Top Reasons Why a Healthy Diet Matters to Me (& Why It Matters to You Too)

Almost every expert discusses the importance of finding your "why" before making any substantial lifestyle change. 

 

That's because you need a good reason to keep going when the going gets tough or your old habits seem more manageable. 

 

At this point in my journey, healthy eating is habitual for me. 

 

But I started out as a beginner, just like everyone else; modifying habits I had built up over decades felt uncomfortable. Having reasons that mattered to me made a big difference in helping me stay the course through the discomfort. 

 

Hi I'm Ashley. Here are 6 of my biggest reasons for following a healthy diet, in no particular order. Some of my reasons may resonate with you!

 

REASON #1: To be around for my family 

Numerous studies have demonstrated the health benefits of the Mediterranean diet. It's one of the most highly researched diets in the world, and the health benefits are impressive!

 

A recent European study found that higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet and lifestyle is associated with a 29% lower risk of all-cause mortality. Many other studies have found similar benefits.

 

None of us are guaranteed a long life, regardless of our lifestyles!!

 

However, I feel great knowing I am giving myself the best chance to be around to watch my kiddos grow up— and, hopefully, my grandchildren.

 

This is particularly important to me, as I lost my Mom to cancer as a teenager. I know the devastation of losing a parent.

 

REASON #2: To feel great 

I may have started a Mediterranean Diet for better health, but I keep eating it because it makes me feel amazing!

 

Robust evidence links a Mediterranean lifestyle to improvements in mental well-being, and I've found that true.

 

On the days I eat primarily whole, natural foods with lots of healthy fats and plants, I have better energy, focus, and a sense of calm.

 

Research has indicated that people who followed a strict Mediterranean diet had a 33% lower risk of being diagnosed with depression. Many studies point to the anti-inflammatory effect of a Mediterranean Diet leading to these benefits.

 

Researchers also note that anxiety symptoms can likely improve with a combination of plant-based foods like fruits, veggies, legumes, and omega-3 fatty acids from fish.

 

REASON #3: The health benefits (short and long-term) are incredible! 

Amid all fad diets, one eating style consistently wins the Mediterranean Diet.

 

It earns first-place rights for its impressive health benefits, including heart protection, weight regulation, aging support, and cancer reduction.

 

The typical Mediterranean diet foods—fish, nuts, beans, fruits, and vegetables—help lower inflammation in your body, improve blood vessel function, and reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome and diabetes.

 

If you can replace some of the least healthy foods you consume regularly with some Mediterranean Diet options, you will make great strides toward improving your long-term and short-term health.

 

REASON #4: Because it's DELICIOUS and flexible 

The health benefits of a Mediterranean Diet are excellent. 

 

But you cannot stick with a nutrition plan that tastes terrible, doesn't bring you joy, or requires you to eat the same foods repeatedly.

 

When I was testing out different ways of eating, one style allowed a limited number of breakfast foods, mainly eggs. You could get creative and have something like leftover dinner, but for the most part, it was eggs—so many eggs.

 

After about two weeks, I was out. This could have been the healthiest diet ever, but I would not have stuck with it.

 

Happily, the Mediterranean Diet is world-renowned for promoting excellent health; it's also delicious and versatile!

 

Here are some options for breakfast: 

Oatmeal: hot or overnight oats with tons of toppings

Chia seed pudding: topped with berries, chocolate, nut butter

Whole wheat Toasts or English muffins with avocado, nut butter, etc

Smoothies: any variety!

Eggs: scrambled, over easy, hard-boiled, etc

Even more: yogurt, smoked salmon, cottage cheese, healthy homemade muffins or pancakes

More breakfast options are HERE. Plus, lunch ideas are HERE. And things to snack on HERE.

 

REASON #5: To avoid cancer

My Mom died from cancer when I was a teenager.

 

It was that terrible experience that ultimately drove me to seek out the healthiest possible lifestyle, especially after the birth of my daughter.

 

Holding that first baby in my arms, I knew I would do everything possible to be here for her.

 

Also, I desperately wanted to experience all the beautiful "firsts" with her that my own beloved Mom didn't get to experience with me: seeing her go to college, get married, and maybe raise children of her own.

 

Not one of us is guaranteed a day in this life.

 

And yet, the American Cancer Society estimates that 1/3 of cancer deaths are related to lifestyle choices.

 

So, while some diseases, even cancer, may be unavoidable no matter my choices, I feel empowered knowing that I am doing all I can to give myself the best possible chance at a long, healthy life.

 

One recent study estimated that following a Mediterranean Diet may reduce cancer risk by almost 30%. Other studies have corroborated this finding.

 

If you are just getting started, know that peeling back the onion to find your deepest 'why' will inspire and motivate you to make the transition to a healthier lifestyle much more accessible.

 

Also, we know that all our resources were expertly designed to make the transition to a Mediterranean lifestyle smooth and seamless. Our Jumpstart Program helps you find your "why" and then progresses to actionable nutrition principles to help you start taking action today.

 

Hopefully, we will find a cure for cancer someday. As we wait, I plan to take steps that give me the best odds to prevent it. 

 

REASON #6: To Stay Active as I Age

Healthy eating supports an active lifestyle, which allows me to show for my life in all the important ways.

 

It's important that when my kids ask me to play with them, I can say YES. Playing might involve hockey in the driveway, a dance party in our kitchen, or a scavenger hunt around our neighborhood. I need energy and stamina to keep up with them!

 

I also find jogging is a fantastic stress reliever and mood booster for me. Plus, it gives me some much-needed "me" time (maybe other moms can relate to this) and keeps my heart healthy.

 

On the days that I eat junk, I generally do not feel energetic enough to do any of these things. Eating a Mediterranean Diet supports an active lifestyle.  

 

As an added bonus, I credit great nutrition with helping me get to the starting line of my first marathon in over 15 years. As a 40-something, I have found that optimal, anti-inflammatory nutrition is more important than ever in helping me stay injury-free.

 

 

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