Helath Tips

I'm not here to tell anyone how to live their lives. But here are some simple tips for living a healthier life. It appears that much of this information has become quite mainstream, with our culture finally coming to terms with its mortality and the fact that dying a painful death from cancer or what-have-you is less desirable now since many of us finally realize how to prevent such diseases. So, in essence, this is a small guide to taking care of yourself in order to ensure a relatively disease-free life. Yet this advice is not complete by any means -- think of it more as a stepping stone, where you can then head off in your own direction.


1. Whole grains
People don't usually think about how harmful enriched and bleached grains (flour, wheat, etc.) can be for the human body. Luckily, some people are beginning to realize this, and us regular people can now find healthy alternatives to overly processed grains in just about any grocery store. I'm talking about whole grain or multi-grain household items such as bread, tortillas, rice, and pasta. Sprouted grains are also even better for you because they are considered "live." One can take healthy grains another step further by seeking alternatives to wheat in general. In a health food store, for instance, you might find quinoa, brown rice, or spelt alternatives to your favorite types of pasta. Even if you are not allergic to gluten (found in wheat), these alternatives can be enjoyed, as they are generally healthier than wheat, and quite tasty. It's about consuming those grains in their original form.

2. Raw fruits, vegetables, and nuts/seeds
Again, this is very basic, about eating things the way they are meant to be eaten. Cooking vegetables actually removes some of their nutrients in the process. But you don't have to go 100% raw (by the way, "raw" consists anything not heated above 150 degrees). It is important enough to incorporate a few servings of raw fruits and vegetables into your diet everyday. Carrots or celery and almonds, for instance, make great snacks, and you can just eat them without any preparation at all. As for the fancier stuff, you can consult a raw recipe book and find some interesting meals. Fruits are also important, and they can be quite versatile. For example, you can juice just about anything, and again make some tasty beverages. Simply eating an orange can give you more vitamin C than any pill or pasteurized juice can as well. And you can put [raw] nuts on just about anything!

3. Avoid processed foods and preservatives
I know that most of us cannot use fresh ingredients all the time. Unfortunately, anything canned, boxed, wrapped, or packaged contains a great deal of chemicals. Watch out for them, because even though no one really knows what effects they may have on humans, they can't be a good thing in the end. So examine ingredient lists carefully. "All natural" does not mean a thing. But it is good trust brands that make an effort to keep the chemicals/preservatives to a minimum. This tip applies to fast-food as well, which generally should be avoided at all costs.

4. Increase your water intake
This is so easy, but most of us don't bother to monitor our water intake, nor do we usually make an effort to make sure we've had enough for the day. As we all know though, we need water, and a lot of it each day. So make an effort to drink a lot of water (excluding tea or juices) each day. To remind yourself, try bringing a gallon of it with you on the go. And only drink purified water! Tap water contains chlorine and fluoride, among other unknown things -- stuff you do not want to drink.

5. Avoid sugar, artificial sweeteners, and sodium
Artificial sweeteners such as aspartame have actually been proven to cause brain tumors. Avoid it like the plague! Other sweeteners such as sucralose and Splenda have less-known side effects. If you need sugar, try raw sugar or evaporated cane juice (as an ingredient). Don't drink sugary beverages like sodas and juices (with added sugar) either. Drink water instead. This will also minimize your dentist visits. As for sodium, just be aware of the sodium content of anything you eat. Too much can't be good for you, and lucky for us, "low sodium" has become somewhat fashionable (in the grocery store).

6. Drink herbal teas
Herbal teas are not only good tasting, but also high in antioxidants (another now-fashionable term). Green teas are especially good for you too, so why not have a cup of tea to brighten your mornings instead of coffee? Other things that have antioxidants: blueberries and red wine! Mix these up into your daily diet.

7. Eliminate meat!
Okay, so I know most people will hate me for adding this one. But let's face it: red meat simply isn't that great for you. Meats are also highly processed, making them unfavorable and potentially dangerous (food poisoning, anyone?). The best alternative to meat is probably tofu, which is high in soy protein, and versatile in terms of taste and preparation. There are others such as tempeh, and seitan, also high in protein (but you can get protein from almost anything, like legumes). Be sure to avoid processed meat alternatives though, because I'm thinking those might be just as bad as the real thing. If you must have meat, however, then only buy the freshest from your most trusted dealer (butcher?).

8. Buy local
This isn't for physical health as much as mental and environmental health. Supporting your local community is always a good thing, plus there's the advantage of getting your hands on the freshest of ingredients (i.e. not having to deal with overly processed foods that contain chemicals). In other words, you can buy directly from the source. If you live near a weekly farmer's market, then I would suggest taking full advantage of it. Keep an eye out for items produced near you in grocery stores as well. As for the environment, buying local creates less traffic, and just feels better in the end.

9. Exercise!
Exercise can be found in a leisurely walk to your closest grocery store or a morning jog around the neighborhood (or a bike ride to work, etc.). People tend to think that finding the time to do these things is difficult. But is it really all that hard to go for a walk once in a while? While I also suggest a more balanced plan of exercise, one that perhaps includes using weights or doing yoga, I think it is important to just get some fresh air each day, as it will be beneficial in the end.


Well I can't think of a tenth one right now, which would make this list "Dr. Food's Top Ten Tips for Healthy Living," but you get the idea. Again, This is nowhere near complete, so I advise doing some independent research. Learn what the medical industry doesn't want you to know (because it is a business). Also learn what the media won't tell you. The clues are out there, and it isn't all that bizarre to live a life that feels good.