Many people are under the misconception that eating a healthy diet is reserved for those who are overweight. However, some people may need to gain weight, others lose it, and some just need to make better lifestyle and diet choices to improve their health and wellbeing. Eating healthily and getting regular exercise is the key to living a balanced and healthy life.
Choose Fibre!
Make a conscious effort to eat foods high in fibre as these sustain you for longer periods and reduce the desire to snack. Choose carbohydrates such as wholewheat pasta, brown rice, pulses and grains, over white or refined carbohydrates. When selecting fruit and vegetables choose variety and colour, and in so doing you will not only make your plate look more appetizing, but are guaranteed foods rich in fibre, essential vitamins and minerals, all of which are necessary for a healthy body.
Healthy Fats
The body needs fat to function properly as it is essential for lubrication of the joints, healthy skin, hair and nails. Pay attention to the amount and type you include in your diet however, as too much fat, particularly saturated fats, can lead to a risk of heart disease and obesity. Choose nuts and plant oils over animal fats and keep these portions small. When buying meat choose lean meat cuts and be sure to include healthy omega 3 rich fatty fish in your diet.
Hide ‘n Seek: Salt and Sugar
While they may taste good, excessive salt and sugar can lead to obesity, heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, diabetes and even tooth decay. Fast and processed foods may be tasty and give us energy, but they are high in salt and sugar and low in nutrition, making them an unhealthy diet choice. Be aware of hidden sugars and salt in certain foods by becoming label wise. Less is best when it comes to these two!
‘Water is the Driving Force of All Nature’ – Drink it
Do not allow yourself to get thirsty! Although we get a certain amount of fluid from the food we eat, this is not sufficient, and your body needs to be well hydrated to function properly. Drinking 6-8 glasses of water a day needs to become a routine. Remember to increase this amount if you are exercising and when it is hot.
If you are not a water fan you can add fruit slices to your water or drink herbal teas without any milk or sugar.
Buy Good Produce
When buying items such as clothes, cars and laptops, we try to buy the best quality possible as we know these will wear, perform or function better. The same should apply when buying food. Better quality means better nutrient content, and that means better body function and a healthier life. Research suppliers who stock organic, nutrient rich, wholesome foods, so that you know you are eating food ‘sprouting with goodness’ and that you’re giving your body the best you possibly can. Our Wildsprout store is the best place to get healthy food in Cape Town, in store or delivered to your door!
Think fresh, think wholesome, think water, and live the healthy life you deserve.