Life has become so busy! If we’re not dropping the kids off somewhere, we’re rushing to a meeting, trying to keep up with housework, or tackling a never-ending to-do list. With such a fastpaced lifestyle, it’s no wonder we find ourselves relying more on processed foods than we’d ideally like.
But have you ever stopped to think about how this affects not just our health but also the way we experience food?
Eating on the go – A recipe for poor digestion
How many of us eat on the move? Grabbing a sandwich between meetings, snacking while driving, or quickly wolfing down dinner in front of the TV? While it may seem efficient, eating in a hurry can actually hinder digestion.
Our bodies need to be in a relaxed state, the parasympathetic nervous system (also known as the "rest and digest" mode), to properly break down food and absorb nutrients. However, modern life often keeps us in a stressed ‘fight or flight’ state, whether it's frustration from a difficult meeting or rushing to the next commitment. When we eat in this state, digestion is compromised, leading to bloating, discomfort, and poor nutrient absorption.
Lessons from the Mediterranean Diet
We often talk about the Mediterranean diet in terms of its health benefits, rich in healthy fats, fresh vegetables, and lean proteins like fish. But one of the biggest factors in their wellbeing is not just what they eat, but how they eat.
People in Mediterranean countries tend to take their time with meals, enjoying food with family and friends, free from distractions. There’s no rush, just good food, good company, and a sense of relaxation. While we might not have their sunny weather (especially here in the UK!), we can certainly adopt their mindful approach to eating.
What has changed?
Think about how our grandparents ate. Their food was mostly homegrown, with very little processing involved. Meals were simple, cooked from scratch, and shared with family. Now, we often don’t even know exactly what we’re eating, clever packaging and artificial flavourings tempt our taste buds, but many products are loaded with hidden sugars, unhealthy fats, and excessive salt for preservation.
Ultra-processed foods have become the norm, and while they offer convenience, they come with disadvantages:
Higher levels of sugar and salt – which contribute to obesity, high blood pressure, and other health issues.
Preservatives and artificial ingredients – which can disrupt gut health and affect energy.
Lower nutritional value – meaning we may eat more, but still lack essential nutrients
How Can We Change This?
The good news? We can take back control of our eating habits! Here are some simple but effective ways to shift towards healthier eating:
Prioritise homecooked meals – Even if it's just a few times a week, cooking from scratch gives you control over ingredients. Consider batch cooking!
Slow down and be present – Take time to enjoy your meals without distractions like TV or phones.
Plan ahead – Prepping meals in advance reduces the temptation to grab processed food when you're busy.
Eat more whole foods – Fresh vegetables, whole grains, and natural proteins nourish your body far better than processed alternatives.
Create a mealtime routine – Try to eat at regular times, sitting down at the table, and ideally with family or friends.
Food for Thought
Healthy eating isn’t just about what we eat, it’s about how we eat too. Slowing down, making mindful choices, and enjoying food in a relaxed state can make a huge difference to digestion, overall health, and even our relationship with food.
It’s time to bring back the joy of real food! What small changes can you make today?
If you’d like personalised advice on improving your diet for a healthier lifestyle, check out my Health Boost Package and book a free discovery call to chat about your goals!
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