In my last post I introduced the “Good Medicine Mandala.” I would like to just address a frequently asked question in regards to circle number one: How to EAT
As you might recall the rings go like this in order of importance…
How to EAT
How to SLEEP
How to MOVE
How to PROTECT
How to UNWIND
How to CONNECT.
Circle One: How to Eat
If you’re like me, I really don’t want to be told how to eat! I have my favorites and my routines and would rather not have anyone one mess with them. UNTIL I don’t feel well or am needing to lose weight or wonder how I’m setting myself up for my future health wise. Then I start being more open.
The current and most up-to-date information on healthy eating consists of eating approximately 60-70% veggies/fruits in a day. WOW. I work on eating veggies more than fruit and feel like anything close to that is an accomplishment. I know I have to learn how to love this.
However, a concern when you’re eating produce is, are they full of pesticides?
Here’s the most recent “Dirty Dozen,” (that is, the fruits and vegetables with the most pesticides). This produce has been found to contain up to 98 different pesticides! These pesticides were found even after washing and peeling the skin off. And we don’t want to peel off the skin because they contain a large amount of nutrients. So try to buy THESE 16 ORGANIC if at all possible.
THE DIRTY DOZEN – which has been expanded to more than 12 this year.
- Apples
- Bell Peppers
- Blueberries
- Celery
- Collard Greens
- Cucumbers
- Grapes
- Hot Peppers
- Kale
- Lettuce
- Nectarines
- Peaches
- Potatoes
- Spinach
- Strawberries
- Tomatoes
NOTE: Coffee and Wine also have been found to have high amount of pesticides and are so it’s best to buy organic
In case you wonder, does this really make a difference? I’ve questioned this, too. Here’s a recent study that convinced me. This study showed that after just one week of eating organic that the pesticides in urine were reduced down by 60%. Consistent organic eaters brought the number to 70% less pesticides. Encouraging!
So, take small steps. If you’re not eating that much produce (especially veggies) take steps to start sneaking them into maybe your shake the morning—a whole handful if you can. And after a while the increase will pay great dividends in your health and weight.
