One of the most common responses I receive when I speak about the importance of a healthy diet is “everything is unhealthy these days, we’re all gonna die anyway”. It’s true that we will all cease to exist one day, and it does often feel as though scientists and doctors are continuously discovering that certain food are unhealthy. However, I believe that the quality of one’s life (a life without or with minimal chronic pain or health issues) is most important.
Just as technology, medicine, and many other things continue to advance and change over time, so does the knowledge and ability to deeply study the effects food has on people’s health immediate and long-term outcomes. Building long-term resilience and vitality is essential to increase lifespan and healthspan, which is not limited to the treatment of diseases alone. A misconception is that increased longevity results in more chronic illnesses and disability that overload society's healthcare system. The reality is daily habits like healthy eating, exercising, stress management, and quality sleep hold the key to unlock your longevity potential, and they are straightforward. Here a few of my favorite brain and body boosting health tips to consider incorporating into your daily life: Below are some healthy habits you can easily integrate into your daily routine: 1. Healthy Fats: Research has shown that seed oils, such as canola oil, are unhealthy and increase inflammation within the body. Incorporating healthy fats such as avocado, olive oil, some nuts, and grass-fed meats and pasture raised eggs (if you’re not vegan) are all very beneficial for mental clarity and overall brain health. 2. Eat Colorful Plants- The Rainbow: Your diet should be less meat heavy and more veggie-dense. Eating a “rainbow” of veggies is one of the best ways to get fiber and the nutrients necessary to support your brain. 3. Move your body: Increase the amount of exercise and/or movement that you’re doing daily. We live in a virtual work where many of us spend more time sitting than standing, stretching or moving. Work on incorporating exercise into your daily routine, even if it’s light movement, yoga, or walking. 4. Get plenty of sleep: Prioritize sleep by aiming for 7-9 hours per night to maintain physical and mental health. 5. Practice mindfulness: Engage in activities that encourage mindfulness, such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises. 6. Minimize or Avoid Processed Sugar and Foods: Products like sugar (including cane sugar), high fructose corn syrup (the worst), preservatives all impact the body negatively, including increasing inflammation, disrupting sleep, brain function, and more. I can write an entire article of the dangers of sugar consumption. • Stronger bones and muscles: Regular exercise and adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D contribute to building and maintaining strong bones and muscles, essential for movement and overall health. [Ife is a Pasadena Native, currently working as a mental health therapist providing therapy to individuals, ages 17-elder adults. She works from a holistic perspective and is passionate about supporting people with their health through food, nutrition, and sound healing.] |
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