The Real Food Movement
- Brianne Thomas
- 25 minutes ago
- 3 min read
In a world where fast food chains and processed snacks dominate our diets, the Real Food Movement stands out as a refreshing alternative, advocating for a return to wholesome eating. This movement emphasizes the importance of consuming foods that are minimally processed and as close to their natural form as possible, encouraging individuals to embrace fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. By prioritizing these nutrient-dense options, the Real Food Movement not only promotes better health but also fosters a deeper connection to the food we eat. It invites people to reconsider their eating habits, urging them to choose ingredients that nourish the body and support overall well-being, while also advocating for sustainable farming practices and local food systems. In this way, the movement serves as a powerful reminder of the benefits of mindful eating and the joy that comes from savoring real, unadulterated food.
What is the Real Food Movement?
The Real Food Movement emphasizes the importance of whole foods—items that are minimally processed and free from artificial ingredients. This includes fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, grass-fed meats, and organic dairy products. The movement encourages individuals to reconnect with their food sources, often supporting local farmers and sustainable agriculture.
Key Principles of the Real Food Movement
Eat Whole Foods: Focus on foods that are unrefined and unprocessed. Think fresh produce, whole grains, and natural proteins.
Support Local Farmers: Buying from local farms not only supports the local economy but also reduces the carbon footprint associated with transporting food over long distances.
Seasonal Eating: Consuming fruits and vegetables that are in season ensures that you're eating foods at their peak freshness and nutritional value.
Mindful Eating: The movement encourages individuals to savor their food, promoting a deeper connection to what they eat and fostering gratitude.
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What Real Food Isn’t
There is a ton of high-quality research available that tells us processed and overly processed foods are addictive. These foods can activate the brain's pleasure centers in a manner akin to that of certain narcotics, leading to a cycle of cravings that can be hard to break. When our diets are filled with highly processed items, we often consume excessive amounts of refined sugars, carbohydrates, hydrogenated oils, trans fats, artificial flavorings, synthetic additives, and high-fructose corn syrup, among other ingredients. This combination not only enhances the palatability of these foods but also reinforces our desire for them, making it increasingly difficult to resist their allure. Understanding this connection can help us make more informed choices about what we eat and encourage a shift toward healthier, whole food options.
Processed foods lead to obesity, illness, diabetes, digestive upset, food allergies and intolerance, infertility, high cholesterol and blood pressure, Alzheimer’s, and, in some cases, cancer. What we put in our bodies has a direct effect on our overall health.
Where to find high-quality and organic real food?
I’m so glad you asked! Check out my friends over at Country Life Natural Foods. Their high-quality products are purchased from farmers, and their mission is to offer simple and affordable options that take the guesswork out of eating healthily. I love that they sell in bulk as well as smaller quantities directly to my door because this Momma is busy! Let them know I sent you by using my affiliate code: THEAZALEAHOMESTEAD
Moving Forward
I hope you recognize the value of your own well-being. I hope that you join the movement to prioritize your mental and physical health over the relentless chase for success and material gain. It’s time, friend, to redefine success on your own terms and create a life that is as beautiful as you are. In the meantime, why not give some of our real food recipes a try?
Want to help a small family business in a big way? Share our recipes with someone who enjoys delicious, homemade food as much as you do!
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