Growing up, our household was never too “health conscience” when it came to food. Of course we always had a home-cooked meal at least once a day and my Grandma would often be the one to make those meals since my mom worked night shift and my Grandparents lived right next door! It was always a delicious meal and I often think back and wish I could enjoy those moments again.
We were the average family that bought boxed cereals, little debbie cakes, pizza rolls and pre-packaged “you-name-it”. We loved it, so I’m not knocking anyone who does this! I still love a good oatmeal cream pie! Honestly, my favorite breakfast to this day is what we called “Cocoa & Toast”. It’s literally just buttered toast dipped in chocolate milk! Yes, I said dipped! Let me just tell you, don’t knock it till you try it! Ha, I love it so much that I’ve taught my kids to love it, too! My husband probably thinks I’m crazy, but it’s amazing!
Over the years, I’ve loved learning better ways to eat healthier. But let’s get real, it’s hard to stick with it. It can’t be a cold turkey change. I honestly think it starts small so it can be a lifestyle change. There are lots of other things you can do to start eating healthier, but today I want to give you 7 simple switches you can make in your pantry.
- Cane Sugar
Instead of using white sugar, make the switch to raw cane sugar. White sugar is highly processed and bleached, which then it contains chemicals that are not beneficial to our bodies. We may not notice any dangerous side affects to white sugar, but slowly it takes a toll on us through weight gain, diabetes and many other medical issues. Please hear me, I’m not saying that if you switch to raw cane sugar, you won’t have these issues any more. All I’m suggesting is to use food that is better for our bodies. Also, I’m not saying that all of these suggestions will cure current health issues, I’m simply sharing my love of learning and healthy living.
You might be asking, “Where do I find Raw Cane Sugar?” Walmart, Aldi and Meijer carries a brand that I really like called Zulka. It’s reasonably priced and tastes amazing! You can probably find it on Amazon as well if these stores are not accessible to you.
2. Pink Himalayan Sea Salt
Switching to pink himalayan sea salt is a simple and cost effective change that I’m so excited about. Table salt or iodized salt can really cause health issues like high blood pressure and heart disease. Sea salt has many benefits such as regulating blood pressure, replenishes electrolytes (because it contains minerals) and is great for skin health. Our family doesn’t worry about using too much salt because it’s got so many good benefits/nutrients in it.
A little secret that I recently found is you can find good Pink Himalayan Sea Salt at the Dollar Tree. You can get a pound for only $1.25 instead of $5 dollars/pound from the Health Food Store. I’ve always got my pantry stocked now!
3. Olive Oil
There are lots of different oils out there that are way better than vegetable oil and canola oil. A simple health switch to using 100% pure olive oil makes a huge difference. I’ve chosen to use olive oil instead of avocado oil, sunflower oil, coconut oil, and many of the other oils out there mainly because the taste is similar to vegetable oil and its more cost effective.
I have been getting my Olive Oil from Sams Club. It’s the best price that I have found. But, even if I can’t get to Sams, I have found it at Walmart or Aldi for a decent price. Getting good fats in your diet is very important for skin health and heart health. Which brings me to the next food item.
4. Real Butter
Not only does real butter taste better, it also is a healthier fat that is good for our bodies. The reason I say, “Real Butter” is because I don’t mean butter that is made with vegetable oils or palm oils. Those may be considered margarine. Switching to real butter is a great step to better health.
5. Unbleached Flour
I haven’t used regular All-Purpose flour in many years because most of our family has a gluten intolerance. However, I do still believe that making the switch to an unbleached flour is better. Eliminating as many highly processed foods is best, in my opinion. You may even want to use a whole wheat unbleached flour or an ancient grain of some sort.
6. Dark Chocolate
In this household, chocolate is always stocked and frequently raided by the kids. Well, and myself! We’ve all have heard the benefits of eating Dark Chocolate vs. Milk Chocolate. You know, a good source of antioxidants, good for blood flow and brain function. It also contains less sugar the higher percentage of cocoa you get. I’ve eaten 90% dark before and its next to eating cocoa powder, but I find that I like the 64% dark the best. You don’t have to eat the bitter stuff, but slowly switching to a better chocolate is a great step.
7. Apple Cider Vinegar
I have always used apple cider vinegar when cooking and baking, so this wasn’t a big change for me. However, I’ve learned that most white vinegars can be made from corn which can be an allergen for some people. Apple Cider Vinegar has many health benefits such as boosting immunity, balance blood sugar, can act as a detox and so much more.
I hope you find these tips and suggestions helpful. I enjoy learning about what helps our bodies function and feel better. Let me know what you think? What are some things you have incorporated into your diet? I’d love to hear about it!
With Love,
This Farmhouse Wife