Wherever we go and whatever we do, we are always faced with advertising and the media. Billboards, radio ads, television commercials, magazines and the never ending fast food restaurant on every corner, it’s a wonder how we are making proper food choices.
What we put in our mouth determines how we feel and look and how motivated we are to stay fit.
There are four food categories including carbohydrates, proteins, fats and alcohol. Carbohydrates and proteins have 4 calories per gram, fats have nine calories per gram and beer, wine and distilled liquor have seven calories per gram. The ratio of protein and carbohydrates to fats and alcohol will determine daily food consumption. Limit starchy and simple carbohydrates and focus on vegetable and animal proteins and fruits and vegetables for good nutrition.
Starchy carbohydrates including pastas, gluten breads, potatoes, and corn are considered food drugs. Processed sugars, also known as simple carbohydrates, are food drugs. Chocolate, saturated fats (fried foods), caffeine in coffee or soda pop and diet soda are all food drugs. All of the above are considered food drugs because they create an imbalance in blood chemistry and blood insulin levels. If you are one who consumes some or most of these foods, try to stop. It will be very difficult for about one or two months because your body will go through withdrawals due to detoxification.
The chemical imbalances play havoc on how we feel. These foods promote weight gain, mood swings, bouts of sluggish energy and promote disease. Poor nutrition may result in heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Good nutrition including adequate meat and vegetable protein, carbohydrates in the form of fruits and vegetables and fats in the form of nuts and animal protein will promote energy, weight loss, stamina and longevity.
By staying away from those foods with chemicals, preservatives, fillers and high saturated fat coupled with a proper exercise program, one will achieve the result of optimum health. I suggest to read all food labels and to stay away from boxes and bags and to eat foods from the earth. I wish all of you great success in your quest for health, wellness and fitness. Good luck!