Healthy Eating | For Healthier Hair & Body + Meal Ideas
Eating healthy can be challenging in the beginning but has its rewards when you stick with it. Many of the physical and mental challenges we experience, stems from the food that we eat. Some foods can be linked to anxiety and depression because they are considered to be low vibration (processed) foods. These foods have minimal to no nutritional value because of the many processes that it goes through before it makes it to your table.
So how do these low vibration foods effect your hair and mental health? It is simple, eating foods that have no nutritional value cannot provide the nutrients that your hair and body needs. Sugary and salty foods are non-beneficial to your hair and body, and leave you feeling anxious and tired. The point of this blog is to show you different food options to consider, not to control how you eat.
Consider Going Plant-Based
Plant-based is a diet/lifestyle that concentrates largely on foods that come from plants and less on meats or animal by-products (i.e. eggs and marshmallows). Eating plant-based is beneficial in many areas, but the most important area is the wallet because it can be more cost efficient. For the past 3 months, I have switched to a plant-based lifestyle and I have seen changes in my mental and physical health. It is important to be mindful of processed vegan foods that contain soy and lab processed meats. Pseudo meats and soy-based products can have negative side effects on the skin and reproductive system; if you decide to consume those foods, do so in moderation.
The downside to being plant-based is that you will miss out on the vitamins and protein that come from poultry. So you will have to be extra careful to get all your nutrients from the right fruits, vegetables, nuts, and grains. So, is a plant-based diet right for you? Your best bet is to consult your nutritionist before making the switch.
Use Less Salt
Sure, you want your food to be flavorful, but did you know that too much salt can gradually cause hair loss? When you consume high sodium foods all the time, sodium deposits can build-up around the follicle causing decreased blood circulation. Minimal to no blood circulation around the follicles can cause hair thinning/loss. According to a Harvard study, the daily recommended amount of sodium intake should be 500mg; however, most Americans consume 1.5 teaspoons or 3400mg of sodium per day. To use less salt in your diet, simply try seasoning your foods without salt. In most cases, when you use marinades or dressings, those condiments already contain about 400mg-600mg of sodium; that is above your daily recommended intake. Should you cut salt completely out of your diet, no. Your body needs salt for nerve and muscle function. Also, sodium helps regulate water in our bodies.
Sugar Isn't Always Sweet
To all the candy connoisseur's out there, this section is for us. Consuming too much added sugar can wreak havoc on the body. Added sugar can cause inflammation along with other body health disorders. A high-sugar diet can cause high blood sugar which has a negative impact on normal hair growth. High blood sugar can restrict blood flow, resulting in your cells receiving less oxygen. An important factor to keep in mind is that not all sugar is created alike. Natural sugar and added sugar are completely different and come from different sources. Added sugar is used to enhance sweetness and extend the shelf life of foods. Natural sugar has not been known to cause inflammation and is commonly found in fruits and vegetables; many of which are considered to be anti-inflammatory.
You Should Eat Carbs?
If you think you have to stay away from carbohydrates, then think again. I used to think all carbs were bad, but then I learned the difference between good carbs and bad carbs (yes, some carbs are actually good). The "bad carbs" also known as refined carbs, have all the nutrients removed from them. Eating refined carbs are prone to cause blood sugar spikes, weight gain, and fatigue. "Good carbs" or whole carbs provide a more well-balanced diet, create fullness, and create energy. So how do you know which carbs to eat? The good carbs typically come from the Earth.
Where Should I Start?
Now that you have a few examples of what to eat and what not to eat, I will share a few meals that I have been eating over the past few months. There are many quick and easy healthy recipe ideas that can be found via the internet. My favorite place to search for any inspiration is Pinterest. Cookbooks can also be a great source of inspiration.
Nutty Granola Cereal
If you are a fan of granola and have no nut allergies, than you will like this recipe. Inspired by Trish Sebben-Krupka, this plant-based recipe is quick and easy to bake.
INGREDIENTS:
- 4 cups - rolled oats (not instant)
- 2 TB. - light brown sugar
- 1 tsp. - ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp. - kosher salt
- 1/2 cup - grapeseed oil
- 1/2 cup - chopped pecans, walnuts, or your favorite nut
- 1/2 cup - raisins
- 1/4 cup - pepitas
If you would like to see this recipe made, feel free to watch The Kurldom's video on the making of this granola here.
Tofu & Kale Bowl
With added vitamin K from kale and healthy fats such avocado, this bowl is filling and easy to meal prep for a long work week. If you are not a fan of kale you can use collard greens; however, be mindful of your salt measurements.
INGREDIENTS:
- Sautéed kale or collard greens
- Tofu
- Sautéed green & red bell peppers
- Fresh avocado
- Cherry Tomatoes (any assortment)
For sauce
- Tahini
- Lemon Juice
- Coconut Amino
- Apple Cider Vinegar
- Garlic Powder
Full video can be watched here.
Vegan Egg Scramble
Yes there are plant-based egg alternatives. This vegan egg alternative still provides the egg texture if you want to switch from animal protein.
INGREDIENTS:
- Just Egg (vegan)
- Avocado
- Diced red onion
- Spinach
- Tomatoes
- Chickpeas
- Red bell pepper
- Jalapeños (optional)
- salt (optional) & pepper
Watch full video here.
Mushroom Taco Bowl
If you love taco bowls or tacos in general, but you wish to stay away from dairy. Here is a perfect taco bowl recipe that I have fallen in love with.
INGREDIENTS:
- Sautéed Mushrooms w/ teriyaki marinade, garlic & onion powder
- Vegan shredded cheese
- Red cherry tomatoes
- Fresh guacamole w/ lemon juice & diced red onions
- Shredded romaine lettuce
- Black beans
- Vegan sour cream
If you have enjoyed this blog, than I encourage you to take a look at our other blogs here on the website. Additionally, I encourage all readers to subscribe to The Kurldom's YouTube channel to get behind the scenes look of The K.E.O and the making of Kultured Kurlz products. Thank you all for reading this blog, I hope this has encouraged you to start or continue a healthier lifestyle.
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