Enjoy Proper Nutrition or Endure Chronic Illnesses

POSTED ON February 22, 2018 // 0 COMMENTS

As a student in high school the prayer over meals was frequently this song: Some have food but cannot eat, some can eat but have no food, we have food and we can eat, glory be to God on high! Albeit, the meals “we had and we could eat” consistently fell under the category of a poor diet.

Here is YOUR nutrition quiz:

• When was the last time you planned a menu or tracked your weekly food intake?
• What is your daily requirement for protein, carbohydrates, fat, vitamins and minerals?
• How many daily servings of fruits and vegetables are recommended by certified nutritionists?
• Do you know what one serving of fruit or vegetable looks like on your plate?
• What colors of fruits and vegetables do you frequently eat?
• Do you know your present body mass index?

I challenge a group of individuals that in my opinion fell into the category of “those who have food and can eat.” I was attending a seminar with about 250 professional health care providers. I asked the question “How many of you have had 2 servings of fruit and 3 servings of vegetables today?” It was about 4.30 in the afternoon and only a few hands went up. Upon further questioning, none of those who raised their hands actually had eaten 2 servings of fruits and 3 servings of vegetables.

Whether you fall into the category of “those who have food but cannot eat,” or “those who have food and can eat”, the message is the same – pay serious attention to proper nutrition. Ignoring this message can cost you dearly. The price may be obesity, chronic illnesses, and/or huge medical expenses. The value of proper nutrition cannot be overemphasized. We are what we eat, and if we do not eat the right foods, poor health is inevitable. The needs of “those who can eat but have no food” will be addressed in another blog.