As part of my well lived life I made some food rules for me and my family to follow! These are not at all set in stone and I am still researching playing on the internet looking for more recipes and ideas. But so far- here it goes:
1. Cut out white sugar. My husband and I feel that through our research sugar is public enemy #1. I’m also switching to stevia and trying to cut out HFCS and artificial sweeteners as well.
2. Cut out white flour. White flour has been stripped of any nutritional value and goodness.
3. Food without labels. I want to know where my food comes from (not a lab). Basically this rule is trying to cut out all processed foods (especially highly processed ones.
4. Increased fiber. (it’s good for you).
5. Water water everywhere. I’m working on switching to almost all water (have already cut out soda and most coffee). I do have the occasional daily green or herbal teas.
6. Local when possible, organic when feasible. (farmers market, our own garden, beef from family farm). I’m already planning my own square foot gardens for planting!!
7. Fresh fruits and veggies (more more more) I know we don’t eat as many veggies as we should. I have started tinkering with green smoothies and we’re throwing around the idea of a juicer to help with this one (see #4- my boys could use the fiber).
8. Add fish. I’ve never been one to make fish at home but we’ve played some on the grill and I’m really digging it. Trying to add wild caught omega 3 rich fish to meals once a week.
9. Healthy fats. I’ve started cooking with coconut oil and really like it. I’m planning to try more dishes with it and avocado and olive oil. I’m eliminating corn/canola oils.
10. Balanced carb/protein with each meal. (this rule just recently got amended to this: I’m thinking paleo). I do not want to jump on another food bandwagon but I’m starting to recognize that grains don’t make me feel well. Same with dairy (and I’m concerned about all the hormones in dairy). So this rule is for myself- I’m thinking about cutting grains/dairy (for myself only) and see if I feel better.
Honestly- that is what this whole list is about- BETTER EATING FOR BETTER LIVING. I recognized that it’s not a well lived life if I’m not feeling good.
I’m so excited on the feedback I’ve gotten so far from this journey…I’d love to hear what food rules you’ve created for your own well lived live.
I’m linking up with:
Disclaimer: I am sharing these rules as my own personal journey towards wellness. Do not substitute these rules for real medical advice. I am not an expert on nutrition- I’m just learning as I go!!!
{ 14 comments… read them below or add one }
Awesome list!! GREAT goals!!! You go girl! I’m so glad you have joined the challenge – I need to print this list for myself too – it’s perfect!!!
Press on sista!
Lots of Love,
Courtney
Thx Courtney! You’re new challenge is pairing perfectly with my new vision for this blog! Excited to join with you!!
Loving your rules- better eating for better living!
I’m right here with ya. Except for the fish part. Just don’t think I can stomach that.
Way to go,sister!! You inspire me.
It has been such an honor to walk beside you during your time of refining. (pun intended. *snort*) I love your list. I think it is so attainable, and that you will really feel more– connected with the process, since you are being so mindful of it.
I am proud of you!!
*hugs*
I think your list is great – but am curious about your choice to incorporate stevia while trying to get rid of all other processed items. (I’m not familiar with it, but am not typically a fan of any “man-made” sugar substitute.)
Don’t know if you’ve read it or not – but a book I’ve just started (and am finding VERY interesting) is called “Why Women Need Fat” – and it highlights much the same things that you’re talking about in your post above. Thought you might be interested.
Looking forward to following your journey with this!
Thanks Julie- I’ve pretty much decide stevia is about the most natural form of “artificial” sweetener I can handle. I still use honey in hot tea. Haven’t researched agave nectar too much either.
I’ll look into that book! I’m all over researching this stuff!!
This is a great list. Thank you for sharing!
I’ve done Paleo and it made me feel tons better and there are TONS of recipes on Pinterest for it too. Let me know what you think!
Love these rules! I think the journey to wellness is something we all have to figure out for ourselves, and can take some tweaking for each individual.
Good tips on diet. You might enjoy reading 8 Weeks to Optimum Health by Andrew Weil; he goes through the various health changes (many that you’ve mentioned) and ways to do them over a period of time that won’t leave you wanting to raid the next donut shop or candy aisle you see.
Keep up the good work!
These are great rules. I need to reincorporate many of them into my diet.
I should really do a lot of these!
Have you been working on them? Are you noticing a difference in how you feel?
Yes!! I’ve even taken it a small step further by trying paleo and I’m so pleased with how I feel!!!
I’ve been meaning to read your ten food rules. Finally did! I’m glad that you are taking proactive steps in a healthier you & healthier family. We eliminate grains as well for the most part, and my system is definitely easier when I do. I pray that you would find a balance with it all and long-lasting results.
{ 2 trackbacks }