Body Beauty II

BODY BEAUTY: VITAMINS & MINERALS
     

When it comes to changing up what we put inside of our bodies, we must forget about the word "dieting" and remember that it's more about a lifestyle change. The term "dieting" has more of a temporary implication in society, and we are looking to make a lifestyle adjustment. In fact, we are aiming for a lifetime of variety and balance as we learn more about the keys to healthier eating. I know that it can be hard to give up your favorite fatty foods, but you don't have to let it all go completely. Remember moderation is the key. So, when you eat something "bad" really enjoy it and don't feel guilty but don't overdo it either. Remember to keep refined, sugary, fatty meals and treats to a minimum.

The body needs many different things to survive and thrive. This includes vitamins, minerals, amino acids, essential fatty acids, plus air, water and light. We must take these items from external sources since our bodies cannot manufacture them by itself. So, in order to obtain the nutrients essential for health and body beauty, our diets need to contain sufficient quantities of high quality, fresh, and unrefined whole foods as possible. We must consider though that many of our fruits and vegetables are flown in from thousands of miles in order to reach our tables and once these fruits and vegetables have been harvested, they can lose up to 50% of their vitamin content in just 10 days! We recommend that you eat locally grown, seasonal and preferable organic foods, whenever possible.

Family, our health depends not only on what we eat, but also on our body's ability to absorb nutrients within the gut. Many of us over forty have digestive problems, me included, often induced by stress and over-consumption of junk foods eaten in a hurry. So, remember, taking your time to chew your food more thoroughly will help to improve absorption, and to eat a little fresh pineapple or papaya, which contain digestive enzymes, with your main meals. You can also take digestive enzyme tablets which are available from all good health food stores.

Vitamins, and minerals and essential fats from our food work synergistically (together) within the body, so you derive greater benefits from eating a variety of wholefoods, rather than taking vitamin pills in isolation. For example, an alfalfa sprout sandwich contains more nutrients than a cheap multi-vitamin tablet. If you did not know, our bodies consist of approximately 63 percent water, 22 percent protein, 13 percent fat and 2 percent vitamins and minerals and for optimum health we need to eat a balance of all the main food types: carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Don't you remember the food pyramid that we learned about when we were in elementary school, it still applies today. We want for you to live your best life every day. One that is free of pain, if possible and encapsulates ultimate beauty from the inside out.