How were we healthier 100 years ago when it seemed like we paid less attention to what we ate? We didn’t obsess over our daily macros, track calories, or worry about whether our food fit into a specific diet. We just ate.

The Simplicity of Eating in the Past

A century ago, we didn’t rely on supplements or incessantly read ingredients lists or macro labels. We didn’t have the same knowledge of what was “good” or “bad” for our bodies. We didn’t question the quality of our food … because there wasn’t anything to question. We ate what was available: fresh, seasonal produce and meat.

Ultra-processed foods? They didn’t exist.

Our produce wasn’t sprayed with harmful chemicals like glyphosate, and we weren’t surrounded by aisles of packaged, “convenience” foods. Food was straightforward. It was natural. It was real.

The lack of processed foods, chemicals, and artificial additives allowed us to thrive. People ate when they were hungry, and when food was available, they were grateful for what they had. The human body is designed to process and digest whole, species-specific food. Meat from animals that were raised traditionally and humanely, and produce grown in nutrient-rich soil, were the staples of our diet.

For the most part, we were healthier.

The Shift to Ultra-Processed Foods

Fast forward to today, and our supermarkets are filled with around 70% ultra-processed foods. And the remaining 30%, the fresh produce and meat? Well, it’s often not as straightforward as it seems. We don’t know how the animals were raised or what they were fed. Were they given hormones, antibiotics, or fed grains and corn that were sprayed with glyphosate? What about our produce, what were they sprayed with?

It's not hard to connect the dots. Over the past century, we’ve seen skyrocketing rates of chronic illnesses, autoimmune diseases, obesity, mental health issues, heart disease, and many other health problems. And the rate of these conditions continues to rise. So, why is this happening?

The Impact of Our Modern Diet

Our bodies are incredibly resilient and have powerful detox organs. But they were not designed to handle the toxic load we are exposed to today. When we consume “foods” filled with synthetic, lab-created ingredients, our bodies don’t recognize them. Instead of supporting our biological processes, these foods hinder them. The result is an increasing toxic burden that accumulates and leads to physical symptoms, and eventually, chronic health issues.

Our supermarkets aren’t designed with our health in mind. They’re focused on profit margins, not what’s best for our bodies. While it’s still possible to make mindful choices in the grocery shop, the best way to protect your health and the health of your family is to take a step back and consider where your food is coming from.

How to Make Better Food Choices for You and Your Family

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the thought of all the changes needed to improve your family’s diet, we understand. This isn’t about making drastic changes overnight. It’s about making small, intentional shifts, one step at a time.

Start by doing a little research. Look into local farms, butchers, beekeepers, and organic stores. Support small-scale, sustainable practices that prioritize quality over mass production. Seek out Facebook groups for local hobby farms or look for community markets where you can connect with producers directly. This is a great way to ask questions about where your meat and produce come from, and it helps build a sense of community.

By supporting local farmers and sustainable food sources, you’re not just improving your own health. You’re helping to preserve farming practices that are humane, ethical, and kind to our planet.

Taking the First Step

I know it can be easier to just grab what’s on sale at the supermarket. Trust me, I get it. It’s convenient. But if you start by making one small change, perhaps choosing a local butcher, and asking where their meat comes from or ordering from a delivery service that sources food from local farms, you’re already on the right path. Those small changes add up over time.

Once you start making these shifts, it becomes easier. It becomes a habit. And when you see the positive effects on your health and your family’s well-being, you’ll realize it was all worth it.

Your Health is Worth the Effort

We’re not here to spread fear or anxiety. The goal of this post is simply to raise awareness and encourage us all to make more intentional choices. Change can feel overwhelming, but remember that your health, and your family’s health, is worth it. A few small changes can make a world of difference, and they’ll continue to multiply as you go. 

Trust your body, trust yourself. Let's heal the world, together.

Lisa x