If there is one thing that can be confusing these days is trying to figure out just what constitutes healthy eating and what doesn’t. There are lots of experts making various and conflicting claims.

In my opinion, looking to the big expert is key. What I mean by the big expert is God, the Creative Force of the Universe or whatever name you feel comfortable with. I know that there are some who believe that we just accidently showed up on this earth but I’m not one of them and so bear with me.

I have yet to find anyone who can replicate the creative genius I see manifested in the world of nature. I personally don’t need statistics to convince me – but even the science of statistics gives the nod to this world being created by something more than chance happening.

So…here are my thoughts on healthy eating:

Eat foods that still look like the foods they were meant to be. For example, a strawberry food should be made of strawberries…not lots of strawberry flavoring and strawberry color.

• Eating foods that are refined versions of the foods they came from usually means one thing to your body – micro nutrients, fiber and all the good things that came packed with the original version have been eliminated. Believe it or not – if your taste buds have become accustomed to white bread and other refined foods – you can develop a taste for the whole grain counterpart and once you do – you won’t want to go back. You will learn that your body responds in positive ways to whole grain foods and that you will feel much better.
• Good clean water and lots of it should be a part of healthy eating.
• Sugar is not horrible in small quantities but in large quantities it contributes to weight and health issues that no one wants to experience. The typical American diet is loaded with too much sugar. Try using natural sugars such as honey and learn to use fruit to get your sugar kick!
• Our food intake should include lots of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and vegetable proteins and should minimize animal proteins. I am not suggesting that everyone should become vegetarian – but I am suggesting that animal protein does not need to be a part of every meal.
• Moderation counts! Excessive portions – even of healthy foods are not good and add to the waistline. Excessive weight is hard on joints and can be hard on our health!
• Diet changes need to be made over time and in a way that accommodates our lifestyle.

Science and technology have their place. However, I believe that God is the ultimate food scientist. I believe that in the years to come research will show that we get the most benefit from foods which have not been refined. If healthy eating has not been a part of your life – it is never too late to make a change. I have found that by eating healthy and eating foods that have not been refined – I have more energy, feel better and enjoy better overall health. I know that you and your body will feel the difference too! And…when we feel better – we are always happier!