4 Ways to Eat More Whole Foods

It’s National Nutrition Month! Every year during the month of March, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics invites us all to focus on making better choices when we eat and developing better habits regarding food and physical activity. 

In honor of that mission, let’s talk about food! 

We all know that fake, heavily processed foods aren’t good for our health and that we should cut them out of our diet. But oftentimes, that’s easier said than done because processed foods are the norm in today’s world. In fact, it’s estimated that 63% of the diet of an average American consists of refined or processed foods while only 6% consists of whole foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains. 

The good news is that if you are looking to start incorporating more whole foods into your diet, there are small steps you can take to help you get started today. Here are a few of our favorites. 

1. Choose Whole Grains
   Highly processed grains like white rice, pasta, and flour are full of calories but have very little nutritional value. Plus, they are also high in refined carbohydrates, which are quickly processed by your body, leaving you hungry not long after you finish eating. On the other hand, whole grains like brown rice, wheat flour, and whole-grain pasta are not only less processed but are also full of micronutrients like vitamins and minerals. As an added bonus, they are also rich in fiber which is both filling and great for your digestive system.
2. Snack on Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
   We know that reaching for a bag of chips or grabbing a few cookies to snack on is convenient, but there are healthier alternatives out there. Instead, try keeping a supply of fresh fruits and veggies in your fridge. Not only are they loaded with nutrients, but most of them can be eaten raw, too. Just rinse them off, cut them, and you have a quick snack that is both healthy and nutritious.
3. Substitute with Veggies
   Keep an eye out for recipe ingredients that can be substituted with vegetables. You would be surprised how often you can cut out processed ingredients by using a vegetable substitute. For example, finely chopped cauliflower can be substituted for rice, and spaghetti squash or zucchini are both great substitutes for pasta.
4. Don’t Forget Superfoods
   Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are all great, but if you really want to make sure you are giving your body all the nutrients it needs, it’s time to start adding superfoods like acai berries, cacao, hemp, and, our favorite option, organic Wild Microalgae® to your diet. 

There is no doubt that nourishing your body with whole foods is one of the best ways to keep your mind and body healthy. That’s why we are inviting you to join us in celebrating National Nutrition Month by making simple adjustments to your daily eating habits that will help you be well on your way to an even healthier lifestyle.