[Edit: Announcing the Whole9 Nutrition Workshop at CrossFit Genesis!]
Have you ever made poor food choices because of cost? What is the REAL cost of this cheap food, in dollars and on our health?
I know that it seems cheaper to get a burger and fries off a value menu rather than eat a meal that consists of an animal protein, fresh veggies or fruit, and some avocado or nuts. What we see is the upfront costs, not the true cost. The true cost is hidden.
Unhealthy food is cheaper because our government policies support its production. The money that the government pays to subsidized corn and soy is outrageous. These foods then end up in the food supply as high-fructose corn syrup and hydrogenated soybean oil that are the foundation of almost all foods that are processed or manufactured, and nearly all fast food. Not only are these crops converted into processed foods, but they go to feed the cattle for meat and dairy production. With the government helping pay for these crops it’s no wonder why the price tag is so much lower.
What about the other costs that we may face? We all know that bad foods are bad for our health. When you eat unhealthy foods, the costs of medical visits, co-pays, prescription medications, and other health services skyrocket. It’s been said that seventy-two percent of Americans are overweight and more than one third are medically obese. One in three children born today will be diabetic in their lifetime and the life expectancy of our population is declining for the first time in human history.There are other non-economic costs of eating poorly as well. You reduce your ability to enjoy life in the moment due to increased fatigue, low-grade health complaints, obesity, depression, and more.
The biggest advantage of eating well now is not just preventing disease and costs later, but simply enjoying each day to its fullest. You can make that happen.
This is what you need to remember:
The true cost of unhealthy food isn’t just the price tag–in fact, the real costs are hidden.
Weekly Recipe
Roasted Butternut Squash & Red Onion with Rosemary
1/2 butternut squash, seeded, peeled and sliced
4 red onions, peeled and sliced
4 Tbs rosemary leaves, chopped
4 Tbs olive oil
Preheat oven to 350. Line baking tray with parchment paper. Add chopped squash, onions and rosemary to tray and cover with olive oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the squash is cooked and the onions are browned. Serve.
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
So true Addie! Before Paleo, I was spending $100/month on medicine to fix health issues. Staying paleo solves all of the problems these medicines were trying to cure so I am now saving that money every month!
I know that before I went to the Zone (I know it’s not Paleo but it’s close) I had the increased fatigue that you mention in your post. In fact the afternoon daze I used to find myself in was the main impetus for trying the Zone and I’ve felt great ever since.