Whole foods are eaten in their natural form. A tomato, for example, is a whole food, while ketchup is not. Consuming mainly whole foods limits your exposure to additives, preservatives, chemicals, sodium and sugar. It may also help you squeeze more nutrition out of meals, as your body best absorbs nutrients from food. Whole foods also contain certain compounds that may help you better utilize those nutrients. A day’s worth of whole food is satisfying and easy to prepare. Start with a bowl of steel cut oats, which are minimally processed. Add to it fresh milk, blueberries, walnuts and raw honey. Choose unsweetened fresh or frozen berries. Raw walnuts are less processed than those already roasted and salted. Scramble two eggs in olive oil if you need additional calories in the morning.
One of the most powerful steps you can take to improve your health, boost energy levels, and prevent chronic diseases is to move to a plant-based diet. Scientific research highlighted in the landmark book The China Study shows that a plant-based diet can reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, certain types of cancer, and other major illnesses. Many people also report bigger fitness payoffs, more energy, reduced inflammation, and better health outcomes after making the switch. A whole-food, plant-based diet is based on the following principles. A whole-food, plant-based diet lets you meet your nutritional needs by focusing on natural, minimally-processed plant foods. There are plenty of other foods you can also enjoy— including nuts, seeds, tofu, tempeh, whole-grain flour and breads, and plant-based milks. However, we recommend eating these foods in moderation, because they are more calorie-dense and can contribute to weight gain.
Fiber is very important for digestion and gut health, blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol and more. Top you choice of bread with nut butter or tahini and layer with things like sliced apple or banana, seeds. Make homemade mashed potatoes by boiling Yukon golds and, after draining, mashing them with milk and real butter, or serve brown rice or quinoa on the side. Similarly, these are whole foods in their original state. Sometimes it might be amazing plant-based diet recipes and sometimes its throwing leftover veggies and lentils in a bowl. You can add a bit of fresh fruit too if you like. Try skipping the booze tonight or for longer and feel the benefits from better hydrate, better sleep and more. Sweet potato or squash breakfast bowls.