My fascination with health began when I was in the seventh grade. It was the 1980s and I was a typical tween with big hair. I loved my swatch watch. I was obsessed with school supplies, and I adored my spiral notebooks, which were full of stickers that smelled. And I wore all the trendy clothes like jelly shoes and bracelets.
I remembering standing at my junior high school locker reading a story that said eating potato chips was linked to acne. I couldn’t imagine how eating chips could affect hormonal acne. But I was young, naïve and I didn’t realize it then, but I had a lot to learn.
In a world where health fads come and go, one adage remains timeless: “Food is medicine.” This simple yet profound concept underscores the immense impact that the foods we consume can have on our overall well-being. From preventing chronic diseases to boosting our mood, the relationship between diet and health is undeniable.
For my body, I have learned first-hand that food is the foundation of healing. And my diet is the most powerful tool I have to stay healthy.
Our bodies are intricate ecosystems that rely on nutrients to optimally function. Carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins and minerals all play essential roles in bodily processes. A well-balanced diet acts as the conductor of this symphony, ensuring that each nutrient is in harmony, promoting growth, repair and vitality.
The idea that “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” couldn’t be more accurate when it comes to health. Research consistently demonstrates that certain foods possess the power to reduce disease.
The gut microbiome is more than just a digestion center—it’s a thriving ecosystem. A diet that’s good to the gut is one that embraces fiber-rich foods, prebiotics and probiotics. These foods not only support digestion but also bolster your immune system, enhance nutrient absorption and even influence your mood.
The specifics of what constitutes a healthy diet can vary from person to person. My diet is ultra-healthy and clean. I’m a vegan. I eat nearly all organic. And I consume only a handful of healthy processed foods. I don’t eat processed sugar. I don’t eat inflammatory oils. And I eat 99.9% of my food at home to ensure that there is nothing hidden in my food. I believe “food is medicine” stands as a guiding principle for achieving lasting health. Nourishing my body with nutrient-dense foods is about embracing vitality, warding off diseases and enhancing my overall quality of life.