I am often asked how someone should limit a helpful food source such as beans, greens, colorful vegetables and fruit. The lower fat foods that do not cause a large pleasure response in our brains, however a large beneficial response in our body’s metabolic systems. Instead of asking how much can I have (positive connotation) I get asked how much do I have to have (negative). The full benefit of improved microbiome health and in turn boosted immune system function, improved circulation and cardiovascular health, as well as help with normalization of weight and sustained energy is missed and seemingly underwhelming. But why? Why do we limit and see these foods as a sacrifice? If you long for improved health and wellness I am happy to report it is not complicated nor does it need to be expensive. You do not need a magic pill or procedure. You simply need a pantry cleanout and a trip to the produce section of your local grocery store.
In comparing the response to our health friendly foods to highly processed breads, crackers, dairy, meat, oil, salt, and sugar, I experience a very different conversation. “How much can I have” is 95% of the time the main concern. It is a sacrifice to avoid said foods even though they are what is causing our country’s health demise. Even though they are taking parents and grandparents away from their families too soon and causing significant health decline of our youth (obesity now effects 1 in 5 children laying the foundation for premature cardiovascular decline, diabetes and cancer). Even though they yield mental health decline as well as metabolic disorders. While we know, through evidence based research that these foods in addition to our excessive eating tendencies are causing such health destruction we still want to know how close we can get to the fire before we are burnt. Isn’t that in itself a very negative and limiting way to live?
Did you know there are over a 1,000 vegetable varieties and 2,000 fruit varieties. The choices are endless! That paired with whole grains, potatoes, beans and other legumes and a variety of herbs and spices you can create well balanced meals for you and your family that can be thoroughly enjoyed while at the same time improving your health.
I encourage you today, do not limit yourself to disease. Choose plants, cook more at home, move your body often and enjoy time with those who mean the most to you! If you would like help realizing a limitless plant based lifestyle, please email us at info@doctordulaney.com for more information on how we can help you along your health and wellness journey!
With Gratitude,
Addie Dulaney Majnaric, RDN, LD