Why Whole Foods Can Help You Feel Your Best
From a young age, we learn that what we eat matters. With the abundance of nutrition advice, fad diets and trends available today, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. A whole foods-based diet offers a simple, balanced and effective approach that supports the body in functioning at its highest potential.
What Are Whole Foods?
Whole foods are foods that are not processed and that are free from additives such as sugar, fats and sodium. If the food comes from a plant, the ground, or an animal, it is most likely a whole food. Examples include:
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Whole grains – brown rice, wild rice
- Lean proteins – chicken breast, lean beef, turkey
Whole foods are crucial in our diet for maintaining strength, a healthy weight and they can even contribute to a positive mood.
Benefits of Eating Whole Foods
- Improved digestion
- Reduced inflammation
- Weight loss/weight management
- Improved mood
- Improved mental clarity
- Reduced depression and anxiety
To incorporate whole foods into your diet, start by filling half of your plate at mealtimes with fruits or vegetables. Make a quarter of your plate a lean protein source. Make a quarter of your plate a whole grain or complex carbohydrate, such as sweet potatoes or brown rice.
Keep it simple, keep it easy and keep it balanced. Choosing whole foods is a great way to stay focused on your health goals while feeling your best.
Learn more about health and wellness benefits.
By Tori Eisenberg, LiveNOW Health and Wellness Coach
