What we eat matters

by Dr. Christina Miller

What we eat matters. This seems more true now than ever. Every bite we put into our mouths affects our nutrient status, microbiome, cellular function, and current and long-term health. As a plant-based physician, I have the great honor of witnessing this every day.

Chronic illnesses, such as heart disease, diabetes, autoimmune disease, headaches, arthritis, asthma, and eczema are greatly affected by what we eat and how we live. Even how well our immune system functions and our response to viruses are affected by our food choices.

I’ve made a few observations over the past years as a plant-based physician that I’d like to share:

1. Eating a well-designed, plant-based diet really does have the power to prevent and reverse many chronic illnesses.
2. Good gut health is vital to good overall health. Addressing this early on can lead to more rapid, improved results.
3. Most people can eat more dark leafy greens.
4. There’s no one right way to make changes. Some people benefit by jumping all in and overhauling their diets; others, take one small step at a time. Both can lead to creating new habits and significant health improvements.
5. Never underestimate the healing power of taking time to rest, unwind, laugh, and play (yes, even as adults).
6. People are resourceful, resilient, and surprise even themselves sometimes.

With the start of the New Year, I challenge each of you to step up your own nutrition plan, eat more greens, and set health goals for the New Year.

What new habits are you creating? Do you have resources you can call on? Do you have a vision of your healthiest self? This is a good time to show off your resiliency. With this, you'll likely surprise yourself this year with improved health and more joy!