“Let Food be thy Medicine”

“Let food be thy medicine, and let medicine be thy food,” the great Hippocrates once said. Healthy eating does sound like a great idea but how do we make it work?

Here are 5 simple questions for a healthier mealtime:

1. Did it come from a box? Processed foods can be convenient and sometimes cheaper, but at what cost. Foods that are processed can have fewer vitamins and minerals as they are lost during processing. Boxed foods often contain preservatives and additives which can lead to many adverse health issues.
2. Is it naturally colorful? Fruits and vegetables can be richly colored by a pigment called lycopene. Lycopene is an antioxidant that can reduce the risk of cancer and keep your heart healthy.
3. Are you thirsty? Make sure you are drinking enough water every day, the average rule of thumb is 8 glasses a day.
4. Did you prepare? A lot of poor food choices are made when hunger rises. If you plan ahead, you can avoid this mistake. You can bring your lunch to work. If you know you will be hungry on a trip, pack healthy snacks. If you will be arriving home late a few days a week, try meal planning on your days off.
5. Was it a special occasion? The last tip is about moderation You have worked hard and started planning your meals, but this weekend you have a celebration you are looking forward to. Treats in moderation are acceptable in most dietary situations.

Hopefully, these 5 simple tips can help you with your transition to healthier eating. These tips are generalized for overall health and wellness. Each specific person may have limitations while reaching their health goals. Please remember to consult your dietitian or physician if you feel any of these tips may not follow their specific guidelines for you.