Dietary Guidelines For Optimal Health
I have never been an advocate of “diets”. The word itself can breed anxiety in many people and has the connotation of being difficult and unsustainable. There is no single “diet” that is perfect for everyone. Unique genetic makeups, metabolic individuality, and varying conditions and allergies are always considered when nutrition planning for patients. There are some basic guidelines, however, that I feel everyone can benefit from. This list, compiled by Jill Nienhiser of the Weston A. Price Foundation, is the best that I have come across so far. Implementing these dietary strategies into your lifestyle is a great first step towards optimal health.
- Eat whole, natural foods.
- Eat only foods that will spoil, but eat them before they do.
- Eat naturally-raised meat including fish, seafood, poultry, beef, lamb, game, organ meats and eggs.
- Eat whole, naturally-produced milk products from pasture-fed cows, preferably raw and/or fermented, such as whole yogurt, cultured butter, whole cheeses and fresh and sour cream.
- Use only traditional fats and oils including butter and other animal fats, extra virgin olive oil, expeller expressed sesame and flax oil and the tropical oils—coconut and palm.
- Eat fresh fruits and vegetables, preferably organic, in salads and soups, or lightly steamed.
- Use whole grains and nuts that have been prepared by soaking, sprouting or sour leavening to neutralize phytic acid and other anti-nutrients.
- Include enzyme-enhanced lacto-fermented vegetables, fruits, beverages and condiments in your diet on a regular basis.
- Prepare homemade meat stocks from the bones of chicken, beef, lamb or fish and use liberally in soups and sauces.
- Use herb teas and coffee substitutes in moderation.
- Use filtered water for cooking and drinking.
- Use unrefined Celtic sea salt and a variety of herbs and spices for food interest and appetite stimulation.
- Make your own salad dressing using raw vinegar, extra virgin olive oil and expeller expressed flax oil.
- Use natural sweeteners in moderation, such as raw honey, maple syrup, dehydrated cane sugar juice and stevia powder.
- Use only unpasteurized wine or beer in strict moderation with meals.
- Cook only in stainless steel, cast iron, glass or good quality enamel.
- Use only natural supplements (non-synthetic whole food supplements preferred).
- Get plenty of sleep, exercise and natural light.
- Think positive thoughts and minimize stress.
- Practice forgiveness.
For more information on how Functional Nutrition, Acupuncture, and our new Wellness Membership can benefit you feel free to contact me. I’d love to hear from you!
Brianna Brownfield, LAc
