In today’s fast-paced world, where convenience often trumps quality, it is essential to take a step back and reflect on our relationship with food. This contemplation brings us to the concept popularized by nutrition advocate Shelley Loving: a call to embrace what’s on our forks. Loving’s philosophy is not just about food consumption; it encompasses a broader understanding of nourishment, sustainability, and mindfulness. In this article, we delve into the essence of Loving's journey, and approach, exploring the importance of loving what we eat and how it affects our health and overall well-being.
The Mindful Approach to Eating
Shelley Loving advocates for a mindful approach to eating—one that encourages individuals to become more aware of their food choices and the origins of those choices. Mindfulness in eating means paying attention to not only what we eat but how we eat. This includes recognizing the flavors, textures, and nutritional value of food, as well as appreciating the effort that goes into its production. By cultivating a mindfulness practice around food, we can develop a deeper connection with what’s on our forks and make more informed decisions.
Loving’s perspective emphasizes that enjoying what you eat is vital for physical and mental well-being. Research consistently shows that when individuals take time to appreciate their meals, they tend to make healthier choices. This mindfulness can lead to better digestion, improved satisfaction with meals, and a decrease in overeating. When we love what we eat, we are more likely to choose fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients that are not only flavorful but also packed with essential nutrients.
Q: Tell us how you got into healthy cooking and what kickstarted your path to create Shelley Can Help?
A: My husband had a massive heart attack at the age of 41 and we both knew we didn’t want him on 7 prescription drugs forever so we decided to take action holistically and begin the healing process. I turned to food as a way to get him better and it worked. It worked so well that the doctor said he has completely reversed the heart damage. When he told us that, I knew I had to share this simple food information with more people.
Q: If you could give 1 simple tip for people that want to eat and cook healthier, where would you tell them to start?
A: Learn how to read a food label. When you learn to properly read a food label and are able to quickly identify unhealthy ingredients, you hold all the power on your health and your ability to get healthy
Q: What is the most important ingredient for people to look out for when they buy processed foods?
A: Oils. Refined cooking oils are very unhealthy, cause a lot of inflammation in our bodies which turns into long-term health issues. Refined oils are in so many of our packaged foods today and they should be avoided at all costs.
Q: What is the core focus of your teachings and your recipes?
A: Chronic Inflammation. I teach a very simple method to healthier cooking. Avoid inflammatory ingredients and focus on eating foods that actually fight inflammation. By reducing inflammation in the body, we are allowing our bodies to begin the healing process and/or stay healthy
Q: How can people learn more about you and your delicious food?
A: https://www.shelleycanhelp.com/ and I’m everywhere on social media @shelleycanhelp. Oh and I have a best-selling cookbook on Amazon called What’s On Your Fork?!
For those looking to align their eating habits with the philosophy of Loving what’s on your fork, consider the following actionable steps:
Educate Yourself: Take time to learn about the origins of your food. Research local farms, food cooperatives, and seasonal produce in your area.
Mindful Eating: Practice mindfulness during meals. Avoid distractions and take time to savor each bite, noting the flavors and textures.
Go Local: Support local farmers by purchasing fresh produce from farmers’ markets or community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs.
Cook Together: Organize communal cooking sessions with family or friends. Share recipes, techniques, and stories as you prepare meals together.
Experiment: Try cooking dishes from different cultures and regions to broaden your culinary horizons and find new flavors to love.
Lastly, visit Shelley Loving's website https://www.shelleycanhelp.com/ to take a class and purchase her book, What's On Your Fork?
Shelley Loving’s philosophy of "loving what’s on your fork" serves as a reminder that our food choices reflect our values and priorities. By embracing this mindset, we can foster better health for ourselves, nurture our communities, and protect our planet. In a world where fast food often reigns, let us rekindle our appreciation for the beauty and complexity of the natural world—one meal, one forkful at a time. As we embark on this journey toward mindful eating, let us not only nourish our bodies but also cultivate a deeper love and respect for what sustains us.