Good Nutrition Supports Optimal Function

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Hippocrates is credited with being the first physician to reject superstitions and apply clinical principles to the practice of medicine. Although you may have only recently heard about nutritional or lifestyle medicine, he touted food as medicine over 2000 years ago.

By applying general principles of health and wellness, Hippocrates focused his treatments on patient care and prognosis not diagnosis, and effectively managed disease through his development of clinical understanding and improvement of key lifestyle factors.

Although integrating nutrition into the practice of medicine is nothing new, it is great to the resurgence of lifestyle medicine that focuses on consuming wholesome foods and engaging in physical activities like walking, swimming and recreational sports.

By incorporating healthy habits, individuals can reduce their reliance on medication, improve overall well-being, and potentially avoid developing chronic conditions like obesity using evidence-based interventions to promote health.

Whole Foods Offer Numerous Benefits

Dieting often fails in the long run and can lead to unhealthy eating patterns. However, focusing on a healthy and balanced diet, controlling portion sizes, and making better food choices can help with weight control. A healthy and balanced diet is the foundation of a healthy lifestyle.

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

Whole Grains – Due to their complex carbohydrates, whole grains naturally lead to fewer calories consumed due to its high fiber content than can help you feel full and satisfied. Studies show whole-grain groups lose more body fat from the abdominal region than the refined-group.

Colorful Vegetables – The rainbow diet is not just about the aesthetic appeal of colorful plates, but also about the nutritional benefits that come with a diverse intake of fruits and vegetables. By incorporating different colors into your meals, you can ensure that you are getting a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are essential for maintaining good health.

Whole Fruits (not fruit juices) – Instead of keeping the doctor away, think an apple a day can help to keep belly fat away. Replacing high-calorie foods and snacks with a whole apple provides your body with dietary fiber, flavonoids and beta carotene. Whole fruit helps prevent annoying food cravings by keeping your feeling full longer.

Nuts, Seeds, Beans, and Plant Proteins – In addition to providing healthy fats, nuts, seeds and beans are powerhouse foods that provide a good source of lean plant-based protein. These are great alternatives for vegetarians or those looking to cut down on their intake of meat. Plus, they are a healthy alternative for those looking to control weight.

Plant Oils – Plant oils have been used for centuries for their medicinal and culinary properties. They offer numerous health benefits such as improving heart health, reducing inflammation, and providing essential nutrients. But, like with any food or product, too much of a good thing can be harmful.

Contrary to popular belief, low-fat diets don't guarantee weight loss or better health outcomes. Instead of fixating on fat content, prioritize the quality of fats consumed for weight management. Select minimally processed foods like whole grains, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and plant oils while limiting sugar and processed foods.

Physical Activity Enhances Brain Health

Physical activity is crucial for health, and exercise plays a key role in weight management. A regular exercise regimen can enhance brain health, weight control, disease prevention, muscle and bone strength, and overall well-being. Routine exercise has been linked to improved cognitive function and brain health. It can help prevent age-related decline in memory and cognitive skills and may even lower the risk of developing dementia or Alzheimer's disease.

Along with exercise and healthy eating, including strength training in your fitness routine can also aid in weight loss. Lifestyle choices significantly impact overall health and longevity, with diet and exercise playing vital roles in increasing life expectancy. Remember, a healthy lifestyle isn't a one-time decision but an ongoing commitment to yourself. By making simple yet meaningful changes in various aspects of your life from what you eat to how often you exercise.

Visit MRC online to learn more about our personalized menu plans to support healthy living.