The basic theory for a healthful diet is not what to eat but how to eat. We should not eat everything we like. We should take essential and healthful nutrients to our body in time. One of the reasons that salads with lots of greens are so beneficial is because they are eaten raw. Eating our fruits and vegetables in their natural state allows the body to receive more enzymes, vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients that are usually destroyed by cooking and processing. Although eating cooked veggies is sometimes okay, the living phytonutrients and natural enzymes aid in human digestion and promote better overall health. Another added bonus to eating fresh produce is a decrease in the amount of salt and sugar consumed.
Most of us have heard that it is okay to eat as much fresh fruit as we can, but frankly, eating too much fruit has its effects as well. It can overload the liver’s sugar content and can trigger carbohydrate cravings, which in the long run affects our fat levels. One to two fresh fruit servings are recommended. The best fruits are apples, pears, melons and berries, as they have lower sugar levels and higher fiber levels than most other fruits.
The following is a daily fruit and vegetable recommendation guide:
7-9 servings daily or more of phytonutrient and vitamin rich foods. Example: 1 cup raw vegetable salad, ½ cup vegetables or fruits, ½ cup dark green and yellow veggies, ¼ cup dried fruit.
Remember, proper nutrition is the foundation of good health and recovery. What you put into your mouth is going to be used to generate your cells, tissues, blood, nerves, and bones, etc., of tomorrow! Healthy eating!
For more information please contact Dr. Silva’s web site at www.findabundantlife.com.
Dr. Lisa Silva
