Your Plate, Your Power

by Summer Ruggi

Let’s explore how we can make this transition together!

In today’s fast-paced world, our relationship with food is changing dramatically. With so many options available, it’s easy to overlook what we’re actually putting on our plates. But there’s a growing movement focused on changing the way we eat, prioritising natural foods, and removing harmful chemicals from our diets.

As life has developed so has my thirst knowledge my husband and I have a desire of getting back to nature and living a long healthy life, and being self-sufficient.

When I ran a commercial kitchen myself I started to become aware of life style and life choices in people’s food preferences. This made me look at ourselves a little and question our eating habits and types of food we consumed and how we ate.

Our personal life changing motivation, began when we both started putting on a little weight, so at the beginning that was that main driver, losing weight, and keeping it off, not letting the famous middle age spread kick in.(If you saw most of my family you would understand me being very conscious of putting un-necessary weight on.) Both my husband and I were close to our 40’s before starting this new path, we had listened to many older people, always saying this is when life’s aliments start happening and the body breaks down.

Why? Were the questions that resonated in my thoughts?

And after much study on the topic came down to, our body starts to break down with all the years of abuse and/or neglect, or simply the wrong types of so called healthy food…And this starts in Child hood!!!  While your child is in your womb is the beginning on how they are set up, their cells, DNA and bio markers. The first years of their life is also very crucial on the nutrients they receive.. Issues of diabetes, weight gain, cancers, heart disease, blood disorders, arthritis, high blood cholesterol, and the lists go on starts here.

A moment to ponder:

Your body has to be sick first to be diagnose with these conditions/ diseases/cancer.

It is us who need to mentally want, and need, to make the changes to our future and our children’s future. We impact their life and future health, this then impacts our whole civilization.

The rise in diabetes, childhood and adult obesity, you have to ask the question. Why? 

Anyone can be unhealthy and may not know how damaged they are until its too late.

Everyone is different, your body’s responses to food are different, and with your own trials and research you will make it work for you and family.
With alarming rates of childhood obesity, diabetes, and other diet-related diseases, it’s essential to understand that what we feed our kids is more than just fuel; it’s a foundation for their growth, learning, and development. Poor nutrition can affect cognitive function, mood, and energy levels, making it crucial that we prioritize healthy eating in our families. Many of us may not realise just how much our food is affected by chemicals. From pesticides used in farming to preservatives added during processing, these substances can have various health impacts over time. They can affect everything from our gut health to our overall well-being. By choosing to eliminate or reduce these chemicals, we can pave the way for a healthier lifestyle.

Changing the way we eat is not just a trend; it’s a powerful choice for a healthier future. By focusing on natural foods, eliminating chemicals, and fostering mindful eating habits, we can improve our health and well-being.

TIPS:
  • Instil healthy eating habits is by involving kids in the kitchen. Cooking together can be a fun and educational experience. Kids love to help, and when they participate in meal preparation, they’re more likely to try new foods and appreciate the effort that goes into making meals.
  • The first step in changing our eating habits is to embrace whole foods. This means selecting fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and lean proteins that are as close to their natural state as possible. For example, instead of reaching for processed snacks laden with additives, why not try some fresh fruit or homemade trail mix? Not only do whole foods nourish our bodies, but they also taste great!
  • When you’re out shopping, consider visiting local farmers’ markets or joining a community-supported agriculture (CSA) program. These options often provide access to fresh, seasonal produce without the use of harsh chemicals. Reading labels is also crucial—look for products that are organic or labelled as free from artificial additives. Opting for organic options can help reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals while supporting sustainable farming practices.
  • Finally, let’s talk about the importance of being mindful when we eat. Taking the time to enjoy our meals not only enhances our dining experience but also helps us appreciate the natural flavour of our food. Ditch the distractions, savour each bite, and pay attention to how different foods make you feel. You might find that foods without chemicals offer more satisfying tastes and better energy levels throughout the day.
Conclusion:

It’s time to rethink our relationship with food—not just for the sake of our own bodies but for the well-being of the next generation.

We are in an age where fast food is more accessible than fresh vegetables, the way we eat is having significant repercussions on our health and the futures of our children. Let’s take this journey together, celebrating every delicious and nourishing bite along the way!

Remember, every small change counts—so start today and enjoy the beautiful benefits of a chemical-free diet

Join Summer’s Next Modern Cooking session

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