One of the most important adjustment to make on your health journey is to make better food choices. Allow your food to nourish you, and you will thrive. Eliminate toxic and factory produced foods, and you will keep dis-ease at bay. Food is not just sustenance but a critical element in maintaining balance and vitality in the body. The foods we choose can either harmonize or disrupt our natural equilibrium. While there are countless foods that can benefit your health, there are also several that can have a detrimental impact. Here are five foods that you should eliminate from your diet for the sake of your health and overall well-being - and the future of our planet.
1. Canned Tuna
Canned tuna may seem like a convenient and healthy choice, but it comes with some hidden dangers. Most canned foods are packaged in aluminum, which can lead to the toxic buildup of this heavy metal in your body, even if the lining is considered safe. Additionally, the production of aluminum is harmful to the environment. Canned tuna is sourced from big sea fisheries, contributing to environmental imbalances and ocean pollution. Furthermore, tuna contains heavy metals like mercury, which can not only be harmful but toxic to the human body. Choose fresh, sustainably & ethically sourced fish or seafood, or other non-processed protein options. Stay tuned for an informational blog on the health benefits vs. risks on fish & seafood coming soon. There is one-for-all diet or way of living that's sustainable.
2. Artificial Sweeteners
Artificial sweeteners are misleadingly used as a guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet tooth. However, these sugar substitutes can be poisonous to your body. They're also found in a variety of foods marketed as sugar-free, and can wreak havoc on your health. The body's natural preference is for what is found in foods that grow naturally.
3. Sugar
Refined sugar, and even natural sugars if consumed in excess can be detrimental to brain health and lead to inflammation. Sugar consumption has been associated with inflammation, which is a common underlying factor in various chronic diseases, including cancer, Alzheimer's, and cardiovascular diseases. Furthermore, excessive sugar intake can lead to insulin resistance, a condition where the body's cells no longer respond effectively to insulin, potentially leading to diabetes. It's crucial to read food labels and be aware of what you're putting into your body. Fructose, naturally found in fruit, can be beneficial for most if eaten in moderation. If you need to sweeten your dishes, opt for natural alternatives like fruit or raw honey, which come with added benefits such as vitamins and antioxidants. Stevia is made from plants, and also a better choice for your brain, if consumed in moderation. It can be helpful for those who need time for the transition away from sugar.
4. Seed Oils: Inflammation Culprit
Seed oils, such as soybean, sunflower, sunflower, canola, grape seed, peanut and corn oil, among others can be a major source of inflammation in the brain. Your cell membranes are made of the oils we eat and seed oils cause us to have unstable cell membranes causing extra oxidative stressors and can damage your mitochondrial DNA. They attached to the brain cells, and while there are more reasons to avoid them, the inflammatory effects are reason enough to make a switch. Opt for healthier alternatives like olive oil, coconut oil, and avocado oil, which not only provide better fats but also cause less oxidative damage.
5. Soy and Tofu
Concerns regarding health revolve around the potential for soy to disrupt hormonal balance due to the presence of compounds called phytoestrogens. In addition, genetically modified soy crops and pesticide use present serious health risks, and in some regions, the cultivation of genetically modified soybeans is prevalent - these crops are engineered to be resistant to herbicides like glyphosate. While this can simplify weed control, it has led to the increased use of glyphosate-based herbicides, which have been linked to health and environmental risks. Pesticides and herbicides are often applied to soy crops in large quantities to control pests and weeds. Soy production has also been linked to deforestation, and vast swaths of land are cleared to make way for soybean cultivation. Large-scale soy farming leads to soil degradation and water pollution due to the heavy use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. The monoculture practices associated with soy farming may also reduce biodiversity and harm local ecosystems. Soy production has been associated with the extensive use of chemicals, which further exacerbates the environmental concerns. The overuse of these chemicals can have detrimental effects on local ecosystems, leading to soil and water contamination, as well as harming other species. Particularly the production of soy in Asia has been criticized for the lack of stringent regulations and monitoring when it comes to chemical usage, potentially posing health risks to both agricultural workers and nearby communities. The inadequate management of chemical residues in soybean farming can have long-lasting consequences for the environment and human health.
6. All Packaged Foods: The Hidden Dangers
Packaged foods, despite their convenience, come with hidden dangers. Microplastics can find their way into these products which we then consume. While we may be able to recycle or properly dispose packaging in some countries, we are still contributing to the production, keeping in mind plastic in most countries ulitmately ends up in the ocean. Many packaged foods are loaded with preservatives and artificial additives, and lacking essential nutrients. These foreign substances can cause inflammation and disrupt the body's equilibrium, potentially leading to diseases, including cancer. While transitioning away from packaged foods may seem challenging initially, it becomes easier over time with personalized adjustments. With time, you'll develop the ability to identify toxic ingredients by taste alone.
The Solution
For optimal health, eat foods in their most natural state. Shopping at farmers markets, and prepareing your own food, or even growing your own food is is essential for maintaining good health. By eliminating the biggest offenders, we can make a big step forward on our journey towards health and balance, and significantly reduce the risks of toxins causing inflammation and other serious health concerns. Choosing fresh, natural, and minimally processed alternatives supports our overall well-being and contributes to a healthier planet. The body is the temple of your soul, let's appreciate it and care for it.
