Food as Medicine
Food plays a major role in promoting health as well as preventing and treating disease, it also has a huge impact on mental health.
Food as medicine is an approach that recognizes the healing and preventive properties of certain foods in promoting health and well-being. Incorporating specific foods into one's diet can have a positive impact on various health conditions and chronic diseases. Research has shown that dietary interventions have the potential to treat a wide range of health issues, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and obesity. The concept of using food as medicine emphasizes the importance of choosing nutritious foods that nourish and protect the body. It is worth mentioning that not all health conditions can be treated solely with food, and it is essential to consult with healthcare professionals for proper diagnosis and treatment.
They have been plenty of studies recently about the benefits of fasting and regulated meal timing being beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes.
Most of us have heard about the benefits of ginger, lemon juice and honey for coughs and colds, add a few extra herbs such as echinacea, fenugreek and fennels seeds and you get a much stronger remedy.
The idea of "food as medicine" has been around for centuries, but it's gaining new traction as we learn more about the link between diet and health. It's not about replacing conventional medicine with kale smoothies, but rather recognizing the powerful role that food can play in preventing, managing, and even treating chronic diseases.
Here are some ways that food can act as medicine:
Providing essential nutrients: Our bodies need a variety of nutrients to function properly. Eating a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help ensure we're getting the nutrients we need to stay healthy.
Reducing inflammation: Chronic inflammation is a major risk factor for many diseases, including heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer's disease. Certain foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and oily fish, can help reduce inflammation.
Improving gut health: A healthy gut microbiome is essential for overall health. Eating probiotic-rich foods, such as yogurt and kimchi, can help promote a healthy gut balance.
Boosting the immune system: A strong immune system helps us fight off infection and disease. Eating a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help boost the immune system.
Of course, it's important to remember that food is not a magic bullet. A healthy diet is just one part of a healthy lifestyle. Other important factors include regular exercise, getting enough sleep, and managing stress.
Here are some specific examples of how food can be used to treat or manage certain conditions:
Heart disease: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fish can help lower blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Diabetes: Eating a healthy diet can help control blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of complications from diabetes.
Cancer: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help reduce the risk of cancer. Certain foods, such as cruciferous vegetables and berries, may also have anti-cancer properties.
Alzheimer's disease: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may help protect against cognitive decline and reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease.
If you're interested in learning more about how food can be used to improve your health, talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian. They can help you create a personalized eating plan that meets your individual needs and goals.
Here are some additional tips for using food as medicine:
Focus on whole, unprocessed foods.
Eat a variety of colours from the plant kingdom.
Limit your intake of processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats.
Cook more meals at home.
Make small changes to your diet over time.
Remember, even small changes can make a big difference in your health. By making healthy food choices, you can take control of your health and reduce your risk of chronic disease.
Healthy fruits with low sugar
Fruit contains two types of sugar: fructose and glucose. The proportions of each vary, but most fruits are about half glucose and half fructose. Glucose raises blood sugar, so the body must use insulin to metabolize it. Fructose does not raise blood sugar.
Strawberries. Strawberries, like many other berries, are often high in fiber and contain very little sugar.
Although peaches taste sweet, a medium sized peach only contains around 13g of sugar.
The charts below are a great source of information and a handy reference.
They can be purchased from Made Whole Nutrition for $16, click on images to go to the website.
PLEASE NOTE: I receive no money or benefits from anything recommended on my website
