Episode 20: Food As Medicine

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Transcript

Have you ever sipped chicken soup when you were sick or brewed some ginger tea for an upset stomach? If so, congratulations, you’ve already used food as medicine—whether you realized it or not!

Long before modern medicine stepped in with prescriptions and procedures, people turned to nature—herbs, spices, and whole foods—to feel better and stay healthy. And here’s the cool part: it still works.

Sure, food isn’t a cure-all. It’s not going to replace your doctor or magically fix every health issue. But eating well can help prevent disease, manage symptoms, and even support recovery. Think of it like giving your body the tools it needs to thrive.

The Cost of Eating Poorly

Poor nutrition doesn’t just leave you feeling crummy—it costs us billions in healthcare each year. Diseases like heart issues, diabetes, and obesity often tie back to what’s on our plates. What if we shifted focus to preventing these problems with smarter food choices instead of just treating them later?

Your Body = Your Vehicle

Let’s use a simple metaphor: your body is a car, and food is the fuel. Fill up with junk, and you’ll sputter. Fuel it with high-quality, nutrient-rich foods? You’ll run like a dream.

One of the worst offenders out there? Sugar.

The Sugar Trap

Ever had that post-lunch crash? You reach for a sugary snack, feel great for a minute, then crash even harder. That cycle? It’s your body riding the sugar rollercoaster.

Too much sugar isn’t just about energy dips—it’s linked to serious health problems like type 2 diabetes and obesity. But the good news? There are better ways to fuel up.

Smarter Snacks = Better Energy

Try these next time you need a boost:

• Apple + peanut butter – fiber + protein = satisfaction.
• Mixed nuts – healthy fats and minerals galore.
• Greek yogurt + berries – protein, probiotics, and antioxidants in one.

These kinds of snacks don’t just power you through the day—they support long-term health.

A Personal Story

Personally, while waiting for hip surgery, I  turned to turmeric, a natural anti-inflammatory, to help manage pain. It didn’t replace the surgery, but it did help reduce inflammation and discomfort naturally. That’s the magic of knowing how to use food to your advantage.

Food Superstars

Here are a few food heroes and what they can do for you:

Nuts:

• Almonds: good for cholesterol.
• Walnuts: brain boosters.
• Pistachios: eye health.
• Cashews: better sleep.
• Brazil nuts: thyroid support.

Spices & Herbs:

• Parsley – kidney support + breath freshener.
• Ginger – digestion, nausea, inflammation.
• Oregano – immune defense.
• Chamomile – calm and restful sleep.
• Garlic – heart health and immune boost.

Each one packs a powerful punch—and tastes great, too.

The Big Takeaway

Yes, we need modern medicine. But let’s not forget the power of a solid, nourishing meal. Whole, nutrient-dense foods can:

• Boost energy
• Strengthen your immune system
• Improve mental clarity
• Lower disease risk

And it’s not about going on some strict diet. It’s about making thoughtful, sustainable changes—little by little.

Start Small

Feeling overwhelmed? No worries. Try starting here:

• Swap chips for nuts or veggies.
• Add one more serving of veggies to your meals.
• Stay hydrated—water and herbal tea are your friends.
• Use healing spices when you cook.
• Pay attention to how food makes you feel—then adjust.

Bottom Line

Every time you eat, you’re making a choice that either helps or hurts your body. So next time you're deciding between the vending machine and something homemade, remember: food is more than fuel—it’s your body’s best medicine.

Choose wisely, and your future self will thank you.

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