Choose Good-Better-Best Nutrient-Dense Whole Foods
According to the wise folk over at the USDA Nutrition.Gov, National Institutes of Health, and the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, “nutrient-dense foods” are foods that provide a high amount of essential nutrients but with relatively few calories… or in other words, foods that do your body the world of good. If you want every mouthful to count, do your health and wellness a favor by choosing the best nutrient-dense whole foods.
We can’t promise miracles, but it’s certainly a step in the right direction to whole-body health and nutrition. Keep this list handy when making up your grocery shopping list and planning your meals. Your body will thank you! And your family will too!
Food Tips and My Good-Better-Best Whole Foods List
Here are some tips and my Good-Better-Best list to pick nutritionally dense foods for your best health and wellness. There’s also a link where you can download my list in PDF format for reference.
1. Focus on whole, unprocessed foods: Choose foods that are as close to their natural state as possible. This includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
2. Include a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables: Aim to eat a rainbow of fruits and vegetables to ensure you’re getting a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
3. Choose sprouted whole grains: Instead of refined grains like white bread and pasta, opt for sprouted whole grains such as quinoa, brown rice, and whole wheat bread. They are higher in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
4. Include healthy fats: Incorporate sources of healthy fats into your diet like avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil. These fats are beneficial for heart health and can help you feel satiated.
5. Read food labels: Check the nutrition information and the ingredient list to make informed choices. Look out for added sugars, unhealthy fats, and artificial additives.
6. Limit processed and packaged foods: These often contain high levels of added sugars, unhealthy fats, and sodium. Opt for homemade meals whenever possible.
7. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day as it aids digestion, transports nutrients, and helps maintain overall health.
8. Listen to your body: Pay attention to how certain foods make you feel. Everyone’s nutritional needs are unique, so experiment and find what works best for you.
At Quintana Wellness, the nutritional therapy process is not your typical dietician or medical visit. It is a stand-alone therapy, or it may be combined with behavioral health care for a whole-body approach to healthy living. Our holistic approach to health and wellness includes using food and dietary interventions to promote optimal health and prevent or manage various health conditions. It is based on the principle that our diet and nutritional status significantly impact our overall well-being. It is important to note that while nutritional therapy can be a valuable complement to conventional medical treatment, it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. It is always recommended to consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
