Traditional medicine isn’t going anywhere, but as healthcare costs rise and the pharmaceutical landscape evolves, many people are leaning into preventative nutrition for optimal physical health and improved cognitive function.
It’s no secret that the food we consume has a profound impact on our health. Just as the USDA replaced the “food pyramid” with “MyPlate” as the official symbol for dietary guidelines, nutritional standards have evolved significantly. The USDA estimates that over half of adults have one or more diet-related chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, obesity, or certain cancers.
Research increasingly suggests that diet plays a significant role in the development of chronic diseases—perhaps more so than environmental factors, lifestyle, or genetics. According to Registered Dietitian Haley Bishoff, nutrition is just as crucial as clinical treatment for preventative wellness.
Haley, who owns Rūtsu Nutrition in Las Vegas, advises clients that even small dietary changes, like adopting a more plant-based diet, can significantly improve long-term health. Drawing a parallel between the human body and a luxury car, she states, “If you put bad quality fuel in it, it’s gonna cause some issues.” In other words, if you’re consuming junk, don’t be surprised if your body feels like it’s running on empty. A plant-based diet is her version of premium gasoline.
Plant-Based Spectrum
“Eating more plant-based foods in their whole or minimally processed form is one of the best things you can do for your health, including disease prevention, management, and even reversal,” Haley explains, emphasizing most people should aim to get their nutrition from plant sources like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, legumes, nuts, and seeds.
Let’s clarify. This approach varies for everyone. There’s a broad spectrum of plant-based diets, from vegan and vegetarian to pescatarian. Even meat-eaters incorporating more plants into their diet can join the club.
The Great Balancing Act
Whole foods are great, but eliminating all processed foods seems slightly overambitious. Haley agrees, noting, “It’s nearly impossible to avoid processed foods 100 percent.”
Moderation, pull up a chair.
“Eat 80 to 90 percent of the time with whole foods and give yourself some freedom for the remaining 10 to 20 percent to enjoy other types of foods,” she advises, making it easier to integrate a healthier diet into daily life.
Cognitive function and preventative nutrition rely on essential nutrients. Healthy fats, lean protein, Omega-3 fatty acids, and plant derivatives like chia seeds, walnuts, and flaxseeds are crucial. Antioxidants, found in foods like berries and dark leafy greens, play a vital role in brain health by reducing inflammation.
While plant-based foods are an excellent source of fiber, they might not provide all the necessary nutrients. Haley often recommends supplementing Omega-3, B-12, and Vitamin D. Many people tend to associate protein with meat, but there are alternatives. Vegetables, lentils, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and soy products are also plant-based sources of protein.
The War on Diets
In a world driven by instant gratification, restrictive diets often fall short of delivering long-term benefits. “Diets don’t work—nearly 100 percent of diets fail,” Haley points out. Instead, she advocates for ‘eating the rainbow.’
Holistic Approach
While traditional medicine is important, the impact of nutrition on brain and body health is undeniable. Haley believes a plant-based diet is key to unlocking wellness, cognitive function, and disease prevention. Perhaps embracing this holistic approach could be the most essential ingredient for achieving optimal health.
“Eating more plant-based foods in their whole or minimally processed form is one of the best things you can do for your health, including disease prevention, management, and even reversal."