That may seem like an odd thing, but one of our biggest problems is that we do not know how to eat. Eating is not only the act of putting food into our mouths and chewing, but it is the act of choosing wisely before it gets to our mouths.
We eat for the purpose of nourishing our bodies. This nourishment provides much needed health that can actually stave off disease if done well and consistently. Of course, there is no guarantee, but I can tell you that you will FEEL great.
So what is clean eating? Clean eating is eating pure, whole food; not food with chemicals, dyes, preservatives, etc. It is clean- in its purest form. For example, if you are eating leafy greens, organic and eaten uncooked is best. You get more nutrients this way and organic eliminates the use of chemicals (make sure it is certified pure organic). That would make it clean!
Let’s look at it this way. If we KNOW that an organic sweet potato will give us beta carotene, vitamin B6, vitamin C, fiber and potassium, why would we eat the McDonald’s fries that give us nothing? These are fries that will not even mold because of the number of chemicals they are coated with to ensure they never rot. Think about it again. McDonald’s fries are NOT CLEAN.
I simply want to encourage mindful eating. For some, it can start immediately with every food choice but for others, it may take time. And that is fine. You just have to start somewhere, making conscious decisions as you live your life day to day. You may need prayers along the way. Do it. Ask for help as often as you need to. I sure do!
Here is a good first step: If you were to choose 3 meals a week that had plenty of raw vegetables, nuts and seeds, that would be a huge start! Pay attention to how you feel each time. Make sure you are aware of every ingredient (like the dressing- better to make your own)!
I promise you that, with practice, you will not want those McDonald’s fries.
Let me know how you feel.
Kyra Oliver is a health enthusiast and educator, dedicated marathon runner, and Ironman triathlete, as well as a marketing and brand expert, inventive cook, and philanthropist. As a coach and certified fitness instructor, Kyra enjoys sharing her passion for physical fitness with others in her community. She is a fitness instructor and coaches for individuals as well as groups to include non-profit organizations in New York and New Jersey, leading them to accomplish their dreams of completing running races while raising money to support their cause. Kyra has won numerous awards to include the national Stevie Award and founded her own non-profit, The Hayes Foundation, to raise awareness and reduce the risk of SUIDS. Kyra has her own wellness business that can be found at www.yourownutopia.com and is a wellness ambassador for Dr. Josh Axe, a nationally known wellness educator and former radio personality.
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