Nutrition 101: Eating for Optimal Health

In this day and age, people are learning so much more about the benefits of proper nutrition... not just for losing weight, but also for warding off disease and just achieving optimal health.

Most chronic diseases are not reversible, so prevention is key.

Nutrition plays a huge part in that prevention.

Special guest, Steven Villagomez, heads up the exercise and nutrition section of the ComiteMD program, and in this segment he joins Andrea and Lisa to share some of the basics of proper nutrition.

For instance, at the ComiteMD center, they recommend a high-protein diet. Protein not only helps maintain strength but also builds lean tissue, which is so vital as men and women age. In fact, the biggest predictor of quality of life is muscular strength.

What types of foods should you be eating to get the best protein?

Grass-fed beef is optimal, mostly because the meat is higher in Omega-3s (as opposed to corn-fed beef, which is higher in Omega-6 fatty acids). Fatty fish such as salmon and free-range chicken and free-range, Omega-3 enriched eggs are also great options.

Fermented dairy (kefir, Greek yogurt) is an easy way to get a lot of protein in your diet without a lot of calories or artificial flavors.

In addition to a high-protein, you should also focus on an alkaline diet heavy in fruits, vegetables and healthy fats. Fat is your friend. Many of the healthy fats are anti-inflammatory, which aids in longevity as well.

Tune in to learn more about Steven's approach to proper nutrition, as well as tips for improving your diet.