Holistic
Holistic Nutrition – Understanding the Basics
Do you know what you put into you shopping trolley when you are in the food section of the supermarket has an effect on all aspects of your health? It is key that you consider the effect of each food item to your body. Holistic nutrition takes cognizance of the fact that the right foods can stop the occurrence of conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and even cancer. Understanding what the holistic approach to nutrition is indeed the first step to a healthier you.
Holistic nutrition is the intake of a balance diet of proteins, vitamins, minerals and other nutrients to enable our bodies operate at their best for overall physical, mental and emotional health. The amount nutrients needed by the body vary form one individual to the next therefore holistic nutrition is therefore individualized.
The benefits of Holistic food are
• They provide the body, mind and spirit with nourishment and balance.
• They build up the body’s immune system preventing chronic illnesses
• They contain medicinal properties that have rejuvenating and healing properties.
What are considered to be holistic foods? Fresh vegetables and fruits, whole grains, fish and fowl, herbal teas and fresh made juices. These and other holistic foods can be found at your local health food store. Some of the large supermarket chains even have a natural food section that stocks holistic foods and products. Apart from just purchasing holistic foods, you should also look out for cookbook or take holistic cooking classes for effective preparation of these holistic foods.
Holistic nutrition advocates for the use of the following oils in preparation of holistic foods, sesame seed oil, sunflower seed oil, hemp seed oil, and safflower seed oil which contain Linoleic acid and hemp seed oil, organic soybean oil, flax seed oil, and ground flax seeds which have Alpha Linoleic.
Holistic nutrition advocates for freshly cooked or prepared foods since they give higher energy level (chi) left over or previously prepared food. Holistic food need to be served warm or hot because a this temperature they are easily digested. The same applies to holistic drinks and beverages these should be served hot since this helps speed up the digestion process.
Holistic nutrition encourages the consumption foods that contain probiotics, good bacterial that enhances the health of the intestinal tract. These can be found in pickles, miso, sauerkraut, yogurt, beer or wine. A healthy tract ensures good digestion and consequently excellent overall health.
Your Holistic Nutritional plan should:
• Contain foods that are Organic. Foods with additives and preservatives as well as junk foods should be avoided.
• Contain filtered pure water in adequate amount. One can never drink too much water.
• Tackle any nutritional deficiencies that one may have and take into consideration any food allergies.
• Have holistic foods these are those that can be eaten in their natural state for the most part. Avoid preparing your food in the microwave.
• Exclude genetically modified foods, sugar and caffeine.
When considering a switch to holistic nutrition you should seek the advice of a medical practitioner especially if you have any pre existing disease or conditions. A holistic nutritionist can help you come up with the right and a realistic holistic nutritional plan.
Make the changes from your normal diet to a holistic nutritional plan gradual, that way you will be able to notice the changes and see the benefits of the holistic plan on you body.
