How Changing Your Food Can Change Your Whole Life

Dec 12, 2023
7 People Read
Healthy Food

Changing your food choices can have a profound impact on various aspects of your life, influencing not only your physical health but also your mental well-being, energy levels, and overall lifestyle. I struggled for well over a decade with my digestive health, spending far too much time in the emergency room and at my doctor's office.  I was in my early 20s when my primary care physician suggested I get a colonoscopy!  I just couldn't wrap my head around that being my only option and that is when I decided to visit a naturopath and consult with a local natural health consultant at our local pharmacy. From there we did something I never considered.  Eliminate meat.  Although that was another thing I had a hard time wrapping my head around….it seemed more doable than the colonoscopy route.

 

Let me know tell you.  My life changed within days.  Not only did it seem like a fog had lifted in my head, but so many other things changed.  I had always suffered afternoon nods, and they disappeared.  Completely!  And that was just within a few days.  After 2 weeks, I made the very easy choice to never eat meat again (that has since changed), but I committed then and there to become vegetarian. Not because I didn't want to hurt an animal, or was a Bambi lover, but because my daily life and health depended on it. The following decade involved a lot of learning and reading and trying different things, but for 12 years, I didn't eat any red meat or poultry and minimal fish. Through a lot of trial and error and personal choices, I have figured out what works for me and have not been to the emergency room for digestive issues or any cramps for over 20 years.

 

Here are some ways changing my food changed my life:

 

1. Weight Management

  • Making different healthier food choices didn't change my weight but I would say has definitely been beneficial in managing and maintaining my weight, and positively affecting my self-esteem and overall body image.

2. Increased Energy Levels

  • Removing meat from my diet, but also ensuring I supplemented with nutrient-dense foods provided the necessary fuel for my body, leading to increased energy levels and improved stamina throughout the day. Again, I have since introduced, clean, wild game back into my diet and have figured out how to maintain the energy and stamina.  For me, the biggest consideration was the amount of meat that I ate.  We don't need to eat a 12 oz steak to survive. lol

3. Better Mental Health

  • Certain nutrients, like omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables, are associated with improved mood and reduced risk of mental health issues. This was overly apparent to me with such a huge shift in my food choices.

4. Improved Digestive Health

  • A diet rich in fiber, obtained from whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, supports a healthy digestive system and can alleviate issues like bloating and constipation. I believe this is one of the main things that helped alleviate the cramping and digestive issues.  I have come to learn that poultry in particular is a source of a not happy digestive system for me.  So eliminating poultry in particular significantly improved my digestive health.

5. Enhanced Immune Function

  • Nutrient-rich foods strengthen your immune system, reducing the likelihood of falling ill and improving your overall resilience. With two young babies in tow in my 20s, I was always sick.  However, by changing my food intake and focusing on putting healthy food into my body, I noticed very quickly how my immunity increased.  Today, I'm rarely sick.

6. Better Sleep Quality

  • Certain foods, like those rich in tryptophan or magnesium, can promote better sleep, leading to improved overall well-being.  I always sleep well, except for extraordinary times in my life.  But for the most part, sleep has been amazing.  One thing I have learned about sleep is that if I don't get enough, my body hates me, more than poor food choices.

7. Positive Impact on Skin Health

  • A diet rich in antioxidants and hydration can lead to healthier skin, reducing the risk of skin issues and promoting a more radiant complexion.  Again, this is overly apparent to me.  I think primarily focusing on eliminating pop and increasing my water intake made a noticeable difference in plumping the skin.  Something that as I approach my fifties, I appreciate more every day!

8. Increased Cognitive Function

  • Nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish and flaxseeds, are associated with improved cognitive function, memory, and concentration. I'm able to get flaxseeds, chia seeds, and plenty of fish in throughout the week. I'm not convinced that my memory is improving…but focus is a big one for me and my work.

9. Positive Lifestyle Changes

  • Adopting healthier food choices often goes hand-in-hand with other positive lifestyle changes, such as increased physical activity and improved stress management.  The more I get out of the house and office and find outdoor activities to bide my time the better my mental health and balance in my stress day-to-day. Healthy food intake and outdoor activity can change your life on their own.

10. Enhanced Relationship with Food

  • Developing a mindful and balanced approach to eating can foster a healthier relationship with food, reducing emotional eating and promoting a positive attitude towards nutrition. I've learned to love cooking and creating different food choices.  I've opened my mind to so many different dishes.

11. Environmental Awareness

  • Choosing locally sourced and sustainably produced foods can contribute to environmental sustainability, fostering a sense of responsibility and awareness about the impact of food choices. My garden size has increased over the years and I feel pride in growing food that I can eat throughout the year and know exactly where it came from and how it was grown.  We fill the freezer and cupboards with vegetable and canned goodies.  It's a very satisfying feeling.

12. Social and Cultural Connections

  • Exploring diverse and nutritious foods can open up new culinary experiences, fostering social connections and cultural appreciation through shared meals.  Friendships develop with people you would have never guessed through healthier food choices. 

 

Always remember that food is individual for everyone.  What food works for me, may not work for everyone.  It is essential to make changes that align with your body's needs, your health goals, what brings you joy, and your preferences.  Of course, it only makes sense if you are going to make a drastic change in your diet, that you consult with a healthcare provider, naturopath, or a registered dietician. They can provide you with personalized guidance based on your specific needs and certainly, if you have any health concerns.

 

I believe there is something to be said for the saying, "You are what you eat". Take that how you will. For me, I became a calmer, more centered human. My patience for others increased, and my joy for food brought a joy for cooking. I've met and become friends with others who share a passion for good, locally sourced, organically grown food. Most exciting of all, I've met another human who also has a huge appreciation for the same. Our lives now intertwine with a love for adventure travels, growing great food, preserving as much as possible, and hunting and harvesting as much meat as we can to provide for our families.

 

Life…it's what you make of it

 

X J