Making the Shift to Higher Food Quality - What Matters Most?

I don't know if I accomplished what I wanted with this one but my goal was twofold:
1). to help clear up the pecking order for what to focus on the most when you're trying to make improvements to your nutrition and food quality, and
2). reduce guilt when you aren't doing it all "perfectly."

The last thing any of us needs is shaming or guilt when we're genuinely trying to do better.

I'll propose that guilt stress for not doing it "all" and perfectly, is even worse for us than the toxins we're exposed to for not doing it "all" and perfectly.

Research says over 60% of what adult Americans consume is ultra-processed food (UPF). I think that number is a gross underestimation and that UPF consumption is greater than 80%.

Any adjustment you make toward more Real Food and less UPF,is a worthy effort. Feel really good about it!

"I heard that if I don't go organic then whatever I'm buying will be just as bad as junk food." No, not even close.

It's true that organic foods are produced without the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). And some studies suggest that organic foods may have higher levels of certain nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, essential fats, and antioxidants.

Even so? Let any guilt or stress go if you can't find or afford organic.

As You Can:

- Store and microwave food in glass, not plastic.
- Cook with cast iron, stainless steel and ceramic.
- Go organic if it fits your budget.
- For poultry, beef, fish and pork look for free-range, grass-fed, pastured and wild caught.

Priority #1 - Make the shift, as you can, toward Real Food, and away from UPF.

Priority #2 (maybe #1) - As you make the shift let any guilt go when you can't follow all the guidelines.

Remember, progress matters more than perfection. Keep making positive changes as you can. It all counts.