Eating the Right Foods Is an Ancient Tradition

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Over two thousand years ago, Hippocrates viewed lifestyle modifications to dietary intake and physical activity as medicinal solutions. Not surprisingly, he also touted that walking is a man’s best medicine giving birth to the concept of lifestyle medicine.

Hippocratic medicine taught physicians how to use food as medicine to strengthen the immune system for the prevention and treatment of wounds and surgical injuries, diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, and ENT pathologies.

Traditional healing practices have long recognized the importance of eating a variety of foods to provide the body with all essential nutrients and promote optimal health. Today, this concept is supported by modern nutritionists and dietitians.

Fast forward to current trends in health and well-being; there is a growing emphasis on lifestyle modifications like diet and exercise. With an increasing number of individuals struggling with weight issues in the United States today.

Take Small Steps on Your Wellness Journey

By eating well and making gradual changes towards a healthier diet, you can improve your physical health and positively impact your mental well-being too. Remember that taking care of yourself is a journey, not a destination, and every small step towards a healthier lifestyle is a step in the right direction. So be patient, stay consistent.

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

Whole Grains – When looking to incorporate whole grains into your diet, it is essential to choose whole grain products instead of refined ones. Look for bread, pasta, and rice made from 100% whole grains instead of white or enriched flour. Other options include quinoa, brown rice, oats, barley, and popcorn.

Colorful Vegetables – Eating a variety of colors can boost mood and energy levels, as well as potentially improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of chronic health conditions. That's why it's important to not only focus on the color of foods, but also the impact it can have on your overall health and well-being.

Whole Fruits (not fruit juices) – Aiming for one to two fruits of different color daily is a healthy objective. Berries like blueberries and strawberries boost metabolism, being low-calorie and high-fiber options. Even when trying to lose weight, you can enjoy fruits like pineapple and papaya with the enzyme bromelain that aids in reducing belly fat inflammation.

Nuts, Seeds, Beans, and Plant Proteins – Nuts, seeds, and legumes are a valuable addition to any diet. They provide a variety of health benefits and can be easily incorporated into meals and snacks. By including these foods in your diet, you can improve your health and reduce risk of chronic diseases. So go grab a handful.

Plant Oils – Essential plant oils derived from plants have been used for centuries to promote relaxation, alleviate stress, and improve overall well-being. Tea tree oil is known for its antibacterial properties and is often used for skin issues. Lavender oil is popular for its calming and soothing effects. Frankincense may promote cellular function when taken internally.

Low-fat diets have been promoted for health and weight management, but evidence suggests otherwise. Studies show that the amount of fat in one's diet doesn't correlate with obesity rates. Instead, focusing on the quality of fats consumed is crucial for health and weight control.

Exercise Increases the Quality of Life

Physical activity offers numerous psychological benefits, such as stress reduction and improved mood. Incorporating regular exercise into your daily routine can boost self-esteem, increase energy levels, and enhance overall quality of life. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity weekly, such as brisk walking or vigorous swimming to burn calories and boost heart health. For more efficient weight loss, focus on intensity with faster sprints rather than distance runs.

While the concept of "calories in vs. calories out" is often used to describe weight management, it's essential to also consider the quality of the calories you consume as well as the calories you burn during each day through physical activity. Here at Metabolic Research Center, evaluating current lifestyle habits, discussing goals, recommending necessary changes, and providing support are integral parts of facilitating lasting lifestyle enhancements for clients' overall well-being.