Why eat healthy?

pHion Balance  |  0 Comment

Most people have been on some kind of a diet during their life. Whether the goal was to lose a large amount for an upcoming special occasion or 5-10 pounds, one thing these diets all had in common was food deprivation. And, more significantly, these diets were also meant to be temporary.

A change to a healthy lifestyle, which includes a change in what you eat as well as adding regular exercise to your regime, can transform every aspect of your life. To ask the question “Why eat healthy?” I answer with another question “How can you not eat healthy?” Food is essential for life, but not just any food. Processed, convenience or fast food acts like a poison in our bodies, preventing even the most basic functions from taking place. For example, good food such as fiber rich vegetables provide nutrients to the digestive system, help move other foods through and keep our system regular. However, caffeine can act like a toxin to the digestive system, leeching the nutrients and can cause diarrhea in some people and constipation in others.

Eating a diet free of sugar can lead to Type II Diabetes, a condition rising at alarming rates. Sugars found in unhealthy carbohydrates and soda increase the blood glucose in the circulatory system. We do need some glucose for energy but we can get that from our healthy fruits and vegetables. The overabundance of glucose leads to insulin resistance, which causes diabetes. Insulin is a hormone that unlocks the cell’s ability to absorb glucose from the bloodstream, however cells that become resistant can no longer absorb glucose, which remains in the bloodstream. Glucose levels increase without any regulation. Type II Diabetes is a very difficult disease to manage but is easily preventable with a healthy diet.

Think of eating healthy foods as your investment in low cost preventative care medicine. Numerous studies have proven that a diet high in fiber and fresh fruits and vegetables are the best ways we can prevent heart disease, high cholesterol, high blood pressure as well as certain types of cancer. If you have children, you will be saving another generation through your example. Healthy eating is a great way to prevent obesity or maintain weight.

A few other benefits might be especially meaningful to you. Healthy foods may cure you of tiredness and depression, especially if you have been eating too much fast food. You’ll notice you have more energy and focus. You can also look forward to looking great, with glowing skin, glossy hair and strong nails, all due to your increase in essential fatty acids.

It’s understandable that on a hectic day, it’s easy to stop for fast food with a car full of kids. As long as you try to limit those trips, and learn to get creative with slow cookers or premade, prefrozen home cooked meals, you and your family will enjoy the benefits of healthy, nutrient-rich foods.

Here's to your wellness,

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