Our family has recently made big changes to the way we eat. After watching several documentaries on food and nutrition, we decided to take control of what we put in our bodies with healthy eating habits. My wife and I started to educate ourselves about food production and have become conscious label readers. We started following Facebook pages and blogs and learning ways to eat more intentionally.
Changing how we eat is one step toward living a healthier life as a family. This is a journey for us, and sometimes we get derailed and indulge in convenience or comfort. And that’s okay.
In order to succeed, it’s important for everyone to be involved. It’s not just about changing how you eat; it’s about adopting a new perspective and lifestyle, one that will pay innumerable dividends.
Most important – reconsider your current relationship with food. Make shopping, prepping, cooking, and eating a family affair. You may be thinking, “This all sounds great, but how do I get started?” Your first stop is the grocery store, and I’ve put together a list of staples to stock your kitchen. {Hint: Buying in bulk often saves money. Be sure to check out your local grocery stores for the bulk section.}
Loading up the FRIDGE
- Whole fat dairy products :: yogurt, cheese, organic milk {the closer to the source, the better}
- Milk alternatives :: coconut, almond, soy, cashew milks
- Fresh vegetables :: kale, spinach, carrots, peppers, beets, onions, sweet potatoes, zucchini, squash, eggplant, avocado, mushrooms, herbs
- Fresh fruits :: apples, pears, grapes, berries, bananas
- Lean proteins :: chicken, fish, tofu, tempeh, seitan
Now for the PANTRY
- Condiments :: salsa, mustard, hummus
- Oils :: coconut, grapeseed, avocado, sesame, hemp seed
- Nuts :: almonds, cashews, walnuts, pecans, hazelnuts, almonds, and peanuts
- Dried fruit :: dates, figs, raisins, apples, bananas, mango, pineapple, cranberries, blueberries
- Carbohydrates :: pastas {whole wheat, quinoa, amaranth, rice, buckwheat}, brown rice, quinoa, bulgar, barley, oats, whole wheat flour; dried beans and lentils {red, black, kidney, black-eyed peas}
- Sweeteners :: local honey + maple syrup {real}
- Spices :: garlic powder, onion powder, cinnamon, ground ginger, curry powder, garam masala, cumin, red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, ground chili powder, paprika, turmeric, black pepper, sea salt
- Miscellaneous ::
- Chia seeds {lots of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, antioxidants and minerals – including phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, manganese}
- Flax seeds {lots of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants}
- Nutritional yeast {18 essential amino acids, 15 minerals, and rich in B vitamins}
- Protein powder {great for smoothies!}
And finally, the FREEZER
- Frozen vegetables :: corn, edamame, peppers, peas, frozen beans
- Homemade pancakes
- Homemade veggie burgers
- Whole grain bread
- Fruit pops
- Fruit for smoothies
Am I missing anything here? What are your healthy eating suggestions?
