WHAT’S THE PERFECT DIET FOR YOU?

When it comes to determining the “perfect” diet, a certain amount of self-awareness is necessary. While there are certain foods that are generally anti-inflammatory, nutrient-dense and health-promoting for all people, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition. The way the body reacts to the foods we eat and our ability to digest and utilize nutrients make us unique, and this reaction is due to genetics, exposures, and current health statuses.

Use these tips below for becoming more aware of the best foods for you.

1.  TUNE IN-

The foods you eat dictate how you feel. Do you feel energized, supported and satisfied after eating? Do you feel bloated, sluggish and foggy?

The way that the body digests and absorbs nutrients is incredibly individualized and you should choose foods that make you feel your best. If you are constantly experiencing undesirable symptoms after eating, start paying more attention to potential foods that you should avoid. Many people choose to ignore how foods make them feel and spend a lot of time, as a result, not feeling their best. These signals and reactions from the body are a gift so show your body respect by choosing foods that make you feel great (mentally and physically).

2.  TAKE A LOOK AT YOUR ANCESTRY-

Often times, some of the foods that make you feel your best won’t be too different from what your ancestors ate.

A large part of the way we digest food lies in our DNA. If you grew up in a Spanish family eating common staples like meat, rice and beans, these foods may provide you with the best source of nutrition from a nutrient-utilization perspective. While the body is definitely capable of adaptation, going back to the basics is sometimes helpful when determining what foods may be best for you.

3.   DITCH THE EXTREMES-

If you have to cut out certain food groups or go to the extremes, this is likely not the most sustainable diet for you.

Establish a routine with your food that is balanced and that doesn’t require too much thought or attention. Foods are there to support and nourish us and shouldn’t feel limiting. So rather than focusing on the foods that don’t agree with you, focus on incorporating all the foods that do.

While there are lots of different opinions on what kind of “diet” is the best, ultimately, what you eat has to work for you. This means that you should feel nourished, energized and supported on a day-to-day basis with what you choose to consume. Eating this way allows the body to tune into what works and what doesn’t and allows for optimal functioning. Ultimately, our food should feed our bodies and our souls- contributing to an overall sense of wellbeing.