Living in the age of convenience

In our fast-paced world of long work hours, travel, convenience and commercialism, the United States population has redefined "American" to be a bagged, boxed and packaged lifestyle. According to nutrition experts, the average Western diet contains too much fat and too little fiber. The combination of low fiber and overconsumption of highly refined carbohydrates and fat, contributes to an increased risk of heart disease and diabetes. This lifestyle of processed food, combined with nutrient depletion of our soils, leaves us in a state of deficiency.

Both conventional and complementary medical authorities believe that the average Western diet is not ideal, since it is linked to poor health. A good diet should consist of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains legumes, nuts and seeds and fish.

Taking our country's nutritional concerns one step further, the U.S. population spends over $300 billion in pharmaceuticals and many of them may contribute to nutrient depletion or health challenges that could be improved with better lifestyle choices. With simple steps, we can help balance our health within the world around us.