For years, I have heard about the great benefits of eating natural and, more importantly, organic foods. The hype around this trend was something that I just didn't buy into, but, now it seems like all around us there are people dealing with cancer, heart problems, diabetes and other health issues. So, I had to wonder- Is there something more I should be doing for my family's health? I started researching the effects of additives and preservatives, as well as the difference between organic and natural foods. I was shocked to see what the FDA allows manufacturers to put into the food that we eat every day, and what that does to our bodies. I always joke around that I don't watch Dr Oz, because every time I do, I have to give up something that I love. But the more research I have done, the more I realize how bad the things I love are for me and my family. So, I decided that it was time to make a change. For the past few months, we have tried to eat mostly natural foods, and as much organic food as possible. It's surprising how difficult that is- especially when it comes to things like artificial flavoring, artificial color and high fructose corn syrup. And no matter how many commercials they make saying it's the same as sugar- trust me, it isn't. Of coarse, not everything we eat is natural or organic. If we eat out or at someone's house, the ingredients are out of our control. But, I think controlling what I can helps a lot more than doing nothing at all.
A couple of weeks ago, Olivia and I were shopping and decided to stop for lunch. She wanted to eat at McDonald's- which I refuse to do. After a long discussion, we settled on going to Grateful Bread, which is the only place around here that serves natural and organic foods. While I waited 30 minutes in the crowded dining room to get a sandwich, I browsed through their menu and a list of homemade baked goods that they sell. I realized two things at Grateful Bread that day. 1- organic food is obviously important to a lot of people, and 2- I could make just about everything on their menu. That's when it hit me- I could spend my weekends and afternoons doing something that I love- baking fresh breads, muffins, cookies and all of the other yummy stuff that my family loves. Even the organic food I shop for has to be packaged and shipped to the store, so the only way to know exactly what is in it would be to make it myself. So, that's what I have decided to do! I am so excited to get started!! I have made a list of breads, pastries and pies that I want to try to turn into a healthy treat for the kids- and tonight I'm going to start by making fresh honey wheat bread for them to take for lunch. I think I may even bake some muffins for breakfast! Hopefully, it will be delicious! And hopefully I can teach my children to make healthy choices instead of reaching for potato chips or candy.
... Now, If I could just get them to eat all of their veggies!
No comments:
Post a Comment