I grew up in the country where it was normal to have a vegetable garden. Everyone had one, even our family. As a kid, I would dread the chore of having to weed it, or even pick a basket of fresh beans for supper, it just seemed so unreasonable. Now, looking back - man I had it good. Eating fresh beets coated with melted butter - omg c'mon, it's HEAVEN! I certainly lived the whole "farm to table" vibe before it was a vibe. Making the right choices when it came to food was ingrained in me from an early age, which just seems so natural to me now. Our weekly grocery shop represents 70 percent fresh produce, and the rest dairy, grains and a bit of meat.
Lifestyle eating is very much a way of eating with a long term approach to nutrition, focusing on sustainable habits rather than short-term diets or restrictive eating patterns. It is tailored for lifestyle preferences and health goals and precisely my approach to my everyday happiness and wellness. I'm not willing to diet at the expense of pleasure. In my book, being able to enjoy delicious food, and feeling great is all that matters. Hold on though, you can't go for broke, and just eat whatever you want regardless of the outcome. Certainly not what I am saying. Cleverly omitting some bad fats and sugars, can still allow you to love your food, but the concept of dieting to omit everything I love to eat, isn't something I am willing to get behind.
Let's Talk H20.
Funny enough, when spending the weekend with some family recently, we got talking about eating healthy, and the overall confession of the group was that they didn't drink enough water. Some drank a couple of glasses, others had a cups worth in the morning and that was it for the day. If you are experiencing a lack of energy, feeling cloudy and can't focus, and you hit that afternoon slump - chances are you are not drinking enough water. I was that person too - never taking the time to drink water for fear of being in the bathroom all the time - who has time for that? I found a cute, pink water bottle that I love, and I can safely say, I fill it up at least 3 times in a day. I guess that's the trick. Find something you like to drink from, that is portable, and of course CUTE! It really works. Another option is flavored water, but not your commercially flavored water. You can soak tea bags, basil, fruit overnight to infuse some fresh flavors come the morning. Then, mama, you're rocking it out with delicious hydration!
Here are some great variations:
Cucumber, Lime, and Mint
Cucumber
Watermelon and Mint
Strawberry and Basil
Raspberry and Lemon
Watermelon and Raspberry
Orange and Mint
Presenting Your Food.
When we have guest over, there is careful preparation for the meal but also in the presentation. Why do we go out all out for our guest, but not for ourselves? Supporting the notion that plating your food beautifully and thoughtfully, even if you're only a party of one, can make the meal more appetizing and enjoyable. Consider a little switcheroo to a linen napkin from the paper ones. Even this, can elevate your dining experience. Simple little swaps and a touch more effort in the presentation, can bring much more joy to the meal.
Sugar.
Adding less sugar, or omitting it where you can - can make you feel brighter and less sluggish. This doesn't mean cutting out all carbs all together, (cause my pasta isn't going anywhere) just limiting the sugar where you can. It is important to note that while natural sugars can be part of a healthy diet, they should still be consumed in moderation, particularly for individuals who need to manage their blood sugar levels.
Seasonal Produce.
I love a good farmer's market, and I am very grateful to have many to choose from in our area. Farmer's markets often offer produce that is freshly harvested, sometimes picked just hours before being sold. This freshness can enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the fruits and vegetables. Just the thought of fresh vegetables, makes my mouth water. Thus, I will see you there this summer mulling about at our local markets? I'll be the one with the large brimmed hat and cute market fresh bags, be sure to say hey!
By taking care of your body, but also loving the relationship you have with food, you are committing to a longer, healthier and more fulfilled life.
Love
Tracy x