There is much wisdom in the saying "you are what you eat,” but food today is not the food of yesterday. We need to actually work at getting the amount of nutrients that will help keep us healthy and well.
Our genetic heritage was not designed for an urban environment. Our digestive systems, for example, were not optimized for high-starch diets, fast food and canned fruits and vegetables. The energy requirements of our cells were designed to be based on glucose metabolism. But glucose was originally obtained from readily available fresh produce and whole grains, in the form of complex carbohydrates. When our tissues were originally designed there were no such things as processed flour or sweeteners.
At the dawn of man, protein sources were derived from the local fauna —the local birds and beasts. These animals were not fed antibiotics and were not raised on pesticide-treated grasses. They were not caged and forced to grow up in close proximity to dozens and hundreds of fellow creatures. They roamed freely and randomly, ranging over wide stretches of open territory. As a result, their value as food sources was very high.
Today, unless we make a special effort, our food sources are significantly compromised. Until recently, those living in cities were only able to purchase produce that had traveled long distances over many days to reach their stores. The nutritional value of these fruits and vegetables was necessarily substantially degraded. The nutritional content of protein sources—meat, fowl, fish, dairy, and eggs—were likewise degraded by chemical additives, antibiotics and draconian living conditions.
New food-producing methods, available for the last 30 years but much more so recently, have enabled consumers to put high-quality food on their tables. The slogan "eat locally" has become a possibility for even the most entrenched urban areas such as New York City. Farmer’s markets spring up weekly and monthly in most cities, suburbs, and the surrounding countryside. Organically grown food —produce, fish, meat, fowl, and dairy— is widely available, even in supermarket chains.
We now have more healthy food options than were available at any time within the last 50 years. It is possible to reverse the diabetes and obesity epidemics that have spread across countries like the United States. If you need help understanding what the best food options are for your good health, consult your health care professional. They can suggest resources, classes or experts in this field who would be able to give you the answers you need. Also, check out the farmer’s markets in your area, as they are a great place to find a variety of locally and organically produced food.
Contributed by Dr. Erica Hamer, DC, DIBCN, DIBE, Board Certified Chiropractic Neurologist and owner of Ponte Vedra Wellness Center with offices in Ponte Vedra Beach and Nocatee Town Center.
