Here at Chébona we really try our best to encourage a well-balanced diet. Our belief is that you should eat what you want, but for the best quality of life chose more plant based options over anything else. Indulging in certain foods or treats occasionally is generally not detrimental to overall health. In fact, allowing yourself the occasional indulgences can help maintain a balanced and sustainable approach to eating. The key, however, is moderation and finding a healthy balance between enjoying indulgent foods and maintaining a nutritious diet. The problem we have here in the states is an overwhelming selection of unhealthy or highly processed foods have become the norm for many families and have begin to replace nutrient-dense options.
Without a doubt, the American public is being failed by a system that refuses to encourage dietary guidelines specifically recommending freshly prepared meals over ultra-processed foods. The responsibility to eat healthy shouldn’t fall solely on consumers - especially when it comes to setting a population up for better quality health in the long run. The pathway to a better society starts with the foods we consume. To make effective change will require a group effort from government, the food industry, and general public. Our children deserve better guidance on how to make healthier food choices. Our job is to focus on reducing the amount of ultra-processed foods they are exposed to.
The problem is ultra-processed foods are often designed to be quick and easy to prepare or consume. In a fast-paced society where time is limited, many people simply opt for convenience when it comes to their food choices. Ultra-processed foods offer ready-to-eat or ready-to-heat options that require minimal preparation. On top of that, the industrialization of food production in the food industry has tipped the scale in favor of ultra processed foods by making them more affordable compared to fresh or minimally processed alternatives. Lastly, marketing and advertising lends a heavy hand at promoting ultra-processed products, often targeting specific demographics. The end result is a population of consumers and general public programmed and willing to devour these products.
In reality, food policies and regulations need adjusting. The food industry is subject to various regulations, sure. But is it enough? The current regulatory framework simply does not adequately address the negative health impacts of ultra-processed foods. America is the number 1 export of corn, sugar and soy, all of which are commonly used in ultra-processed food production. Cultural and dietary shifts really need to be considered to ensure better health for future generations. Changes in lifestyle, eating habits, and dietary patterns have contributed to the increased consumption of ultra-processed foods. A shift back towards traditional cooking practices will play a huge roll in improving our chances at better quality health for our nation.
