120 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com In our quest for better health, the interplay between food and medicine often sparks heated debates. While diet undeniably affects our health and can play a role in managing or preventing disease, it’s important to remember that food is food, and medicine is medicine. Viewing food as a replacement for medical treatments or relying solely on supplements oversimplifies the complex relationship among lifestyle, health care and well-being. Food serves many roles in our lives: it’s not only a source of nourishment but also a cultural, social and emotional anchor. While adopting a healthy diet is crucial, it should never replace necessary medical treatments. Instead, diet and lifestyle choices should complement health care to support overall health. THE ROLE OF DIET IN DISEASE PREVENTION A well-balanced diet can have a profound impact on your health. Research shows a correlation between poor diets and diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes and colon cancer. Diets high in fiber and low in saturated fat and minimally processed foods can reduce the risk of chronic illnesses and support long-term health. Emphasizing whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins promotes a plant-forward approach to eating, which is linked to improved health outcomes. At the same time, dietary choices are not a cure-all. Supplements like zinc and vitamin C may provide benefits, particularly during cold and flu season, but they should not replace a well-rounded diet. Similarly, fad diets or extreme restrictions are unsustainable and can do more harm than good. Instead, following evidence-based guidelines, such as those outlined on myplate.gov, provides a reliable framework for balanced nutrition. HEALTHY EATING AS PART OF A HOLISTIC LIFESTYLE Healthy eating is just one component of a larger lifestyle puzzle. Exercise, proper sleep hygiene and stress management all play essential roles in overall health. You can eat the healthiest diet, but without regular physical activity, adequate rest and mindful living, the benefits of your efforts may be limited. When embarking on a health journey, it’s important to remember that change takes time. Gradual adjustments are more sustainable than drastic overhauls. Start by adding healthy foods to your diet rather than focusing on eliminating less nutritious options. For instance, introducing a variety of fruits and vegetables or swapping sugary drinks for water can make a big difference over time. BABY STEPS TOWARD A HEALTHIER LIFESTYLE For those just starting out, small, manageable steps are key. It’s not realistic to uproot your entire lifestyle overnight, and trying to do so often leads to burnout and frustration. Instead, focus on progress, not perfection. Here are some tips for beginning your health journey: • Taste development: It takes time to adjust to new foods. Research shows that tasting a food up to seven times can help you develop a liking for it. • Balance: Adopt the 80/20 rule — 80% healthy eating, 20% indulgence. Consistency is more important than perfection. • Avoid deprivation: Eliminating a favorite food completely can lead to cravings and overindulgence later. Focus on moderation instead. Balance is Key Tasteful tips for a healthier lifestyle BY CARI LAWSON health and wellness Carol Fenwick is a registered dietitian nutritionist and a certified exercise physiologist practicing in Mount Pleasant.
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