Consuming a Healthy Diet Is Nothing New

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The Greek physician Hippocrates believed in the body's natural ability to heal and balance itself, and his teachings at the Hippocratic School of Medicine focused on promoting natural processes to improve patients’ health and well-being.

Similar to the Hippocrates’ medical treatises, today’s nutritional medicine takes into account lifestyle factors, such as dietary intake, physical activity, and family medical history when creating personalized nutrition plans for individuals.

In addition to the individual impact of consuming and avoiding certain foods, ancient physicians recognized the importance of overall dietary patterns to maintaining health and wellness. So, lifestyle medicine may pre-date recorded history.

Although less standardized than Lifestyle Medicine or Integrative Medicine, Holistic Medicine is a preventative approach to health that follows the basic principles of Hippocratic Medicine that also prescribes diet and exercise to promote healthy living.

Reap the Benefits That Come with Healthy Eating

By prioritizing a variety of whole, nutrient-dense foods and practicing portion control, individuals can achieve a balanced and sustainable approach to eating for optimal health. It is about making informed choices that support overall health and well-being. So start making changes today and reap the many benefits that come with healthy eating.

Discussed below are whole food choices recommended for good health and nutrition, such as:

Whole Grains – For lunch, swap out white bread for whole grain bread on your sandwich or have a quinoa salad instead of a pasta dish. So next time you are grocery shopping, remember these simple swaps can make a big difference in your overall health.

Colorful Vegetables – Phytochemicals found in colorful vegetables possess anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation has been linked to a variety of chronic health issues, including arthritis and autoimmune diseases. Eat more color on your journey to healthy living.

Whole Fruits (not fruit juices) – Most fruit phytochemicals may not be essential for our vital functions or human nutrients, but they offer valuable health benefits by lowering the risk of various illnesses. Fruits with different colors like green, yellow-orange, red, blue-purple, and white contain phytonutrients crucial for good health.

Nuts, Seeds, Beans, and Plant Proteins – Beans are the original plant-based protein and are rich in fiber, potassium, iron, and vitamins. A person can certainly survive on a diet of nuts, seeds, and beans, especially if your selections differ substantially. Although each are a nutritious addition to your diet, don’t over-consume.

Plant Oils – Plant oils have gained popularity in the beauty industry due to their nourishing and moisturizing properties. These oils are often used in skincare products as they can help improve skin texture and appearance. Lavender oil has calming and relaxing effects and has been used as a natural remedy for anxiety and insomnia.

Fact is, plant-based diets with lots of whole foods have been shown to provide adequate amounts of protein, fiber, minerals and vitamins, making it easier for individuals from all socioeconomic backgrounds to adopt this type of diet, which helps restore and maintain health and wellness.

Start By Making Small But Healthy Steps

Exercise also helps with weight management by burning calories and increasing muscle mass, leading to a higher metabolic rate. So, the next time you think about skipping your workout, remember all the benefits it has to offer beyond just weight loss. Balanced living involves optimizing various aspects of life including relationships, work, fitness, emotional happiness, and good health. Plan on making better lifestyle habits to support your journey towards healthy living for life.

Incorporate healthy habits like regular exercise, nutritious meals, ample rest, and stress management to boost well-being and longevity. Small steps count, so start with achievable changes and build from there and enhance your well-being with a balanced life. By prioritizing your physical health, mental wellness, and social connections, we can create a positive impact on ourselves and those around us. Making sensible changes to your food intake is what MRC’s personalized menus can do for you.