30.4.13

all things in moderation

It is not my regular modus operandi to do this but there is a post over on Healthy Green Kitchen that so perfectly says what I have been thinking (and to be honest - talking about as well) about how and what we chose to eat. All I can say is "amen". I think it is well worth reading. 

When we were in Japan (March) it was impossible NOT to notice the absence of craziness regarding food. Nobody even knows what 'paleo' is! (Not saying paleo is crazy, just an example of a pretty restrictive eating program.) Chia seed is an unknown and just try to buy coconut oil! People simply eat - for the most part - whole food, simply prepared, when they are hungry. Most people are well within a healthy weight, walking a lot keeps them reasonably fit. Being there I reflected on our North American obsession and had to admit that I felt a lot more relaxed and happy without that pressure. Making wise food choices is incredibly important but it shouldn't be the primary focus of one's life. Loving, serving, laughing, sharing, working - these are things that fulfill and ultimately bring health and joy.

I know that many people have very real health issues. I also know that very careful food choices make a huge difference for them and don't mean to suggest otherwise. I totally support their efforts and feel for them in their pain. But for the vast majority of us making wise choices to eat a wide variety of whole foods prepared in interesting and healthful ways is the good choice. 

7 comments:

Life Is Golden said...

You might just have my very favourite blog in the whole wide world! You are inspiring... just thought I'd better fess up... (plus we're moving home and I'd be lying if I don't have high hopes of convincing you to give me cooking lessons (and maybe some decorating advice thrown in there)... hahaha). - Regan.

Erika said...

Amen Cheri! Thanks for bringing it all back into perspective!

Cheri said...

Regan and Erika - you made my day! Thanks for the sweetness.

Jonathon said...

So wise I shared this one on Facebook. I love it!

Anonymous said...

Love this!! I popped over to read the other blog and I totally felt like I could have written it. It is so inline with my thoughts on nutrition (I'm a Holistic Nutritionist student). I'm actually in the process of doing some homework and needed to find your "go-to salad dressing" from a last year so I could give an example of a delicious healthy salad dressing. I love that your blog is the "whole" picture... not just eating healthy but living life, savouring food but also precious moments. Keep doing what you are doing... you inspire me all the time!

Melissa

Anonymous said...

Lol! You go-to salad was from June 2011! Haha I thought it was last year... wow time flies. :)

Melissa

Cheri said...

Well, that was a lovely thing to say Melissa! Thank you so much 😊.