Food choices, inflammation and chronic disease
We all know the connection between the quantity and quality of the food we eat and our body composition. But did you know that the food we eat directly impacts our health? From short term discomfort in the stomach, to long term diseases like eczema, joint pain, bloating and heartburn.
Some foods promote healing while other foods promote disease.
Highly processed foods like cold cuts, hot dogs, and hamburgers. Foods that are high in sugar and salt. Foods that are way far from their original form to be called food. These are all foods that promote disease and increase the risk for developing chronic disease including: heart disease, diabetes, cancer, hypertension, CVD.
Foods that are considered healing are wholesome foods like fruits, berries, vegetables, green leafs, herbs, whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds.
When it comes to food choices, there is no one diet that fits all. Joshua Rosenthal, the founder and director of the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, a holistic nutrition school based in New York City, calls it Bio-individuality. It means that a certain food that is healing for one person might be harmful for another. We all agree that we need to eat more wholesome foods and less processed foods. But you are the only one who knows what is best for you.
Some people have developed sensitivities to certain foods and might not be aware of it.
If you feel bloated all the time, have unexplained skin rashes, joint pain, stuffy nose and phlegm, you might have food sensitivity. It is worth consulting a healthcare professional to eliminate that option.
Our food choices have a long term effect on our health. Many chronic diseases symptoms can be eased and even be eliminated with the correct food choices.
Four things to keep in mind to optimise your health and reduce risk for chronic disease:
- Maintain a healthful weight throughout life
- Adopt physically active lifestyle
- Eat healthy diet, with an emphasis on plant sources
- Consume alcohol in moderation
I’m here for any questions and consultations.
Yael