When it comes to trying to improve our health, it can be difficult to know what kind of nutrition we should be aiming for. However, many experts agree that developing a holistic nutrition plan is essential to long-term health and well-being. Holistic nutrition refers to a way of eating and living that respects our connection to the environment, our bodies, and our minds. With this comprehensive approach to health, you can nourish your whole system—body, mind, and spirit.
Holistic nutrition begins by understanding the basics of nutrition—what our bodies need in terms of certain nutrients and vitamins. It takes these more traditional concepts of health and expands them to include much more. A holistic nutrition plan considers a wide range of factors including lifestyle, environment, relationships, and attitude.
The foundation of a holistic nutrition plan is creating balanced meals that provide the right combination of macronutrients. This means eating a variety of plant-based foods, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds, as well as minimal amounts of quality fats and proteins. Whole grains, legumes, and dairy products may also be included.
In holistic nutrition, it’s important to eat foods that are as close to their natural state as possible. Consume organic whenever you can to avoid potential toxins and choose organic dairy products for their higher nutrient content. Limit or avoid highly processed and refined foods which can strip the body of vital nutrients. We should also be aware of pesticides, additives, hormones, and other potential toxins in our food and water.
In addition to considering the makeup of our meals, it is also helpful to think about the emotional and psychological aspects of eating. Making conscious decisions about what we eat can help us develop a healthier relationship with food.
Being mindful when we’re eating can help us pay attention to our hunger signals and recognize when we’re full. This can go a long way toward helping prevent us from overeating, as well as developing an unhealthy relationship with food.
In addition to proper nutrition, holistic health requires regular physical activity and caring for ourselves mentally and spiritually.
This can involve getting regular exercise, meditating, or getting involved in a spiritual practice. Physical activity doesn’t need to be a burden; it can be as simple as taking a walk in your neighborhood or even doing some simple stretches at home.
The goal of holistic nutrition is to create balance in our lives and to recognize our connection with the environment and the world around us. Investing in our own well-being can help us become more balanced and fulfilled. Making conscious decisions about our nutrition as well as our physical, mental, and spiritual health can help us live a more nourishing life.