Today, we brush the surface of the transformative power of nutritional healing while shining a light on effortless yet powerful choices that pave the way to a healthier and more vibrant life. As a dedicated wellness advocate, I firmly believe that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition. Each person's body is unique, and understanding this individuality is the key to unlocking the path to optimal health and wellbeing.
Unmasking the Illusion of Healthy Nutrition & Eating
Often, we believe we are consuming a healthy diet, but unknowingly, we may be eating foods that are not entirely beneficial for our bodies. This was my downfall for many years! I was meal prepping, eating a ton of vegetables, healthy fats, and whole protein sources and yet still have digestive issues, bloating, and at a plateau in building muscle mass. It wasn't until I discovered Viome and found out that ALL of the veggies I typically ate, were not the optimal veggies for my body. I also learned that I didn't have the proper gut biome to break down protein so even though I was eating an optimal amount of protein, my body couldn't utilize it. Instead it was causing inflammation in my gut, bloating, and digestive issues. I can't stress enough that everyone's body being unique and the importance of utilizing science to understand your body. I'll get back to Viome at the end of this blog along with discount codes to use for your own journey.
Mood and Food
Our mood and emotional wellbeing are intricately connected to the foods we consume. Food can be a source of comfort, celebration, and joy, but it can also impact our emotional state. Consuming foods rich in tryptophan, such as turkey, nuts, and seeds, can boost serotonin levels, promoting feelings of happiness and relaxation. Conversely, excessive consumption of sugary or processed foods can lead to energy crashes and mood swings.
Clues from Within
Cravings are not to be ignored but rather explored as potential clues to what our bodies genuinely need. Rather than dismissing cravings as mere indulgences, it's essential to pay attention to them and decode their messages. For example, a craving for chocolate might indicate a need for magnesium, which is abundant in dark leafy greens and nuts. Whereas craving sugar often indicates our body is in need of more protein. By listening to our cravings and making informed food choices, we can address nutritional imbalances and support our overall wellbeing. Stay tuned for more blogs and posts about what are cravings are really telling us coming soon!
The Gateway to Absorbing Nutrients
Optimizing digestive health is crucial to unlocking the full potential of the nutrients we consume. Our digestive system plays a critical role in breaking down food and absorbing essential nutrients. A diet rich in fiber from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains supports proper digestion and keeps the gut microbiota balanced. Additionally, incorporating fermented foods, such as fresh yogurt and sauerkraut, introduces beneficial probiotics that promote a healthy gut flora. Another benefit to Viome is that with your results you will get a recommended list of supplements that your body needs. This list allows you to add these to your current routine as you wish, or you can purchase custom made supplements specifically for your body. This is the route I took and saw immense changes in my mood, energy levels, bloating, and muscle mass production. I have discount codes for supplement subscriptions to save you money below!
Eating the Colors of the Rainbow
Nature's bounty offers a vibrant spectrum of colors in fruits and vegetables, each with its unique set of nutrients and antioxidants. Incorporating a diverse array of colorful foods into your diet not only makes your plate visually appealing but also ensures that you obtain a wide range of essential vitamins and minerals. From the deep blues of blueberries to the bright orange of sweet potatoes, let the colors on your plate be a testament to your commitment to nourishing your body from within. Stay tuned, we will be doing another blog and posts with a complete rainbow breakdown of foods to choose for each color along with their benefits soon!
Understanding Refined vs. Complex Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are an essential energy source for our bodies, but not all carbs are created equal. Refined carbohydrates, found in sugary snacks and white flour products, cause rapid spikes and crashes in blood sugar levels, leading to energy fluctuations and increased cravings. On the other hand, complex carbohydrates, such as those present in whole grains and legumes, release energy slowly, providing a steady and sustained fuel source. Opting for complex carbs is a step towards stabilizing your energy levels and maintaining overall wellbeing. Easy ways to do this are opting for brown rice over white rice, choosing whole grain bread over white bread, and switching a soda or energy drink for a fresh pressed juice.
The Significance of Non-GMO Foods
Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) have become increasingly prevalent in our food supply. While their long-term effects on human health are still debated, opting for non-GMO foods can provide peace of mind. Choosing organic and non-GMO options ensures that you are consuming produce grown with natural methods, free from synthetic chemicals and genetic modifications. This step was another game changer in my life. I lived the majority of my life from age 17 to 27 with debilitating stomach issues. Multiple times a week I would be crippled over in pain and/or dry heaving bile and crying my eyes out. Doctors couldn't figure out what was wrong so suggested I undergo "exploratory surgery". I don't know about you, but those two words do not go together in my opinion. I started doing research and had a friend point out that I was eating a ton of processed foods which are laden with preservatives, artificial flavors, and excessive sugars can wreak havoc on our health. A couple weeks after switching my diet to whole foods, which are minimally processed and retain their natural nutrients, with a focus on non-GMO and organic offerings my stomach issues started to subside. I was going multiple days without any issues. I made this change almost 10 years ago and have yet to have day of crippling pain or dry heaving my brains out since!
The Myth of One Right Diet for All
In a world inundated with dietary trends, it's easy to fall prey to the allure of quick fixes and drastic results. However, there is no single "right" diet that suits everyone. Our genetic makeup, metabolism, and lifestyle factors play a vital role in determining the ideal nutritional plan. As a nutritional coach, my mission is to utilize science to guide you towards discovering the best approach that aligns with your body's unique requirements. By conducting tests in partnership with Viome we will learn exactly what foods are superfoods for your body and what foods you should be avoiding. We can do this together in a coaching package or you can buy the test yourself, use the code JWW110 at checkout for $110 off any Intelligenceâ„¢ Test.
I could write so much more about each of these topics, but for the sake of your eyes and time I will dive deeper in upcoming blogs and posts. Don't forget to subscribe so you can be the first to know when these updates release!
As we journey towards nutritional healing, let us remember that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to diet. Understanding our body's unique needs and nourishing it with whole, non-GMO, and colorful foods is the key to optimal health and wellbeing. Embracing the mind-body connection between mood and food empowers us to make conscious choices that positively impact our emotional state.
By tuning into our cravings and decoding their messages, we can address nutritional deficiencies and foster a sense of balance within. Moreover, optimizing digestive health ensures that the nutrients we consume are properly absorbed, leading to enhanced vitality and overall health.
As your dedicated wellness and nutritional coach, I am here to guide you on your transformative journey. Let's embrace the power of nutritional healing, honor our bodies' uniqueness, and cultivate a profound connection between the foods we eat and the lives we lead. Together, we will pave the way to a more vibrant, balanced, and joyful existence.
JWW110 = $110 off any Intelligenceâ„¢ Test
JWW15 = 15% off your first 6 month subscription
JWW10 = 10% off your first 12 month subscription
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