REAL talk: the other day someone called me a picky eater. I was gobsmacked. (side note: what a fun word that is!) When I asked them what they meant, they said “well, you only eat healthy food”. Hmmmm... After I got over my incredulity at this judgement, and explained about how all foods fit in my world (just some more often than others) and that I actually eat a wide variety of foods, thank you very much, I got thinking... And you know what? I get what they were saying. I’m not picky. But I AM choosy.
I choose to fuel my body with mostly nourishing foods that help me feel my best and promote optimal health. So lots of veggies and fruits, as well as whole grains, nuts, seeds, eggs, yogurt, legumes, lean meats. You get the picture.
But, I also love some of those foods that might be consider “unhealthy” (conversation for another day, but let's keep in mind, one food won't make or break your health).
Let's take chocolate for example. I love chocolate. And yeah, it’s usually a really nice, high quality dark chocolate (because that’s what I enjoy) but I don’t deprive myself of other types of chocolate (yay, mini eggs season is here!).
I choose homemade meals and snacks most often and I skip most cheap fast food. But I do love a good meal out. And one of my favourite foods is pizza - but not fast food pizza - I like a wood oven pizza with interesting toppings. I like real ice cream -- no "low cal" ice cream tubs for me.
I'll pay a little more for foods that I consider to be good quality because they taste better. I get that I'm fortunate to be able to do that. Not everyone can shop at small specialty food stores like my favourite Picone Fine Foods in Dundas (and I don't do that all the time either -- I shop at Food Basics for some basics too!)
So you get the picture. AND...this is ME. It’s what I prefer. It’s how I like to eat. It might not be right for YOU.
I’ll do me. You do you.
I choose to share some of the deliciousness I enjoy here on my blog and on social media to show how it can be simple to eat well. Maybe it will inspire folks to try something new or make a positive change for the health of it.
Speaking of simply delicious foods, here's the easy peasy recipe for this lovely overnight oats in the photo above. It's by an uber talented dietitian and photography (she does food and weddings too!), Cindy Bekkedam. Give her a follow on Instagram.
Cindy's Chocolate Raspberry Overnight Oats
Let this mixture sit overnight for best results)
1 cup raspberries (frozen is fine) 2 cups of rolled or quick oats 1/4 cup dark choc chips 1 cup milk (of your choices) 1/2 tsp vanilla extract 2 tbsp chia seeds 2 tbsp honey
Divide into two containers and top with Greek yogurt + warm raspberry compote if you desire.
Enjoy!
Vibrantly Yours
Shannon