Food is any material consumed to provide nutrition to an organism for the sustenance of life. In the human body, food is generally of animal, plant or fungal source, and contains vital nutrients, including proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals or enzymes, which are needed for the growth and maintenance of an organism. The majority of people in industrialized countries live on diets rich in cereals, legumes, fresh fruits and vegetables, milk and dairy products, sugar and refined flour products. Under such a strict diet food is rarely of high nutritional quality and is often low in iron, vitamin B12, folate and other micronutrients. This situation has led to an increased incidence of diseases, premature aging and a dearth of energy and stamina.
There are many reasons for wanting to eat healthy food, the main ones being to avoid and prevent chronic diseases, to promote longevity and good health, to feel better and have more energy, to avoid weight gain, to see food colors and tastes different and to stay fit and healthy. The problem is that most of us have become reliant on highly processed, artificial food to meet our food needs and to satisfy our cravings. Processed, artificial food lacks nutrients and is deficient in the important nutrients like fat, carbohydrates, protein, calcium, iron, zinc and vitamins that are all important for our well-being.
Instead, we rely on highly processed foods with highly refined flour and sugar that do not provide us with the vitamins and nutrients we need. The consequences of this situation are obesity, cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, lack of energy and stamina, weak nails and hair, dry skin, unhealthy organs, cancers, poor digestion, infections and other digestive disorders, hormonal imbalances, neurological disorders, allergies, etc. The good news is that there are ways to ensure that you and your loved ones have access to healthy, well-nourished foods that promote optimal health and provide you with the energy and stamina you need to lead a better quality of life.