Read Lesson 1

Lesson Summary

Food is the main source of fuel for our bodies. It gives us the energy we need to do everything we do, from breathing to running to thinking. Nourishment means taking care of our bodies with food and hydration, so that we can function at our best. The quality of the fuel we put in our bodies matters a lot. The best fuel comes from natural foods that are unprocessed or minimally processed, such as vegetables, fruits, eggs, dairy, meats, beans, nuts, grains, oils like olive and avocado oil, and more. These foods contain nutrients that our bodies need, such as vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, protein, healthy fats, and fiber. They’re easier for our bodies to digest and use as energy. They also help us feel full and satisfied longer.

Usually, processed foods and sugars are not good fuel sources. They are often high in sugar, salt, and additives, but low in nutrients. Highly processed foods often give us cravings and make it easier to overeat. They can also affect our health and performance in negative ways. They can make us feel tired, sluggish, moody, and sick. They can increase our risk of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic diseases. We should eat food based on how it makes us feel, not just how it tastes. Eating natural foods can help us sleep better, have more energy, improve our mood and concentration, and live longer. Eating natural foods is one of the best ways to nourish our bodies and fuel our lives.

Key Takeaways

• Food is the main source of fuel for our bodies and it gives us the energy we need to do everything we do. Nourishment means taking care of our bodies with food and hydration, so that we can function at our best.
• The best fuel comes from natural foods that are unprocessed or minimally processed, such as vegetables, fruits, eggs, dairy, meats, beans, nuts, grains, and oils like olive and avocado oil. These foods contain nutrients that our bodies need, such as vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, protein, healthy fats, and fiber. They are easier for our bodies to digest and use as energy.
• Processed foods and sugars are usually not good fuel sources. They are often high in sugar, salt, and additives, but low in nutrients. They can make us crave them more and are often easier to overeat. They can increase our risk of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic diseases.
• We should eat food based on how it makes us feel, not just how it tastes. Eating natural foods can help us sleep better, have more energy, improve our mood and concentration, and live longer. Eating natural foods is one of the best ways to nourish our bodies and fuel our lives.