Is it really that simple?
In our first article we discussed the rising incidence of obesity and the subsequent health hazards. Today we will discuss a few tips on implementing a change in one’s lifestyle.
Food processing has led to a number of changes that have occurred in the human diet. This, in turn, has also led to an increase in the glycemic nature of foods, having a subsequent impact on inflammation and disease.
**Note**
Classification and Examples
- Low GI - Most fruits, vegetables, legumes, and nuts
- High GI - White bread, most white rice, corn flakes, and other processed foods
In review, high glycemic food leads TO A RAPID INCREASE IN blood sugar. This rapid rise in blood sugar then leads to the release of insulin from the pancreas. Processed foods are loaded with simple carbohydrates, which over time, may impact the ability of the pancreas to stimulate insulin. This then reduces the sensitivity of the cellular insulin receptors to respond to these rises in blood sugar. For example: When you first put on your earrings in the morning, you may feel the weight of them. As the day goes on, you may not even notice that you ARE wearing earrings. Why is this so? Constant irritation causes insensitivity. In the same way, a constant intake of high glycemic foods will cause an insensitivity of your cells to insulin.
Why is this a concern?
Maintaining healthy blood sugar leads to metabolic balance throughout the day, which is essential for good health. Metabolic balance, or healthy blood sugar levels, supports the following:
- Energy Levels
- Weight Loss
- Loss of Body Fat
- Good Cholesterol
- Overall Improvement in Cardiovascular Health
- Optimization of the Nervous System
A lifestyle change requires putting into action the three P's
- Priority
- Planning
- Persistence
A lifestyle change requires making your health a priority. So many people, especially women, are caregivers for everyone but themselves. Taking time to put your health higher on your priority list will lead to a longer and higher quality of life. A lifestyle change definitely requires planning and preparation. Diet is fundamental to good health, yet few Americans really spend much thought or time on preparation of meals. It is so easy to fall prey to the conveniences of modern life with its physical inactivity, fast pace and reliance on foods providing a temporary sensory gratification, rather than using food for fuel. Simple changes and a change in mindset can help to achieve and maintain good health, with improved energy levels as well.
Hear are some key principles leading to health for life:
- Eat a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables; introduce your family to new types of food. Learn the history and medicinal qualities of food.
- Reduce your exposure to pesticides
- Eat to regulate your blood sugar and metabolic balance (consume low glycemic foods) foods that are complex and require your body to break down the food, rather than processed foods where the work has been done by the factory.
- Moderate amount of meat and animal foods
- Eat healthy fats-Olive, grape seed, and Coconut oil
- Drink half your body weight in water and eliminate sodas and artificial sweeteners
Lastly, have persistence in making healthy choices and then you will realize the lifetime gain from making HEALTH A CHOICE FOR LIFE!
"The First Wealth is Health" - Ralph Waldo Emerson
Until next time....
