As people we know are privately engaging COVID19 effects in their bodies, I am reminded that we hold the key to our own wellness. We have some control over how optimal our immune system reacts and functions. While it’s true that our DNA can’t be changed, we can change the way our DNA is expressed… opening the door for creating our own destiny. We create our own future regardless of what our DNA’s weak links are. The science of epigenetics (changes in gene expression) and neuroplasticity (brain’s ability to reorganize synaptic connections) invite us on a journey of dreaming our highest potential and a path to get there. We work with our current DNA… and we leap to a reality of how we make it express better and respond stronger. Yes, we can do this, even for those of us with predictive ancestrage conditions like heart disease, diabetes, obesity, autoimmunity, and even some cancers. How do we do this? In a nutshell, we have to feed our immune system what it needs AND we have to change our behaviors to make our brain constantly learn things. It’s a process and we know it works! That’s the exciting part! This month we’ll talk about the food choices that are OPTIMAL; and next month we’ll talk about the behavior changes that are OPTIMAL.
I’m going to make it simple for you to always remember… because it is that important, especially in the post-Covid19 world. The acronym is GBOMBS. And it represents all the adaptogens we need to thrive. This is what we need EVERY DAY. Adaptogens are plants that fight stress and provide safe balance within our body… they help regulate our body’s functions by turning processes down and up – like a thermostat. I’m explaining each letter of the acronym below, and I hope you enjoy eating your new destiny!
- Greens
You may not like the taste of arugula or Brussels sprouts, but your body can really benefit from it. In this category I include anything green that one would use in a salad or a grain bowl. Imagine a fresh salad with mixed greens and broccoli, or a fresh cabbage coleslaw, or even a cut of relaxing green tea. It’s not always about taste the first time you change your routine menu, but your palette will become adjusted to the new flavors you add in your life… and very soon your tongue may begin to crave the things that shape up the new you! Try it out and see…prove me wrong.. I challenge you! Sulforaphane is an adaptogen in cruciferous vegetables which include so many greens like cauliflower, cabbage, rutabaga, watercress, kohlrabi, kale, and my favorite bok choy. The greener it is, the better!
- Beans
Legumes, Dals, Beans, and Peas all fall under this plant-based protein category. They are tiny parcels that are rich in minerals, protein, antioxidants, and fiber. Many legumes contain precursors to neurotransmitters like dopamine and adrenaline. More research needs to occur in this area, but we believe there is some value here in reducing psychological stress. As we become more aware of dangers of animal proteins (red meats & processed meats classifications associated with carcinogens), we are looking for other means of getting our optimal protein needs met. This is a great place to look for adding more protein into your day… and you’ll get some valuable adaptogens – which are not found in other animal proteins!
- Onions
The allium family which includes many kinds of onions and garlic are powerful adaptogens, and are revered among several cultures through centuries as being medicinal plants. I tell my clients to include a VARIETY of alliums in their meals, cooked or raw. They are nutritious and delicious – NutriLicious!
- Mushrooms
Many varieties of mushrooms exist; the beautiful white champignon boxed in your grocers, the plump woodsy Portobellos in gourmet markets, and the dried potent ones for tea in your Chinese stores. All are great for nutrition, but specifically the dried ones are powerful adaptogens associated with anti-cancer benefits. Shiitake, Reishi, Lion’s Mane are the ones that I have looked into for gene expression; but that doesn’t mean your grocer mushrooms aren’t great for you.
- Berries
Berries consist of vitamins, antioxidants, and epigenetic adaptogens. I try and include some color each day in my smoothie. Berries are also known for boosting brain function, and they are tiny parcels of bold flavors.
- Spices
There are a collection of powerful adaptogen spices that health experts all over the globe are using daily in their meals or supplementing themselves with. Among them are ginger, turmeric (curcumin), cardamom, black pepper (piperine), thyme, oregano, cinnamon, rosemary, and chili peppers (capsaicin). Incidentally research has shown these spices are known anti-inflammatory agents as well. So be sure an include a few in every meal – another NutriLicious strategy!
