“Learn the difference between ultra-processed and nutrient-rich foods, what nutrition is and why it’s so important, and how it makes a difference for weight loss and energy. Discover practical tips on easy and small changes you can make guiding you to a healthier lifestyle.”

Importance of nutrition

“There are many different areas we can focus on for optimal health. These include nutrition, movement and exercise, as well as mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Genetics also plays a role in our health even before we are born. However, once we are born, nutrition becomes a key factor. Do you realize just how much of an impact nutrition has on our overall health?”

Types of Food

“There are many different types of foods we can eat. Some foods, like junk food, are ultra-processed, meaning they have been broken down and refined to the point where little to no nutrients remain. As a result, we consume foods that may look and taste good but provide no real nourishment or fuel for our bodies and brains. Examples of ultra-processed foods include candy, soda, and sugary cereals.”

“There are whole foods, which are real, nutrient-rich foods that have not been stripped of their natural components. These foods nourish our bodies and brains, helping to prevent chronic illness and disease.”

“Organic foods are grown in soil with little to no pesticide residue. Examples include fruits and vegetables.”

Nutrient-rich foods

“Nutrition is about applying knowledge by choosing the right foods to stay healthy and energetic-not just occasionally, but every day. It means eating nourishing foods that help us feel and perform at our best.”

“There are many different ways to lose weight, and countless diets to follow. But can we stick to a particular diet for the rest of our lives? And what happens when we stop? More often than not, we regain the weight. Instead of following a restrictive diet, why not focus on incorporating the essential nutrient rich foods our bodies need every day?”

“Our bodies need over sixty different types of nutrients each day for optimal health. While restrictive diets and calorie counting can lead to weight loss, a better approach is to focus on eating foods we enjoy while ensuring we get the necessary nutrients our bodies need.”

“It’s important to understand that the nutritional quality of food varies. Did you know that most foods in the grocery store provide little to no real nutritional value? A prime example is ultra-processed foods like sugary cereals, doughnuts, Pop-Tarts, and cookies. Even among vegetables, there are differences in quality. For instance, iceburg lettuce contains far fewer nutrients than spinach.”

“Our overall health is closely linked to weight management. The foods we eat daily, over time, significantly impact our energy levels and metabolism.”

“Metabolism is the engine that keeps our bodies running. The nutrients we consume are broken down to provide energy, support growth, and aid in repair. That’s why it is in our best interest to get the necessary nutrient rich foods for overall health, sustained energy, and effective weight management-not just for losing weight, but for maintaining it as well.”

Healthy Eating Tips

#Add color to your meals.

##Start small.

###Start writing down what you are eating.

“Take a look at your fruits and vegetables. The darker the color, the higher the nutrient content.”

“Some exanples of darker-colored fruits and vegetables include spinach, broccoli, butternut squash, blueberries, raspberries, purple cabbage, sweet potatoes, carrots, black grapes, and Concord grapes, to name a few.”

“Change is never easy, and it takes time. Instead of trying to change everything all at once, focus on making one small change at a time.”

“Keep a notebook and start tracking what you buy at the grocery store, as well as what you eat for meals and snacks each day.”

Let’s Review

“What we eat definitely impacts how we feel and our overall health. It’s easy to enjoy food that looks and tastes good, but is it providing the fuel our bodies need to function properly every day?”

“Ultra-processed foods are so highly refined that they contain little to no nutrient- rich foods to nourish our bodies and brains.”

“Whole foods are foods that have not been altered or processed. They are real, nutrient-rich foods that nourish and fuel our bodies.”

“We need over sixty different types of nutrients each day to support our health and energy. It’s important to start making small changes in how we eat and the foods we buy to reap the full benefits of optimal health.”

“I invite you to share your thoughts or questions in the comments.”