Did you know that 38 percent of adolescents and 36 percent of adults report consuming fruit less than one time daily? That is an alarming number considering the high percentage that accounts for consuming fast foods.
There are all kinds of reasons for why we do not eat as much fruits and vegetables as we should: time, money, convenience, taste, or texture, but it all boils down to what we are told to eat by advertisers and what is widely available on grocery shelves.
You see, the food industry has made it very difficult to maintain a healthy diet. Processed foods, fast foods and genetically modified foods are more available and accessible than fresh organic produce. It is a lot more expensive to buy fresh organic foods. Foods that are packaged as healthy and natural are often found to be the complete opposite. To maintain healthy eating, you really must do a lot of your own research and take matters into your own hands.
Our taste buds have become so accustomed to eating the unhealthy way, that we must re-train them to recognize and accept the right foods that are good for the nourishment of our bodies. Take a look at this interesting article from the doTERRA blog about eating the “rainbow”. Click here
Now let me put my disclaimer out there. I am not a medical professional and I am in no way whatsoever giving medical advice. This is my personal opinion and experience with mainstream medicine.
I am sure mainstream medicine has a place in treating illnesses and diseases, and I am in no way stating that all medicines or doctors are bad. But I have seen how medications are pushed by healthcare professionals instead of advising patients about the foods they should eat and exercise they need to get healthy and to stay healthy.
One such example is the Flu Season phenomenon. Since when is flu a season? This in my opinion is a way for big pharma to push flu shots, which often have severe side effects. Everyday you hear of a new drug that was previously approved as being safe by the FDA being recalled for being unsafe. Or the dreaded side effects that are babbled very quickly at the end of a drug commercial, that are often worse than the disease being treated. When does it end?
According to Ben Goldacre during his TED talk, doctors themselves often don’t know about the drugs they prescribe. They only have one side of the story
He states “When a new drug gets tested, the results of the trials should be published for the rest of the medical world — except much of the time, negative or inconclusive findings go unreported, leaving doctors and researchers in the dark. In this impassioned talk, Ben Goldacre explains why these unreported instances of negative data are especially misleading and dangerous” Watch the video
The time has come when we need to take the blinders off, stop trusting food and drug companies that only care about their bottom line, and take our healthcare into our own hands.
I have mentioned a few times in the past here on the blog about how I made a dramatic switch in the way I eat about 10 months ago. I literally got up one day, cleaned out my fridge and pantry of all processed and unhealthy foods (they were empty after that by the way), headed to Whole Foods and stocked up on fruits and vegetables. I bought a juicer and I have been eating this way ever since. My kids literally flipped a switch that day, but they have since gotten the memo. I hate to say that they cheat at the school cafeteria every once in a while, but for the most part, they eat the way I eat.
I would classify the way I eat as an almost raw vegan. My diet consists of mostly raw, and organic whenever possible – fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds. I sometimes eat grass-fed eggs, and occasionally a piece of sockeye salmon, but that’s all the meat I eat. I juice vegetables and fruits a lot and I also make fruit smoothies. Cooking is limited to an occasional bowl of spinach and split pea soup or lentil soup, and of course hummus which I cannot live without 
Before my diet change, I suffered from frequent migraine headaches, I was dehydrated from drinking soda and coffee instead of water, I was anaemic (iron deficiency), My body was very acidic (which is where diseases like cancer thrive) and I was borderline diabetic (which runs in my family). I am now on the road to being completely healthy.
I also try to stay active by going for a 2 mile run in the afternoons, but I have been slacking off because of the not-so-great weather here in Houston. I have started again since the weather has warmed up a bit. I hope to get back on track fully soon. I have also ben thinking about taking a spin class. I did a couple of years ago and actually really liked it.
I was also looking for a natural and holistic way to treat illnesses in my family. A great friend of mine introduced me to the powerful and amazing doTERRA Essential Oils and I have been using them since.
doTERRA Essential oils are Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade and are non-water based. They represent the safest, purest, and most beneficial essential oils available today. They are gently and skillfully distilled from plants that have been patiently harvested at the perfect moment by experienced growers from around the world for ideal extract composition and efficacy. Experienced essential oil users will immediately recognize the superior quality standard for naturally safe, purely effective therapeutic-grade dōTERRA essential oils.
I have been using the oils to treat my son’s ADHD tendencies with great results so far. Read more here and here
I came home from the office on Monday and my son was sitting at the kitchen table doing homework. You may wonder what the big deal is in that statement, but if you know my son’s struggles with school work and homework you would understand that for him to take the initiative to do his homework and was half way done by the time I got home is a miracle. I can honestly say that this never happened before using doTERRA
He also brought me a list of books that he wants me to buy for him, and began telling me about a book they are reading in class called Small Steps: The Year I Got Polio. I almost cried when he started to give me the storyline and a synopsis of the book. He is finally focusing long enough in class to grab a hold of the story or lesson being taught. And was obviously enjoying that! It was a proud moment for me.
He continues to do well in football, and he has been asking about guitar lessons and doing gymnastics. Haha! This is a far cry from the latest video game he would beg for.
Our doTERRA protocol definitely seems to be working and I only want to keep using the oils more and more.
My daughter was honestly a bit skeptical about the oils until she suffered from her usual bad menstrual cramps this month. I rubbed her abdomen with Peppermint and within about 30 minutes she started to feel some relief. I used Deep Blue on a minor headache I experienced this week and felt instant relief.
I have even begun to use doTERRA in cleaning my home instead of the harsh chemicals. I have been using Lemon to clean my kitchen countertops. It is so refreshing! I read somewhere today that Peppermint can be a repellant of mice…….My son actually saw one in the garage this morning, so I have dabbed a few drops of Peppermint on a cotton ball and placed it by the garage door. I’ll let you know soon if it works :-) Eeekkk!
If you would like to experience doTERRA for yourself, you can join as a Wellness Advocate (whether you want to make it a business or not), and receive 25% off retail prices. You also get to enjoy special opportunities for bonuses. The best way to experience doTERRA is by purchasing the Family Physician Kit ($150.00) which contains ten samples of the oils including some of the most popular ones like Lemon, Lavender, Peppermint. When you purchase a Family Physician Kit, doTERRA pays your enrollment fee ($35). Please go to my doTERRA website for more information, to purchase and to join. http://mydoterra.com/veronicasolomon
With Mother’s Day coming soon, doTERRA makes a wonderful gift idea for moms! Click for details about this special offer
Feel free to email me or leave a comment below if you have any questions.
Wishing you all a wonderful Wellness Wednesday!
Be Inspired!
Veronica Solomon, Casa Vilora Interiors
VeronicaSolomon.com
Please Note: The information I am providing is based on my own personal experience and is meant for informational purposes, and should not be relied upon if you have a serious injury or illness. Please consult a trained professional incase of a serious injury. Everyone’s experience with doTERRA Essential Oils will be different. I am not a doctor nor a trained healthcare professional and cannot diagnose or prescribe medications for you. This disclaimer acts as the explicit waiver of any liability of myself as a Wellness Advocate or doTERRA as a company. Information on this blog has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and products referred to are not intended to or guaranteed to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease
This has really opened my eyes and inspired me to be healthier
Eating healthy and getting exercise (any amount) is so important to keeping our bodies feeling good. I workout every day and I feel so good after my workouts.
Very interesting information! I’m a huge fan of a whole foods diet; I literally get nauseous when I eat processed foods. The closest thing to ‘processed’ that I eat on a regular basis is organic/gluten-free cereal from a box.
WOW! Great info… I can’t believe that that many people DON’T eat fruit daily. Soda and fast food and ‘other’ unhealthy snacks have run rampant. My wife and I just switched alot in our diet to a more natural, organic diet and we have seen great shifts in our energy, attitude and focus!
The commercial quote is pretty good, but cheese, milk and beef have their own commercials, too! I’ve seen some for avocados, tomatoes and even watermelon!!
Thanks Lindsey. The point I was trying to make is that food commercials are dominated by foods that are unhealthy for you. I am of the belief that cheese, milk and beef are unhealthy based on the industry standard. Sure there are commercials for fruits that you see every once in a while, but they are a very small percentage compared to fast foods, processed foods and genetically modified foods
I just love how educational your blog posts are! I’m thrilled to read how dōTERRA essential oils have made the difference for your family! I’ve been waiting for your report! Love this!!!
I never thought about it, but you are so right that most food commercials we see are for processed stuff. Thanks for bringing this to my attention!
I have heard of doTerra, but haven’t used the oils yet. When I am ready to replace or add some oils, I’ll look into it.
I’ve heard a lot of positive feedback on doTerra but have yet to try it myself. I have never used essential oils but with all of the added benefits, it’s something I need to look into.
I’ve never been into alternative ‘medicines’, but you do make a compelling argument for them.
I consider myself to be a healthy eater and at least once a week still enjoy the foods that I like to eat. About 2 months ago I got a juicer as well. It totally changed my life. Thanks for the reminder!
I quite agree. I think a lot of issues are a push by the food and drug admin to get us to “buy” their products. I think a lot of issues can easily be treated naturally. We always take the natural/herbal approach before going to the doctor. It has saved us a lot of time and money. When someone gets sick or I am suffering from allergies; usually it is herbal tea and essential oils first step. If after a day or two there isn’t any improvement, then we include OTC medications. If still nothing after another day or two; then we go to the Doctor. But 9 times out of ten we get to skip the doctor because we are already on the mend. Amber E.
We definitely need to be eating more fruit. Well, actually when I buy it, my boys eat it hand over fist, but I don’t. I am much more of a vegetable girl myself. That photo above that says if your food has its own commercial it is probably bad for you is so true.
I’m lucky that my boys like to eat a lot of fruit and, since my family works in produce, they get fresh fruit on a regular basis.
Fortunately many of my close friends are grads of Integrative Nutition and helped me switch to whole foods, unprocessed, organic, etc. Have many great stores to shop in as well. , so I know what you mean when you say you made a major overhaul. Love how you blended all the components of a healthy life style. This could probably been 3 separate blogs but for me, I found the different aspects inspiring and cohesive.
I couldn’t agree with you more! Honestly, I don’t take any medicine unless I absolutely have to. There are so many various options out there and most of them start with clean eating and working out. Taking care of your body is very important and not only does it keep you fit and healthy, but it also keeps you from having to take too many harmful medicines.
That’s an interesting way to look at it- about the commercials. I try to eat foods that don’t need to have an ingredients label.
You’re quote here about the foods that have their own commercials being bad for you is spot on. In fact, I’ve had to shut out commercials lately because they are all portraying everything I can’t eat!
Such an informative article! I do my best to eat well and exercise. I have my own products that have helped me. I rarely take medication….I prefer the natural way for sure. Thank you for sharing your story and how these products have helped you become healthier. Health is wealth!
I read this post as I am waiting for my hub to bring back fast food from Burger King. I feel so guilty now. I definitely need to get back into my healthy mode! After this burger, of course!
I like that quote about if your foods have their own commercials. It’s so true. I’m guilty of not eating as healthy as I should be and I’m definitely working on it.
Most of what my family eats is organic/whole foods; I am always amazed what I see people fueling their bodies with! The check out line at the market renders me speechless most times!
I’m going to check into the doTerra line, it sounds awesome.
I love it when people say, but it was approved by the FDA. Haha, like that means anything anymore! I’ve heard a lot of great things about essential oils!
We’ve been working more whole grains and organic foods into our diets. We really take a lot of interest into where our food comes from.
This stuff looks wonderful!! I’m so glad you’re enjoying it!! Thanks for the reviews!!
That’s a lot of great information! We are trying to be very aware of what we put into our bodies now and it’s a huge adjustment.
Several of my friends use doterra oils and they work well for them. I have been thinking about giving them a try.
Sounds like a really well balanced regimen, Veronica. I removed all white things (flours, sugars, etc.) from my house years ago, as well as everything that’s processed. I take no medicines, but do fill in with homeopathics. I don’t knock the medical industry; I just think preventive efforts are better served by alternative products. Essential oils fit in there perfectly!
The oils seem to be working wonders. I’m glad you’re seeing success. I may have to consider getting some myself.
I love the saying about the adverts – its got me thinking now what foods that are good for you have I seen in ads and you know apart from ones on supermakets I don’t think I have seen any1 x
I try to stay active as much as possible – I am no good with running but I pay it off with boxing instead.
this was an inspiring post, Makes me what to be more aware of what I eat.
Very interesting!! I’ve heard lots of good things about doTERRA. It’s amazing how something as simple as natural oils can offer so many health benefits!
Interesting article! I’ve been having more energy since reducing processed foods and increasing fresh fruits and veggies. I also love cleaning with natural oils.
I’m so glad you are dedicating your life to good health! I wish you tons of success in this new endeavor!
I did not eat healthy for a long time and now that I have started again, the unhealthy foods do not taste as good as I remember. Of course the days spent being sick after eating them make me regret it. I make a lot of shakes to get in vegetables and fruits, it makes it more convenient and tastes better. Stop slacking, sign up for that spin class! It is a great way to relax and get rid of stress. Hope the oils work out for you.
I think my comment might have disappeared into cyberspace…I was just saying that I was thinking about eating healthier and have been without a kitchen for quit awhile. I can’t wait to get my new kitchen and start eating healthier.
Thank you all for your great comments
The commercial quote is spot-on! I want to learn more about essential oils too.
I’ve never heard about this before, but I appreciate your story! The commercial is so true!
Very much inspirational post for health, I loved it.
Yeah, now a days most of us love to take fast food but I always prefer to have natural food like fruits & grains.
There’s been quit the buzz about this little natural secret. I’m doing my research!
Wow you are really making me curious to try these oils! I love that you are sharing your experience with us using these oils! Especially the one you use for your daughter’s cramps! I usually have to pop at least 6 Tylenol before I can get relief! And don’t even get me started on the pain i go through each month during my ovulation!
I saw some where where it said that foods we eat either promote wellness or encourage illness.
Learning all kinds of uses for these oils!
This is a great post. I’m so so so leery of any medicine out there, even the OTC ones considered ‘safe.’ With the exception of Excederin when I have a migraine coming on, I don’t take much of anything at all. Hubby is a different story. I should let him read this article.
Living healthy is living happy! I buy all natural products as much as possible. I’m fortunate for my kids are not a big fan of fast food. We liked to eat fresh veggies and fruits.
We try our best to eat natural or organic and honestly I’m always worried when the FDA will pull something else off the racks. Sigh
Wow! SO many benefits to these oils, it seems! I have a few things I would like to “treat” – going to do some more research on this! Thank you!
You’re welcome! I would love to answer any question you may have so feel free to reach out to me. You can get the oils at wholesale pricing if you join as a Wellness Advocate and purchase the Family Physician Kit. The kit has ten oils including some of the most popular oils like lemon, lavender and peppermint. It is only $150 and doTERRA pays your enrollment fee of $35. It is really a great way to experience the power of doTERRA EO’s plus there are special opportunities for bonuses like free oils.
I’m also in the process of flipping a switch. I just really need to get inspired in the kitchen again.
It will all come to you soon
Thank you for sharing all of this. My son was recently diagnosed with ADHD and I don’t want to do medicine so I’ve really been looking into essential oils. Off to read your other posts!
Sure thing! I would love to answer any question you may have so feel free to reach out to me. You can get the oils at wholesale pricing if you join as a Wellness Advocate and purchase the Family Physician Kit. The kit has ten oils including some of the most popular oils like lemon, lavender and peppermint. It is only $150 and doTERRA pays your enrollment fee of $35. It is really a great way to experience the power of doTERRA EO’s plus there are special opportunities for bonuses like free oils.
I love that you are aware of health benefits!
I try Yvonne. Thanks
Not a medical professional either, but I do feel like there are way too many quick fixes with medication. I’m learning more about essential oils and their benefits. This was a great post.
Thank you so much. Essential oils are definitely catching on in popularity
I like essential oils as pain relievers. I used to have some that I used for my migraines, and drops of different ones on a pillow I’d heat up when I was feeling crampy.
They are powerful and provide relief for pain and colds and allergies
What, I need to get my hands on these oils. I’m definitely going to do so research. I’m interested in learning more.
I would love to answer any question you may have so feel free to reach out yo me. You can get the oils at wholesale pricing if you join as a Wellness Advocate and purchase the a Family Physician Kit. The kit has ten oils including some if the most popular oils like lemon, lavender and peppermint. It is only $150 and doTERRA pays your enrollment fee of $35. It is really a great way to experience the power of doTERRA EO’s
I’ve heard a lot about do terra. My son has add so I may need to check it out. I’ve been working on getting processed food out of the house.
That’s great Dina! Please let me know if I can help. It’s very easy to join doTERRA and experience these powerful oils
That is a good point about recalls. I had never quite thought of it like that before.
It does put things in perspective!
Really good information, this is something I need to work on! I am bookmarking this post right now!
Thanks Teresa! I’m happy you found so inspiration here
Doesn’t make sense how the FDA gets away with stuff then try so hard to keep natural and organic products off the shelves. It is so frustrating!
I always make sure my kids eat a lot of fruit and veg each day, but don’t often take care of myself. I have just started to go to the gym and eat healthy and I am already seeing a big improvement in my mood
I’ve actually been talking to one of the doTERRA reps. I switched my eating about 10 months ago and my body feels so different. I think starting in the kitchen and working WITH doctors is the way to go. As long as the dr listens to you and knows your body, they can help you. Sometimes all you need is the nutrients coming from the fruits and veggies!
My kids are so picky, it’s so hard to get them to eat fruits and veggies, but we do. I, on the other hand could sit and eat raw fruits and veggies all day.
I love the image of don’t buy food that have their own commercial. So true. Shopping the outside of the grocery stories is important. Sticking to natural foods.
i try to stay away from medicines most times. Great information about using essential oils instead
Fantastic post, Veronica. I haven’t heard of doTERRA Essential Oils and they sound like a great solution.
As a former Chef in the food industry I can tell you that food is our biggest enemy. Convenience over nutrition.
We no longer have a balance diet. Days are gone when have a salad at dinner was a staple.
Time have changed and we have become more dependent on the Doctor’s who are now treating more patients than ever before.
Do you think this allows them the time or energy to research something before they prescribe it?
Great article and thank you for sharing!
I have some doTerra Orange that I used when I’m feeling tired. The smells really work wonders.
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