Eating this way means eating food closer to its natural state. Unfortunately over the years we have lost sight what real food looks like. In order to extend the shelf life, foods have lost their nutritional value as a cocktail combination of sugars, salts, fats, preservatives, artificial colours and flavours have been added to our food supply. When you select more whole foods more often, you will be surprised how fewer cravings for sugars, fats and salt you have. When you eat a more foods that are closer to their natural state, the food contains more of its nutritional value, maintains its fibre, and most often the entire minerals and vitamins are retained. The more plant-rich foods you eat, the better you and your family feel. Eating this way you take a proactive approach to your well-being to reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, cancer and diabetes.

Eating foods that are less refined can also improve your energy levels, stabilize your blood sugars and tend to be much more filling and satisfying. When you eat whole foods you will find your body weight is easier to maintain. This permanent change to how you eat and look at food is liberating. For instance, when the mind is set, the food choices can be easy. By choosing simply more water to quench your thirst over pop or sweetened juices you recognize that you have rehydrated your cells, as well, you have saved over 250 sugar calories from entering your body. Eating this way is simple to do if you plan ahead. When healthy food is on hand and in front of us, we, and our children make better choices. Whether it is at home, at work or in the car, plan for healthy snacks as healthy snacks encourage healthier meal choices.

Moving away from the refined grains and into more whole grains can increase your family's nutritional status overnight. Look for food products that contain unrefined whole grains. For instance, try making a fruit smoothie made with whole grain brown rice beverage, like ryza, to add high quality protein and a serving of whole grains to your diet.

Increase your family's healthy fats intake with foods such as nuts, seeds, nut butters, avocados and unprocessed oils. Focus on lean proteins with little or no saturated fats or trans fats, eggs, wild game, fresh fish, chicken, and turkey as well as and legumes, such as chickpeas, lentils and black beans for maintaining lean body mass. Let fresh and dried fruits, honey, maple syrup and preserves naturally sweeten foods.

Eating this way you will eat less foods with added sugars and oils, less refined grains, and less sodium and cholesterol. Lastly, this simply better for you way to eat is not only healthy, but also preserves our Earth. Remember, have fun and enjoy the journey.