I recently spoke with a potential client about the
importance of eating a diet that consists primarily of whole foods. When I said
the words “whole foods” I received a blank stare. Then I realized that this
person was unsure of what I meant by "whole foods". I didn’t want him to think that I was
talking about the store Whole Foods A.K.A. Whole Paycheck (LOL), so immediately
I went on to explain my intent.
Whole foods are foods in their most basic and original
form, i.e. fresh vegetables, fresh fruits, whole grains, raw nuts, etc… Most
people don’t realize that our bodies were made to process food in their most
natural state. Our bodies were NOT designed
to process loads of sugar, food dyes, processed foods, fried foods and man-made
chemicals. However, as a society this is what the bulk of our food consumption
currently consist of.
I always tell people that a good rule of thumb is to try
to consume 30-50 percent of each meal in the form of some type of raw produce.
With each meal we should all strive to add in a fresh salad, some fresh fruit
or fresh sliced vegetables. Doing so helps to maintain a healthy digestive
system, healthy organs and an overall healthy body.
It may be an adjustment for many to go from eating little
to no whole foods at every meal to the 30-50 percent goal amount. This is why I
suggest making gradual changes. You may start with one or two meals containing
10-15 percent fresh produce and that’s fine. The most important thing is to set
the 30-50 percent per meal goal and eventually you will
get there. Once you make the necessary adjustments, your body will thank you. Just remember to eat whole and play hard!
Living Purposefully,
S. Press
