Whole foods are a great source of essential nutrients. A well-stocked pantry can contain all the biologically active compounds necessary for health, longevity and vitality.
When your health is good, coupled with a balanced diet that is filled with whole foods such as grain; fish; meat; colourful fruits and vegetables; healthy fats; there is really no need to supplement with vitamin and mineral supplements. This is because your essential health promoting nutrients are coming from your plate!
Eating a balanced diet may not be so difficult. The following are some simple guidelines:
Choose Healthy Fats
Healthy fats are heart healthy and important for maintaining good health. Nuts and seeds, fish and oils such as coconut oil and olive oil contain health polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats. It is important to integrate these into everyday meals. It is important however, to limit saturated fats and to completely avoid trans fats found in many processed foods.
Increase Fibre Intake
Fibre is important for a healthy gut and is also important to maintain a healthy heart. Fibre is found in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes and beans and nuts.
Increase Fruit and Vegetables
Fruit and Vegetables contain an abundance of minerals, vitamins and antioxidants. All contributing to good health. 2-3 fruits can be eaten per day. Vegetable intake is unlimited.
Exercise
Exercise contributes to a healthy mind and healthy body. 30-60 minutes of exercise 3 days per week is recommended. This can be walking, running, swimming. Remember to couple with a meditation activity such as yoga!
Be Creative
Try some of these awesome recipes that may look familiar, only with healthy twists:
- Zucchini Noodles Recipe
- Delicious Lentil, Kale and Chicken Soup for Winter
- Eggplant Lasagna Recipe
- Buckwheat & Banana Pancakes Recipe
It is important to note that nutritional supplements do play a role in our health when our health is compromised such as cold, flu and general building up of the immune system during bouts of illness. For more ideas, contact your nutritionist.
Originally published on Sep 01, 2014
