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We Are What We Eat

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Submitted By SANDRARUSSO
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Many years ago, the buzz-phrase “You are what you eat” appeared everywhere. The saying reminded us that the foods we eat break down into elements that our bodies absorb. What we eat becomes part of us.

This premise rings true in our non-physical selves as well—the reading, listening, and viewing material we ingest becomes a part of our being. Our physical health requires consistent nourishment of foods and drink; likewise successful living depends on constant nourishment.

The quality of what we ingest affects the quality of our health.

Each healthy food has a purpose: some improve our immune systems and help us fight off potential illnesses; some foods boost our energy levels; others build muscles, bones, improve eyesight, and even keep us regular (if you know what I mean).

If we plan to hike several miles on a weekend, we can prepare by eating foods that will prolong our energy. If a virus spreads at our workplace, or more seriously, our grandkids are coming to visit, we can boost our immune systems by eating certain foods or taking certain herbs.

In times of high activity and stress, we can adjust our food intake to better handle the strain.

Fad diet proponents teach their adherents to concentrate intensely on a narrow selection of foods (i.e. grapefruit, high carbs, low carbs, pineapple). Yet nutritionists encourage the balanced eating of foods from each food group. If we need to lose weight, we moderately adjust our food balance in favor of foods low in calories and fat.

Some foods provide empty calories. They make few constructive contributions to our well-being. We should limit our intake of these empty-calorie foods. However, occasional use of these foods adds enjoyment and variety to our lives. But over use of them can hurt our health.

Now, what does all this food talk have to do with our personal development? We can greatly affect our

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