Many people believe that eating healthy means swapping out their regular processed foods for the so-called “healthy” processed alternatives. However, the key to a truly nutritious diet lies in focusing on whole foods—foods that are as close to their natural state as possible.
But what exactly does "whole foods" mean? Simply put, a whole-food diet consists of single-ingredient foods that come together to create balanced meals. For example, a dinner of grilled chicken, roasted sweet potatoes, and steamed broccoli consists entirely of whole foods. Each component is a single ingredient, unprocessed and full of its natural nutrients. Personally, I love shopping in the produce section because it offers the freshest versions of these foods.
Swapping processed foods for their "healthier" versions doesn't always mean you're getting better nutrition. Many packaged foods, even those marketed as healthy, contain additives, preservatives, and hidden sugars that can diminish their nutritional value.
For instance, dried fruit may seem like a great alternative to fresh fruit, but it often contains added sugars and lacks the full fiber content of its fresh counterpart. The same goes for store-bought smoothies and juices, which can be loaded with sweeteners and lack the fiber found in whole fruits. If you love smoothies, the best option is to make them yourself using fresh ingredients—you’ll get the full benefits without unnecessary additives.
Simple Whole-Food Snack Ideas
If you're looking for quick, single-ingredient snacks to keep you satisfied between meals, start with fruits and vegetables. Here are a few easy and nutritious snack ideas:
- Cut-up veggies with hummus
- Apple slices with nut butter (check the label to ensure it contains only nuts and possibly salt)
- Nuts and seeds (opt for raw or dry-roasted varieties without added oils or sugars)
- Plain yogurt with fresh berries
Whenever you’re buying packaged foods, take a moment to check the ingredient list. A good rule of thumb: If the ingredient list is long or contains things you don’t recognize, it’s probably not the best choice. The first ingredient listed makes up the largest portion of the food, so pay close attention to it.
We only get one body, and the food we consume plays a huge role in our overall health and well-being. Prioritizing whole, single-ingredient foods is one of the best ways to fuel your body, feel your best, and have the energy for all of life’s adventures.
Start small—swap out one processed food for a whole-food alternative today and notice how much better you feel!
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