What’s in My Pantry/Fridge #1?

When a client first decides to embrace a healthier way of life one of the first questions is, “What basic foods are needed in the pantry and what do I keep in my fridge?” Although this is only the first of this series on the subject and just a glimpse into what you need, below are staples on the very top of my must haves.

The foods you buy and reach for each day directly link to your health and well-being. They are powerful tools - be careful because the food you eat becomes the body you live in and the life you lead. So make sure you choose real foods that will enhance your journey.

These are the 5 most important food choices to make.

1.Vegetables and Fruits
Every single healthy eating regime that talks about vegetables and fruits suggests getting enough servings. I agree with all of them, but I also disagree in a way. Where this gets different is my suggestion that a shift in thinking is needed. Today you probably view these as add-ons to the meal or even worse, a garnish. Seeing vegetables as the sides on your plate/table reduces them to a category of food to count off the minimum servings of. However, when you flip perspective and make them the main event, there is no need for counting or worrying!
When you shop, simply put more veg and fruit in your basket than anything else. Use these real whole plant-based foods every single time you want to eat something. Grab an apple, banana, peach, carrots, cucumbers, tomatoes – whatever. Chomp, cut, blend, juice – I don’t care – just consume pure, fresh veg (mostly) and fruit whatever way gives you the most pleasure, satisfaction, and fits into your life. Don’t count it, just eat it.
2.Greens
Yep, greens are technically covered above but they are so important that they warrant a shout out of their own. Greens land on the list not just for the typical leafy salad choices but to urge you to include them wherever you can. Greens have the highest nutritional content per calorie of any food according to Dr. Fuhrman of Eat to Live. Make sure greens are part of every single meal – whether you go the pumped up leafy salad route, a steamy sauté, an add-in to a stew, casserole or chili, or even in your drinks. Learn to love the color green, even when it looks a little muddy, and start to re-associate that green color with your clear thinking, energized mind and body.
3.Lemons
Like greens, lemons (& limes) are in the veg/fruit group but since lemons do so many wonderful things for us, they too get extra recognition. You are probably starting to hear more often that a lot of disease/pain is caused by inflammation and an acidic ph inside the body. So where do lemons help? Start your day with warm (not boiling) water and a big squeeze of fresh lemon juice topped with a dash of turmeric (& pepper), cayenne, or ginger. Presto, you have embraced an Ayurvedic practice that will help reduce inflammation and alkalize your body. Counter intuitive? Yes, because lemon juice is an acid, but the effects are alkalizing and so good for you. Plus, your morning lemon water cleans your liver, starts up your digestive system, regulates elimination and cleans your lymphatic system.
4.Seeds
Seeds play a big part in healthy eating. They provide you a lot of the protein everyone is so worried about you getting. They also can act like a grain as quinoa does, allowing you to make pilafs, grain salads, fillings, burgers, and even deserts. Seeds are loaded with protein but they are also loaded with fiber, vitamins, and amino acids. Plus, some seeds, like chia seeds, help you detoxify, and all seeds fill you up. Quinoa, chia, hemp, sesame, pumpkin, and sunflower seeds can be used in many ways. Start simple, adding them to your green salads, on top of almost anything, and even in your smoothies and drinks or to make a dessert. Think broad and explore how these powerhouse nuggets can become a bigger part of your diet.
5.Coconut Water
I am going to round out our first list with a quick nod to coconut water. Not sweetened, flavored RTD (ready to drink) coconut water but simple, straightforward, pure coconut water, which helps to keep your electrolytes balanced and your body hydrated. You don’t have a coconut tree or live in the tropics? No worries, if you can get boxed pure coconut water you can also buy dried, unsweetened coconut water powder in stores and online so you can stir up a quart or even take it on the go everyday.

If this list was useful for you, drop me a note - I’d love to hear from you . Plus, if you have any thoughts or requests let me know that too. Be GLAD for all the wonderful food options we have in our lives. Choose wisely.

Contact me if you want a shopping spree or pantry purge session.

Note: Some shopping supplies can also be found on the Resources page. More food related choices will be added.

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