Snacks like nuts, seeds, dried fruit, veggies, or popcorn made from natural kernels instead of commercial granola bars, fruit snacks, chips, or microwave popcorn.
Eating foods in its most natural state is the most important change you can make and will bring health and happiness. Make it 2017 New Year’s resolution and one to strive for every year.
Cheers!