Lifestyle Impacts Health: Embracing a Plant-Based Flex Journey
One’s health is dependent upon one’s choices. How I live my life – including what I eat, what I drink, what I do, and how I think – all impact my overall health and well-being.
A balanced diet and lifestyle equal good health. It's about choices. It's apparent to me that our society is in great need of balance. Each year, the number of obese and sickly people increases, all as a result of our diet and lifestyle. Obesity and disease are not just limited to adults anymore. Our children and teenagers are suffering more now than ever, as a direct result of diet and lifestyle. It's about choices, it's about information, it's about life! Lifestyle impacts health!
According to reliable sources such as the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), diabetes affects an estimated 23.6 million people in the US and is the fifth leading cause of death. Obesity is a major risk factor for a variety of health ailments and diseases, including cardiovascular disease, certain types of cancer, and type 2 diabetes. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) also highlight the significant health impact of lifestyle choices, including obesity rates and related health concerns.
"Energy in" equals "energy out." Both being overweight and being obese are directly related to poor diet and lifestyle, which is all about "energy balance." The purpose behind eating food is not just about flavor and taste but about energizing our bodies by providing the nutrients and fuel needed to function efficiently. Our food choices directly affect our mind and body – what we eat can ultimately heal or hurt.
The best food choice is, of course, whole food. Whole foods are unprocessed and unrefined, typically without added ingredients such as sugar, salt, or fat. Whole foods provide our bodies with the essential nutrients needed to fuel and heal efficiently. Fruits, vegetables, seeds, grains, nuts, sea greens, leafy greens, sprouts, and unprocessed animal-based meats and non-homogenized milk are considered whole foods.
Processed foods, on the other hand, often lack nutritional value and contain additives, flavor enhancers, and chemicals. These foods have a higher ratio of empty calories, leading to weight gain and severe obesity. To improve health and combat obesity, it's vital to reduce the consumption of processed foods and increase the intake of whole raw and living foods.
Hydration is also essential for eliminating disease, fighting obesity, and maintaining overall health and well-being. Water is crucial for survival, and staying hydrated allows our bodies to function optimally. Incorporating whole foods into our diet provides natural hydration, as they are filled with life force energy.
Maintaining balance in our lifestyle is equally important. It includes not only our diet but also how we spend our time, handle stress, rest, and exercise. Proper rest, regular exercise, mental stimulation, and emotional well-being contribute to a healthy lifestyle. When these elements are in check, good health and well-being thrive, while neglecting them can lead to obesity, disease, and negative outcomes.
To embark on the journey to optimal happiness and success, it's essential to focus on what we eat and how we live. Making a commitment to change, taking that first step, and regaining control over our lives are crucial. Let's join together on this Plant-Based Flex journey, drawing insights from credible sources, to embrace a balanced, healthy lifestyle.
Reading Recommendations:
"The Whole-Food Guide to Strong Bones" by Annemarie Colbin
"Whole: Rethinking the Science of Nutrition" by T. Colin Campbell
"In Defense of Food: An Eater's Manifesto" by Michael Pollan
"The China Study: The Most Comprehensive Study of Nutrition Ever Conducted" by T. Colin Campbell and Thomas M. Campbell II
"The Omnivore's Dilemma: A Natural History of Four Meals" by Michael Pollan
Recommended Routine:
Start your day with a glass of water to hydrate your body.
Incorporate whole foods into every meal, focusing on fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, and seeds.
Engage in regular exercise or physical activity to keep your body flexible, strong, and injury-free.
Dedicate time for mental stimulation through reading, interacting, and engaging in activities that stimulate your brain.
Practice stress management techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or engaging in hobbies that bring you joy.
Prioritize rest and relaxation to allow your body to heal and rejuvenate.
Stay hydrated throughout the day by drinking an adequate amount of water.
Continuously educate yourself on nutrition and healthy living, drawing insights from reliable sources, to make informed choices.
Let's take the first step together and regain control of our lives for a healthier and happier future!
Site Sources:
The Plant-Based Flex Lifestyle (www.plantbasedflex.com)
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) (www.niddk.nih.gov)
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) (www.cdc.gov)
World Health Organization (WHO) (www.who.int)
