Hippocrates Connected Whole Foods with Wellness

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One of the key principles of nutritional medicine is that food is not just fuel for our bodies, but also a source of nutrients that can have powerful effects on our health. Ironically, this is the same findings set forth by Hippocrates 2400 years ago in ancient Greece.

By studying the historical significance of Hippocrates' teachings, we can connect them to modern healthcare concerns and emphasize the importance of improving lifestyle factors, such as eating whole foods and staying physically active by walking.

Throughout history, medical providers have documented the relationship of food and wellness. A lack of vitamin C can result in scurvy, a deficiency in iron can lead to anemia, and excessive consumption of trans fats can contribute to heart disease.

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

Choose from a Variety of Wholesome Foods

Choosing nutrient-dense options means selecting foods that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients. These foods provide energy and support bodily functions, helping to maintain overall health and well-being. Making smart food choices also involves paying attention to food labels and ingredients.

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

Whole Grains – Make the switch from refined grains to whole grains like oatmeal, barley, and brown rice to boost metabolism, reduce belly fat, and control weight. Including nutrient-rich whole grains in your diet can help lower cholesterol levels, decrease diabetes risk, promote weight loss, and enhance overall health.

Colorful Vegetables – Different colored vegetables are linked to higher content of specific nutrients and health benefits. Brightly colored fruits and vegetables naturally contain healthy levels of antioxidants and polyphenols, which are protective anti-inflammatory compounds that are naturally found in plants that improve cellular function in blood vessels.

Whole Fruits (not fruit juices) – Whole fruit's fiber content supports proper digestion, reduces cholesterol levels, and decreases the risk of heart disease. Adding a colorful array of fruits and vegetables to your menu plan provides essential vitamins and antioxidants crucial for disease prevention. Plus, dietary fiber from fruits helps lower cholesterol.

Nuts, Seeds, Beans, and Plant Proteins – Seeds are among the most healthful foods in the plant world. They're loaded with fiber, monounsaturated fats, and important vitamins and minerals. Almonds are rich in vitamin E, magnesium, and calcium. Beans are good sources of protein, complex carbs, fiber, nutrients, and low in fat.

Plant Oils – Plant oils are an excellent source of these essential fatty acids, making them a vital part of any healthy diet. Moreover, By consuming plant oils regularly, we can boost our antioxidant levels and improve our overall health. So, in addition to their nutritional benefits, plant oils have many medicinal properties.

Metabolic Research Center can help you incorporate personalized menus that contain adequate nutrients to support healthy living on a sustainable plant-based diet. Low-fat diets may not necessarily lead to weight loss, so focus on the quality rather than quantity of fats consumed for overall health and weight control.

Walking at Lunch Is a Good Physical Activity

Exercise has been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress, promoting a sense of well-being. Incorporating small bouts of physical activity throughout the day, such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator or going for a walk during lunch breaks can help. Additionally, regular physical activity can improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of developing dementia or Alzheimer's disease.

Remember, it's never too late to start making healthy lifestyle changes with changes to diet and exercise. Incorporating a balance of physical activity, nutritious eating habits, and mindfulness practices into your daily routine can help you live a longer, healthier, and more fulfilling life. It also creates a ripple effect, inspiring others to make positive changes. By prioritizing your physical health and mental wellness, you create a positive impact on those around you.

Making sensible changes to your food intake is what MRC’s personalized menus can do for you.