When it comes to healthy eating, nutrition advice can feel overwhelming. New diet trends and superfoods may catch our attention for a bit, only to disappear when the next trend comes along. However, there are two questions we can all reliably count on to make meaningful, healthful changes in our lives:
- “What am I eating?”
- How am I eating it?
What We Eat: The Importance of Real Food
One of the most effective ways to improve overall health is to focus on eating real food. Real foods are whole, minimally processed, and close to their natural form. If you can easily pronounce and recognize the ingredients listed on the label, it’s likely a better choice for your body.
Whole foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, meat, fish and eggs provide essential nutrients that support digestive health, energy levels, immune function, and disease prevention. Processed foods, on the other hand, often contain added sugars, refined carbohydrates, artificial ingredients, and preservatives that can contribute to chronic inflammation in the body.
Making small, consistent improvements over time to include more real food in your diet by paying more attention to labels, cooking at home more often, and choosing fresh ingredients when possible are foundational for improving our overall health.
How We Eat: Mindful Eating and Digestion
What is almost as important as food choices is the way we consume our meals. Eating quickly, multitasking, or eating under stress can interfere with both digestion and satisfaction.
Chewing food thoroughly is a simple habit that supports digestive enzymes and improves nutrient absorption. Digestion begins in the mouth, and slowing down and chewing food well allows the body to do its job more effectively.
Mindful eating also helps us develop intuitive eating skills. Paying attention to organoleptics, which refers to how we experience food through our senses (taste, smell, texture, appearance, and even sound) is one of the best ways to do this. These sensory signals provide a greater sense of connection to food that we are eating. Over time, you may notice that certain foods feel nourishing and satisfying, while others leave you feeling sluggish or uncomfortable. Developing this awareness builds trust in your ability to know what food is right for you.
Eating meals with family or friends can further improve mindful eating. It’s recommended to eat at least one meal a day with a friend or loved one to help slow the pace of eating, support digestion, and create a more enjoyable, connected experience around food.
If you want support around mindful eating habits, feel free to call and schedule an appointment today!
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Meet Dr. Nelson
Sarah Nelson is a naturopathic doctor dedicated to the science and art of healing, as well treating the whole you. She works closely with the mind-body connection, and believes the most effective treatments include the integration of her patients’ physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Her approach is both curious and nonjudgmental in nature.
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Nelson, call 503-956-9396 or contact us now to schedule an appointment today.
