We all know a healthy diet is what we are supposed to practice. More than a century ago the United States Department of Agriculture began its healthy eating habits journey as a way to inspire people to think about what they consume and explore healthy habits. Familiar to many is the Food Guide Pyramid, recently changed twice since 2005 to represent the constant scientific studies changing what healthy eating habits look and taste like.
These icons make it seem so easy to choose healthy options and portions. Once again, easier said than done. Especially since the suggested low-portioned items taste so darn good. And, are sometimes more convenient for busy lifestyles; lifestyles that require little prep time in the kitchen.
Even if time is not on your side, don’t put so much pressure on yourself when thinking about your diet. A drastic change can put added stress on yourself, which makes continuing healthy eating that much more difficult. Try embracing healthy food patterns. Dr. Michael Blaha, M.D., M.P.H. from Johns Hopkins Medicine states, "Instead of focusing on a few healthy foods to eat, it’s much better to have a healthy eating philosophy that guides your decisions when you’re planning meals, grocery shopping or going out to eat”
So, what does this look like? TNG Retail Services’ Cassandra S. gives insight into her food routine and has come out the other side feeling great about her choices:
"I had a life changing ‘aha’ moment when I learned about the energy of food. All food has energy which transfers to us. But, what kind of energy? When I was at a very low point, I learned above-ground grown foods like kale, spinach, corn, squash and tomatoes absorb and transfer energy from the sun. These foods have an uplifting energy and help manage your mood. Foods that grow below the ground, such as potatoes, onions and ginger, absorb energy from the soil. These have a grounding energy and can help bring focus. Processed foods, neither grown above or below ground, also have an energy, but it’s not a natural one. They are lifeless products with lifeless energy. With this information in mind, I make it a point to only consume foods that will transfer good energy. I start my day with a natural anti-depressant of 2 green drinks!"
There is a reason Diet is a part of the M.E.D.S. philosophy. Good nutrition is a key element in leading and living a healthy lifestyle. And, good nutrition is personal, so do your research! Find out which foods provide you with the best results based on goals. Explore the benefits to spices, travel through heart-and-mind-healthy cuisines and have fun climbing your own pyramid!
Want to test your knowledge on healthy eating habits? Take Johns Hopkins’ quiz here!
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