Tuesday, March 23, 2010

The NAG diet

Thanks to Rikki at dietdessertndogs.com, I now know about the NAG diet, and it sounds great-pretty much how I try to eat now.  What do you think?:


1) NATURAL: foods that are not processed or are minimally processed. So nothing packaged, no frozen dinners, no prepared cakes, cookies, buns, muffins, breads, nothing with preservatives, colorings, additives, chemicals, or anything like that.   If you can eat this way (at least some of the time) you’ll find two things: first, your groceries are cheaper. When you buy brown rice and cook it yourself along with onion, peppers, and herbs, you are paying waaaaay less than buying pre-packaged rice pilaf mix. Second, everything you eat is more filling, more substantial, and, eventually, more satisfying. You’re getting real food, with real nutrition. Oh, and a third, one worth mentioning: everything takes much longer to cook.

2) ALIVE: For optimum health, “live” or raw foods are recommended, 30-50% raw each day). This could mean a fresh apple cut up into cereal, a salad with lunch, baby carrots for a snack, cucumber slices with dinner. Or it could mean a raw almond-veggie pate. Raw foods contain health-enhancing enzymes that help us to digest food better, faster and more efficiently.


3) GOOD QUALITY: this trait refers to many things, but generally think, “organic.” Its absolutely essential is that any animal product be organic. Yes, its more expensive but would you rather pay now or pay later with your health.  As well, local products from producers/farmers you know are a wonderful option as well.  Try your local CSA, farmers market, and such for the best food that may not be organic, but is raised humanely, by people you know and trust, and who infuse their food with loving kindness.  You not only eat well that way, but contribute to saving the planet.

4) PORTION CONTROL. Eat moderate amounts of very healthy foods, with small amounts of less healthy foods (such as beloved desserts or a glass of wine occasionally).  You dont have to eat until you feel full.  Aim to use 9 inch plates or leave at least 1/3 food on bigger plates.  As well, have the veggie portion be double that of the starch and meat (if included).

5) EXERCISE. Technically, not part of the diet, but an integral part of the plan related to it. The mission is to alternate weights/strength training with aerobic exercise, 5 to 6 days a week.

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