In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, the essence of family often takes a backseat. However, what if we told you that a simple shift in our approach to food could unlock not just a healthier lifestyle but also strengthen the bonds within your family? Join us on a journey into the world of nutrient-dense foods, the joy of living closer to our sustenance, and the transformative power of nature on the well-being of your family.
Recent studies have opened our eyes to the profound impact of nutrient-dense foods on family health. When we consciously choose foods rich in essential nutrients, we not only nourish our bodies but also set the stage for academic success in our children. A study by the American Journal of Public Health found that children who regularly consume nutrient-dense foods exhibit better academic performance than their peers with less nutritious diets. The link between nutrition and educational achievement is a testament to the power of mindful eating in shaping the academic trajectory of our kids (Reference: American Journal of Public Health).
By now most folks generally understand that mass-produced foods contain added ingredients like preservatives and flavorings, which contribute to overall nutrient density and thus lead to potential health implications. However, did you know that it is also important to eat more freshly picked foods? Here are a few fun facts to know:
According to a study published in the Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, some fruits and vegetables can experience nutrient loss during storage, affecting their overall nutritional quality (Reference: Rickman, J. C., et al. (2007). Nutritional comparison of fresh, frozen, and canned fruits and vegetables II. Vitamin A and carotenoids, vitamin E, minerals and fiber. Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, 87(7), 1185-1196).
Research in the Journal of Food Science found that the duration and conditions of transportation can contribute to nutrient degradation in fruits and vegetables, highlighting the importance of locally sourced produce (Reference: Moure, A., et al. (2001). Ascorbic acid content of selected vegetables and fruit from Argentina. Journal of Food Science, 66(9), 1292-1297).
The Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry reports that exposure to light and air can lead to nutrient loss in certain vegetables, emphasizing the importance of minimizing post-harvest time for optimal nutrition (Reference: Dewanto, V., et al. (2002). Thermal processing enhances the nutritional value of tomatoes by increasing total antioxidant activity. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 50(10), 3010-3014).
Okay, so it is healthier if you eat fruits and vegetables that are grown fresh near your home instead of processed foods. However, nutrient-dense foods not only impact how healthy we as people are but also impact what we eat too, such as beef or chicken. Michael Pollan, a Renowned Author, and Activist promotes, “You are what you eat eats.” This insightful quote reminds us that our food choices extend beyond our plates. By opting for nutrient-dense foods, we not only fuel our bodies but also contribute to a healthier food system that resonates with nature’s wisdom. The Journal of Animal Science and Biotechnology discusses how animal feed composition affects the nutrient content of meat and dairy products, highlighting the importance of feed quality in ensuring nutritional value when you cook meat products.
Our objective at Eden is much more than constructing a neighborhood of homes. Instead, we seek to create neighborhood communities that bring families closer to highly nutrient-dense foods. Those highly nutritious foods can be picked fresh just down a walking path from your home. Your family can share in the fun of picking the food that will feed you for dinner that night or enjoy a delicious apple from one of our community orchards. As Alice Waters, Culinary Pioneer and Founder of Chez Panisse once said, “Every time you eat is an opportunity to nourish your body.” Her encouragement to view every meal as a chance to nurture our bodies and familial connections is perfectly aligned with our development plan for Eden. In closing we believe that nutrient-dense foods are the building blocks of a thriving family and local neighborhood community, fostering vitality and well-being.
