Healthy lifestyle, healthy diet

Living a healthy lifestyle can be difficult these days. I struggle with it regularly, but I am consciously aware of my unhealthy practices, I think this in itself is a good thing. As a result my dietary habits on most days are more healthy than not. In my opinion a person’s diet is extremely important to their overall health. Obesity is on the rise in Canada and around the world. There are so many non-nutritious choices that are often less expensive than the more nutritious ones, and more often than not double and triple the normal portion size. It’s no wonder Canada’s waist is expanding. On the other side of the coin we have the oodles of weight loss diets, pills, drinks, exercise equipment, you name it!!!! Its a million dollar industry; and for the most part a huge scam. I look at it this way, what did Grandma and Grandpa have to eat, drink, entertain, and exercise. One thing for sure obesity was uncommon, and diabetes mellitus in children was rare if not unheard of. I think turning back the clock to Grandma and Grandpa’s day is the most effective way to healthy eating. So these are the rules I try to abide by.
1. I grow my own vegetables as much as I’m able to reduce my pesticide intake and it is also eco friendly because it only travels from my backyard to my table, it’s also great exercise and learning experience from year to year
2. I buy local food as much as possible and in season
3. I try to preserve as much as possible, the internet is a great resource and teacher
4. I shop the outside aisle in the grocery store, stay away from precooked products
5. I read labels and compare
6. If it’s convenient it is most likely unhealthy
7. I eat whole fruit instead of drink fruit juice
8. If it’s white it probably has been stripped of nutrients (flour, sugar, rice etc.)
9. I ask myself "What did Grandma and Grandpa eat?"
10. I walk to the store for small items and take the stairs almost always