If you polled your neighbours and friends, you would probably come up with as many opinions of what is healthy eating as the number of people you asked.  We have all heard the cliched expressions:

An Apple a Day

• “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.”
• “Everything in moderation.”
• “Mind your carbs and the calories will take care of themselves.”

We have been selling food as a family for two generations…it is almost 60 years since John’s parents opened up their import store in Renfrew, Ontario. John and I have been bringing European import foods to Welland for over 20 years. We have heard a lot of opinions, too, over those years. If we have learned one thing, it is that there is no healthy food lifestyle that fits everyone. This is particularly true for people living with food allergies.  This past year our family has been on a learning curve adjusting to some significant food allergies. Many healthy foods we used to eat are no longer an option. We have had to redefine what is a healthy food lifestyle for us. Along the way we are learning to be very mindful of what we are putting in our mouths. Nothing is eaten without checking the ingredient label. We have gone back to cooking a lot from scratch…that was always a family value but a busy life can erode important values.

How about you? How do you discover what is a healthy food lifestyle for you?  First, become more aware of what you are eating.  Take the time to know more about the food you are eating.  Second, pay attention to how different foods make you feel. Food affects us physically but also emotionally. We need to be mindful of the ingredients that we put in our mouths. However, food also reminds us of important memories and people who have been significant to us.  Good healthy ingredients can sustain us, special recipes and meals can comfort us.

As John and I launch our new and improved website, we are recommitting to healthy eating and helping our friends discover what a healthy food lifestyle means for them. Come and join us on the journey as we explore good food together!