Hippocrates Recognized the Value of Whole Foods

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Lifestyle medicine is not a new concept. In fact, the Greek physician Hippocrates, known as the father of modern medicine, recognized the importance of diet and exercise over 2400 years ago by recognizing ability of the body to heal itself.

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.

Early physicians in ancient Greece and Rome understood that consuming nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats can provide the body with the necessary building blocks for optimal health and function.

Generally speaking, nutritional medicine is a holistic approach to managing physical and mental health conditions with plant-based nutrition, physical activity, and better stress management. All three are the underpinning of MRC’s approach to healthy living.

Select Nutrient-Dense Food Options

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 – Discover the power of healthy eating for weight control and overall well-being by choosing nutrient-rich whole grains over refined options. Whole grains like oatmeal, brown rice, and quinoa in your diet can boost metabolism, reduce belly fat, improve digestion, and keep you feeling fuller longer.

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 – Nuts, seeds, and legumes are powerhouse foods that offer a multitude of health benefits. They provide healthy plant oils, lean protein, vitamins, and minerals without causing weight gain. These nutrient-packed options can aid in weight loss while keeping you feeling satisfied and full due to their fiber and protein content.

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.

Balanced Living Involves Many Aspects

Combating weight regain may require 60-90 minutes of moderate or vigorous activity daily. To maximize health benefits, adults should aim for 150 to 300 minutes of moderate aerobic activity weekly and engage in strength training twice a week. Balanced living involves optimizing various aspects of life including relationships, work, fitness, emotional happiness, and good health. So, plan on making healthy lifestyle habits to support your journey towards healthy living.

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. Keep moving, stay mindful, and make healthy choices for yourself and those around you. So, let your brain be the driving force towards longevity and overall well-being without any exceptions.

Visit Metabolic Research Center to learn more about our personalized menus.