Embracing Change: Overcoming the Fear and Finding Food Freedom

Change is constant, yet fear can hold us back. Lets explores common fears of change and offers practical tips to overcome them. Embrace change, grow, and discover more about yourself on the journey to personal freedom and self-improvement!

As we continue this journey together, let’s take a moment to reflect: What observations have you made about the foods you eat? We've learned to pay attention to how different foods affect us—what makes us feel better, what drains us, and what energizes us.

Recently, I felt the need for a change. With everything happening in the world, I found myself feeling blocked and paralyzed. It reminded me that everything begins in our guts, so perhaps mine could use a little clearing. This led me to consider: What does a cleanse mean for you?

In my quest for clarity, I decided to shift my focus more toward vegetables and less complex carbs while still enjoying beef and chicken. After all, we have some of the best grass fed beef in the world! Just the other night, I had a delicious steak salad. I’m also incorporating more soluble fiber into my diet to help cleanse my system.

So, let’s talk about this! Are you open to a conversation about keeping our bodies clean and how nutrition plays a role? I’ve been engaged in a course for four weeks, and I’m excited to share insights that could benefit us all.

Lately, I’ve been using aloe juice mixed with magnesium powder before bed. It’s become part of my evening routine, and I can already feel the difference - yes, with the purpose of cleansing. Another favorite is Braggs Apple Cider Vinegar with Cayenne and Lemon Juice (2 T mixed with 8 oz. water).

Now, let’s dive deeper into the gut-brain connection. This connection is crucial, influencing our mood, energy levels, and overall health. There’s another blog that focuses on this, but let’s understand that a well nourished gut activates serotonin and sends healthy messages to your brain. Similarly, when you feel good, your brain is sending healthy messages to your gut. They work together more than most people understand.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on this! Which foods make you feel your best?

Soluble fibers have been a game-changer. I’ve discovered that easily digestible vegetables, like carrots and various potatoes (tubers), play a significant role in how I feel. Did you know that all tubers, including regular potatoes, can be beneficial? While they may be starchy, they aren’t gluten, so there’s no need for me to shy away from them.

So, which foods truly nourish you? Think about what makes you feel your best. If it’s dark chocolate or a bowl of ice cream, that’s perfectly fine; however, I’m not talking about quick sugar rushes. I mean the foods that genuinely energize you, that help you feel satiated and thinking straight.

Have you thought about how you feel from different foods? It might seem like a silly question, but let’s be real with ourselves. If we want to make healthier choices, we first need to acknowledge how we feel from what we eat.

Some foods make us feel tired and sleepy, or bloated and gassy. While others help us feel well and even motivated to take a walk.

I’ve heard people say, “I’d rather take a prescription pill than focus on my nutrition.” It’s a reality for many, and it’s disheartening to me. Some individuals opt for medications like Ozempic for weight loss, which can be concerning. While I appreciate their desire for change, I worry about the long-term effects and what happens when they stop taking those shots.

If it’s not a life or death decision, I’ll always choose a natural approach. There are nutritional strategies that we can employ rather than relying on synthetic medications. It’s about making informed choices that align with our long-term wellness goals. Let’s explore some of the nutritional avenues that can lead us to better health.

Consider this: Many individuals struggle for three to four years, feeling poorly and taking meds that don’t help, while hoping to resolve their symptoms. One of the underlying problems with Western medicine is that most doctors receive limited training in nutrition. They might refer you to a nutrition specialist, but many patients don’t realize that this option could help them feel better, so they don’t know to ask for nutritional guidance.

Some might argue that genetic predispositions dictate their health, but I have a different perspective. Take my father, for example. At 94 years old, he never battled cancer. His secret? A consistent exercise routine, a positive mindset, and a balanced diet, which he maintained most of his life. Mind you, he wasn’t on any prescription meds for 94 years and he was the only sibling of eight who never had cancer until his final 95th year when he had skin cancer among other aging issues that wore him out.

While you may be genetically predisposed to certain health issues, you can mitigate these risks through conscious choices:

• Avoiding environmental toxins.
• Prioritize nutritious foods.
• Incorporate regular movement into your life.

This isn’t just speculation; it’s backed by research.

Let’s take a closer look at gluten and dairy, as they are among the most common dietary sensitivities people experience. Research shows that approximately one in three people may have some level of gluten sensitivity.

Common Symptoms of Gluten Sensitivity:

• Congestion
• Gastrointestinal issues
• Heavy perspiration
• Headaches
• Cognitive issues (like brain fog)

If you relate to any of these symptoms, it might be worth exploring a gluten-free trial.

Start small. Maybe eliminate gluten from one meal a day. Choose the meal where you think it would be easiest to make this change. For example, if you often have sandwiches for lunch, try swapping out bread for a salad or a gluten-free option. As we continue to explore our food choices, remember that these small adjustments can lead to significant improvements in how we feel and function.

Let’s shift gears and talk about meal prep! I encourage everyone to share their thoughts and experiences in the comments, as your insights may inspire others.

I’m not vegan or vegetarian, but I’m focusing on incorporating more plant-based foods into my diet. Recently, I made a delicious lentil curry with coconut milk, carrots, onions, and other great ingredients. I shared a video of the process on my personal Facebook page!

For sides, I sautéed some kale in chicken stock (though I have vegetable stock for my vegan friends) and cooked brown rice. Brown rice is a healthier option compared to white rice and pairs well with lentils to create a complete protein.

After preparing the lentil dish, I portioned it into four glass containers, which will be good for a few days. I also have the kale and rice ready to go. When it’s time for animal protein, I can cook that up easily without needing to prepare additional sides if I don’t want to.

I also recommend sweet potatoes as my preferred potato choice. While I’m not a huge fan of microwaving, you can wrap a sweet potato in a damp paper towel and microwave it for about five minutes. I usually enjoy the skin, but for now, I'm removing it to keep things gentle on my digestive system.

Embracing change isn’t just about nutrition; it’s about transforming your life. So, let’s keep this conversation going! If you have thoughts or questions, feel free to share. Your engagement can help illuminate this critical topic for all of us.

By embracing change, confronting fears, and making informed nutritional choices, you unlock the freedom that comes with a healthier, more vibrant life.I want everyone to benefit, be healthier, and avoid unnecessary doctor visits and prescriptions. Let’s live long, healthy lives together! Try some clearing activities and see how they feel.

Together, let’s take the steps toward embracing change and finding the freedom it brings!

Schedule Your Free Healthy Rhythm Strategy Call

I’ll personally help you:

• Uncover what’s keeping you stuck in your relationship with food
• Gain strategies to build your confidence and trust around your food choices without tracking and restrictions
• Create a personalized action plan to help you feel more balanced and free

Ready to embrace change? Let's work together to make it happen!

Shoshanna Richek, CFNC