and disease. The body is given what it is needed to be calm and relaxed, or stressed and agitated.
When food is viewed as medicine, an amazing shift occurs. Whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and seeds, etc. become more than their scientifically defined nutrients, and are appreciated for their healing properties and energy. In a culture that is run-down, constantly stressed and ill, we need to look to these energy- giving, life-giving sources of food in order to healthfully thrive. Eating a diet rich in sugar and processed foods will not do this. However, the science of eating confuses us daily with its charts, pyramids, recommendations and indexes. For instance, these charts villainize high-sugar fruits, like dates, bananas or pineapple, while being told that candy or processed foods are ok because they are lower on the glycemic index. Yet, the sugar in a date is so different than the sugar in a candy bar;
thus the energy you receive from these two foods differs completely.
Science may break this down on the glycemic scale to be nearly comparable, citing that sugar is sugar, but that date will offer you vital energy in nutrients like dietary fiber, tannins, Vitamin A, potassium, antioxidant flavonoids such as beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin, (which are anti-inflammatory and anti-aging), iron, calcium, magnesium, manganese and copper, while your candy bar will offer you nothing but empty calories and inflammation.
Your body knows what to do with the sugar in the date, because it comes in whole form, with the whole package. That candy bar, however, is so processed and broken apart, your body cannot recognize it as real food and it becomes harmful to the body. Over time, eating a lot of processed, sugary foods can lead to inflammatory conditions that contribute to chronic illness.
As I said in the beginning, I believe we are coming to a point in time when food will once again be a legitimate form of healing, and used widely as the primary form of medicine. Many people are suffering from chronic illness and many more deal with autoimmune disorders, allergies and gastrointestinal issues on a daily basis; and they want answers and healing. If you suffer from any of these, take a look at your diet.
Are you eating enough fruits and vegetables to promote healing? Do you eat a lot of processed foods or low quality meats? How much sugar do you consume daily? Rather than jump from one mystery diagnosis to the next, take charge of your health and get into the kitchen!
What you eat will promote health or contribute to dis-ease. You make that choice daily, with every meal. Let food be your medicine every day. Your body will thank you.
Caryn O’Sullivan is an Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, Food Therapist and founder of Appetites for Life. She supports women who struggle with low energy, weight management, cravings and body image with a 5–step program that teaches how to tune-into your body, tune-up your health, and tap into the power of food.
www.appetitesforlife.com
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