Your body is an incredible working machine and it is largely fueled by the food we eat. While this is not a revolutionary concept for most, we can sometimes forget that the type of food we put into our bodies matters a great deal and it can affect how our body and mind perform and feel on a daily basis. Imagine trying to start and run a gas-powered vehicle or lawnmower fueled with something other than gasoline. The outcome would be less than desirable and that machine probably wouldn't get too far. The same is true for the human body, but instead of gasoline, we need whole foods rich in all of the things that keep our bodies functioning at an optimal level.
The human body is a feat of biological genius and as such needs certain things to function properly such as antioxidants, phytonutrients, and fiber, which are only available in plant foods. The human body also needs macronutrients (carbs, proteins, and fats) and micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) which are also heavily concentrated in whole foods that are as close to nature-produced as possible. These food-derived nutrients are the building blocks that essentially fuel all levels of the human body from molecules, to cells, to bodily systems (digestion, circulation, nervous system), and organs (lungs, heart, brain, kidneys, etc.)
In fact, consider for a moment what happens when we eat chemically produced or processed foods. While these foods are convenient, shelf-stable, and taste good, these foods are in fact a foreign biological make-up to the human body and difficult for the body to process and use effectively.
“These foods are so hard to say no to because they are loaded with added sugars and fats, which physically change how they feel inside the mouth…. The altered texture and taste actually make the body crave more of it.” – Lauren Minchen MPH, RDN, CDN, “Eat This, Not That”
The real danger is that these types of foods are void of nutrients thereby depriving your body of those essential building blocks for optimal function.
The great news is, eating whole foods is simple. Making an effort to simply increase the number of fruits and vegetables you consume on a daily basis is a huge step in the right direction. Whole grains, nuts, and seeds are a huge part of success as well. Try to eat foods that are as close to nature as possible. Here are just a few of the immediate benefits that you may notice.
- stabilized moods
- fewer food cravings
- better more consistent sleep
- increased energy
- balanced hormones
- boost in cognitive function
- increased metabolism
So, what do you think? Is healthy eating worth it? We think so!
