In a world where fad diets and quick-fix solutions dominate the conversation about health, there's a simple yet powerful concept that often gets overlooked: wholefoods.
So why should wholefoods be at the forefront of your dietary choices, and what exactly does this mean for your health and wellbeing ?
What are wholefoods?
Simply put, they are foods that are as close to their natural state as possible, free from processing and refinement.
Fresh fruits and vegetables, whole unrefined grains, nuts, seeds & legumes, wild caught fish/seafood and grass fed/pasture raised meats. These foods are not only nutrient dense but also rich in fibre, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants – all essential components for optimal health.
Why should you prioritise wholefoods in your diet?
The answer lies in their profound impact on your overall wellbeing.
Unlike processed foods which are highly refined and are a major contributor to inflammatory health conditions due to the presence of additives, preservatives and empty calories, wholefoods on the other hand, nourish your body from the inside out.(check out my most recent post on inflammatory food choices here),
Wholefoods provide sustained energy, support digestion, promote healthy weight management, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
In clinic, I've witnessed first hand the transformative power of wholefoods in my clients' lives. By incorporating wholefoods into their diet, they experience increased energy, improved mood, enhanced cognitive function, and a strengthened immune system.
Wholefoods are not just about physical health; they contribute to mental and emotional wellbeing as well.
Research continues to show the effect our diet has on our mental health, and that diets high in processed foods have the ability to exacerbate certain mental health conditions, and can also lead to cognitive decline.
Embracing wholefoods is not about restriction or deprivation; it's about abundance and variety. There's a vast array of delicious and nutritious wholefoods to explore, from robust salads and hearty soups to wholesome poke bowls and satiating desserts, snacks and smoothies. By experimenting with different ingredients and recipes, you can discover new nourishing flavours that really satisfy.
In a culture obsessed with convenience and instant gratification, it's easy to overlook the simple pleasures and profound benefits of wholefoods. But as a clinical nutritionist, I encourage you to prioritise these nutrient rich gems in your diet. Start by incorporating more wholefoods into your meals, and savouring the vibrant flavours. Your body and mind will thank you for it.
You might even find your energy begins to improve as well!
Join me over at my website for nourishing eats and mealtime inspiration, including my collection of wholefood recipes, fit for every season and every budget:
If you'd like to learn which foods you should be focusing on to better manage a health condition, or optimise your overall health, schedule in your online appointment here.
Yours in HEAL.T.H
Maryssa
References
Oneill E, 2024, Psychology Today "We Are What We Eat: Ultra-Processed Foods and Mental Health" , viewed 17 Feb 2024, https://www.psychologytoday.com/au/blog/from-addiction-to-recovery/202312/we-are-what-we-eat-ultra-processed-foods-and-mental-health
Hechtman, L 2019, Clinical Naturopathic Medicine (2nd edition), Elsevier, Australia
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