Everything in Moderation

Often when we turn a year older, we make a mental note to begin eating healthier. Exercise more. And we vow that we're going to spend more time meditating and relaxing.  In fact, we do these things that are on the list labeled "getting in shape", but what we don't realize is everything on this list should be done in moderation.

We shouldn't go overboard is the key. Exercising is great, but you have to go easy and listen to your body.  What you did last year, may not be what your body will allow now. 

In regards to healthy foods, did you know there are some that can be bad?  We believe if it's good for us, then we should eat it everyday, right?  Wrong.  Even good things can be bad if we eat too much of it.  

1. Soy - we've heard time and time again that soy is great for helping women stay healthy. However, if you eat too much soy, this can cause problems down the road.  What you have to watch are soy products that are processed - i.e. soy nuts, soymilk, soy burgers - these processed foods do not retain the beneficial compound omega-3 fats.  Some of them are also made from GMO (genetically modified organism) which make them very unhealthy.

2. Vitamin A - too much of this vitamin can weaken bones, hence the excess of people developing osteoporosis and brittle bones.

3. Grapefruit - although this fruit is packed with vitamin C, it can alter some prescription drugs, especially cholesterol meds. After a period of time, it can keep the kidneys from breaking down the meds and causing kidney failure.

4. Broccoli - this veggie can interfere with prescription medication for blood thinning. It can also cause hyperoxaluria if a person who is prone to getting calcium oxalate kidney stones eats more than 1-2 cups.

5. High grit (whole grain breads common in organic bread) and acidic foods (carbonated drinks, uncooked vinegar, citrus and uncooked tomato) - adding these two together can cause Odontolysis, wearing down of the teeth.

6. Veggies with seeds like cucumbers and tomatoes - can cause problems with those who suffer from diverticulitis and can only take 1-2 cups to start the gas.

7. Potatoes, eggplant, peppers, and tomatoes - can cause those who suffer from arthritis more pain - the reason, a chemical called solanine is found in these veggies.  This chemical can cause inflammation in some individuals.

After researching for this article, I found it hard to believe these natural, healthy foods can cause such harm to our bodies. I will continue to research this topic, as I believe that organic, natural foods are the key to good health. Maybe there's a way to get off prescription meds and let our food be our medication. 

Source:

webmd.com, Grapefruit Juice, retrieved November 4, 2008 from http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/tc/grapefruit-juice-and-medication-overview

WebMD, Soy Sense, retrieved October 6, 2008 from http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/features/soy-sense