Nutritional Medicine Prescribes Healthy Foods

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Around 400 B.C., Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, emphasized the importance of food as medicine. Today, we cannot overlook the role that eating certain foods plays in adopting sustainable lifestyle habits for a healthy living.

While there may be similarities between food addiction and substance addictions, some argue that labeling it as an addiction is controversial. Nevertheless, certain types of food, particularly highly-processed ones, can trigger the brain reward system.

In the past, bariatric surgeons have traditionally been the go-to specialists for weight loss, leaving a gap in properly trained healthcare providers. According to Harvard Medical School, med students often receive less than 25 hrs. of nutrition-based courses.

While conventional medicine focuses on treating symptoms with medication, lifestyle medicine addresses the underlying lifestyle causes of disease and offers natural, science-based management to restore health and wellness.

Time to Focus on Better Food Choices

Dieting is often be seen as a quick fix solution to weight loss. However, studies have shown that it is not an effective long-term strategy and can actually lead to malnutrition. This is because many diets restrict certain food groups or limit calorie intake which can result in nutrient deficiencies. Making positive lifestyle changes and focusing on better food choices can help achieve weight loss goals while improving health.

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

Whole Grains – Due to the high levels of fiber and helpful antioxidants, whole grains can help to reduce inflammation and protect against chronic diseases. Studies have shown that consuming whole grains is heart healthy and can lower cholesterol levels, decrease blood pressure, and reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

Colorful Vegetables – A diet rich in colorful fruits and vegetables is important for maintaining good health. Not only do they provide essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, but they also add flavor and diversity to meals while supporting sustainable food production practices. Plus, your body and taste buds will thank you.

Whole Fruits (not fruit juices) – Stay satisfied and energized by choosing fresh whole fruits over sugary indulgences Incorporate a variety of colorful fruits into your diet; purple and blue fruits rich in antioxidants like anthocyanin have anti-inflammatory properties that may reduce the risk of cancer, heart disease, and alleviate arthritis symptoms.

Nuts, Seeds, Beans, and Plant Proteins – From improved brain function to reduced risk of chronic diseases, adding a variety of nuts, seeds and other plant proteins to your meals and snacks can contribute to overall physical and mental well-being. However, while nuts are a nutritious addition to our diets, they should be consumed in moderation.

Plant Oils – Since plant oils have a high smoke point, making them suitable for high-heat cooking methods like frying and sautéing. They are also great for baking, adding flavor and moisture to dishes without the need for unhealthy ingredients like butter or shortening.

Whole-food, plant-based diets have been gaining popularity in recent years due to their numerous health benefits. In addition to aiding in weight loss and maintenance, these diets have also been shown to improve overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer.

Exercise Supports Weight Loss Drugs

For those utilizing anti-obesity drugs, following a healthy diet along with regular exercise is key to promoting weight loss. Cardiovascular exercise can boost metabolism and curb post-workout appetite. A sedentary lifestyle, characterized by excessive sitting and lack of physical activity, is on the rise in the United States. Making healthy lifestyle changes can lead to a longer, healthier and happier life with reduced risk of chronic diseases.

In addition to exercise and diet, stress management and getting enough sleep are crucial for maintaining a healthy weight. Chronic stress can lead to overeating and poor food choices, while lack of sleep can disrupt hormone levels that regulate appetite. Incorporating mindfulness techniques, such as mindful eating, can also be beneficial for weight management. Additionally, limiting processed and high-calorie foods can aid in weight loss.

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