Over the last 40 years the average caloric intake has increase substantially. After the invention of “processed” foods following World War II, North Americans have experienced an increase in heart attack, stroke, cancer, type 2 diabetes, and other obesity related illnesses.
Having access to nutrition-less and high calorie foods is just one aspect to the increase in obesity. The other factor is simply overeating. Contrary to what you might think, you can still gain weight from eating too much of a well balanced, healthy diet too. It is harder to over consume calories when you are eating greens, veggies, lean meat and fish but it is still possible.
You may remember hearing about The Okinawa Program that was popular a few years ago. This was a study of the people of Okinawa, an island in Japan, where people commonly lived beyond 100 years of age. Several factors contributed to their longevity and vibrant health. One of them was called “Hara hachi bu.” This means “Eat to 80% fullness.” Stopping before you are 100% full can really help your digestive and metabolic health. It is important to eat until you are nutritionally and emotionally satisfied but then stop. You can always have more later when your stomach is empty. Make it a rule to only eat until you are 80% full. I have seen several people eat exactly what they normally eat and lose weight following this concept. Until next time…
~Think Vitality!~