We all need to eat correct? The answer is yes because food provides us with energy and the fuel we need to make it through our busy hectic day. However it’s the types of foods we eat that are the most important. Now I’m not here to push one diet or another because that’s not my style, I’m just here to provide some food for thought. (see what I did there?) I enjoy eating food but I’m also selective in my choices.
So let’s talk about two nutrients that have unfairly gained bad reputations over the years, carbs and fats. You see not all carbs and fats are created equal so treating them as the enemy isn’t completely fair. We need carbs to give us energy or fuel for the body and fats to help strengthen our cells and keep us feeling full. The key here is the different types we choose to eat.
I eat a plant-based diet jam packed with nutrients, vitamins, and fiber. I do this by eating lots of vegetables and whole grains. My carbs of choice are usually oatmeal, brown rice, sweet potato and quinoa. These foods have that all important fiber along with the other nutrients we need in comparison to some other carbs that are full of sugar or lose their nutrients when processed. Fruits and vegetables also contain carbs as well. So when I sit down to eat most of my meal is a heaping pile of vegetables with whole grains as a side, not the center of attention. When we give vegetables a starring role we have the opportunity to eat more food and ones that are delicious and nutritious for us. I’m looking to have sustained energy all day so most of my food needs to be in the form of carbohydrates.
Now Fats are a macronutrient we need the least amount of, but its not as harmful if healthier versions are chosen. I add a spoonful of peanut butter to my oatmeal, avocado on my afternoon salad instead of dressing and I saute my veggies in olive oil. One group of fats that are considered some of the healthiest foods we can eat are, nuts and seeds. These can be thrown on oatmeal for a satisfying carb/fat combo or eaten as an afternoon snack with some fruit. Be mindful of how many you eat though, keeping to about a handful as your serving size.
It can take some thought or planning to incorporate new foods into our diets but the benefits are endless. Remember we aren’t focused on taking food out but instead adding healthier ones in. We all want to feel that extra energy and make those healthier choices. The first step belongs to how we feed our body. So I ask you, what foods can you switch up this week? What healthier versions can you add in? Choose those carbs and fats wisely today.
Wellness Wednesday,
TK
