I feel betrayed… I have been watching a documentary series this past week about reversing type 2 diabetes. Honestly, I don’t know what to eat anymore. I know I have to eat something, but what?
A Confusing Food Journey
I grew up on a farm. We milked cows, drank milk, and ate cheese and dairy products galore. The documentary series says not to eat those things. “The only one a cow’s milk is good for is baby calves.” I grew up eating meat—beef, pork, chicken, fish. Now I am told that I should no longer eat meats.
The Betrayal of Familiar Foods
The fats in meat and dairy products are the fats that are clogging my cells and organs and causing me (in part) to be insulin resistant. If the cells are full of fat, there is no room for the carbohydrates to be put into my cells to be burned as energy.
What Are We Supposed to Eat?
So what are we supposed to eat? Plants. Veggies and fruit. I have learned through this series that carbohydrates are not the enemy. In fact, we were designed as carbohydrate-burning creations. The Ketogenic Diet and the variations of it are simply not good! Period!
The Conflict with Agriculture
I am a little nervous even saying this stuff around here because we still are a very agricultural-oriented community. I am not against agriculture—but I feel deceived and I feel it stems from the government itself. The Standard American Diet is SAD. The United States is sick from the very top to the very bottom—from the politicians and lobbyists to the very food we eat. It is all connected and it is frightening.
The Epidemic of Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes
Obesity and type 2 diabetes are at pandemic proportions with no relief in the foreseeable future. I was not ready to hear this a year ago. Until I was ready to hear it, I dismissed it as propaganda from another group wanting my money. The fact is, who wants my money? The pharmaceutical companies. How do they do this? By promoting a SAD diet that is keeping our country fat, sick, and nearly dead!
My Anger and Frustration
If I sound angry, it is because I am. I still don’t know what to eat because there has to be balance in the fruits and veggies, but I am learning. I am researching, and I am trying. If you see me at a fast food restaurant eating meat or dairy, please understand that going cold “turkey” off of some of my favorite foods isn’t going to happen overnight.
Ready to Hear the Truth
But I think I am ready to hear the truth about food and I have to follow. I used to think vegetarians and vegans were crazy. Maybe they are the only ones who are sane.
The Influence of Food and Government
It is difficult to comprehend how deeply embedded these food recommendations are in our culture and policies. Growing up on a farm, I was surrounded by the belief that dairy and meat were staples of a healthy diet. However, this new information challenges everything I’ve been taught.
Personal Research and Learning
I have started diving into more research, seeking out credible sources and expert opinions. I am learning about plant-based diets and their benefits. It’s a slow process, but every small piece of knowledge brings me closer to understanding what my body needs.
The Emotional Impact
This journey is not just about changing what I eat; it’s also about dealing with the emotional impact of feeling betrayed by the food industry and the government. The realization that many health issues could be mitigated by diet changes is both empowering and overwhelming.
The Role of the Food Industry
The food industry has a significant influence on what we eat. Marketing and advertising shape our food choices, often promoting unhealthy options as convenient and desirable. Understanding this manipulation is crucial in making informed decisions about our diet.
Seeking Balance and Health
I am committed to finding a balance that works for me. This includes experimenting with different fruits and vegetables, exploring plant-based recipes, and gradually reducing my intake of meat and dairy. It’s a challenging transition, but my health is worth it.
Support and Community
Finding a community of like-minded individuals has been incredibly helpful. Support groups, online forums, and plant-based communities provide encouragement, share recipes, and offer advice. Knowing I am not alone in this journey makes it easier to stay motivated.
A New Perspective on Food
Adopting a plant-based diet has opened my eyes to a new perspective on food. It’s not just about sustenance but also about healing and nurturing my body. Each meal becomes an opportunity to make a positive impact on my health.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, feeling betrayed by the food industry and struggling with dietary changes has been a difficult journey. However, it has also been a path to greater awareness and empowerment. By embracing a plant-based diet and seeking balance, I am taking control of my health. The journey is ongoing, and while there are challenges, the potential benefits make it worth pursuing. I encourage anyone facing similar struggles to keep researching, stay motivated, and find a supportive community. Together, we can navigate these changes and work towards a healthier future.