Daily Excerpt: Old and On Hold (Cooper) - Eating through a Pandemic

 



Excerpt from Old and On Hold 

Eating through a Pandemic

The food supply chain has been turned upside down, creating unusual problems wherein some farmers are tossing milk or burying vegetables while people are lined up at food banks without adequate supplies of food.

As of this writing ,we are being told that meat processing has been affected by plant workers being struck with COVID-19. A threat of meat shortage can create food insecurity and the desire to hoard which, of course, requires a way to store larger quantities of food. People without means, including elderly on fixed incomes living in small spaces, can’t hoard. We can expect that grocers will put some limits on the amount bought just as stores did with toilet paper and paper towels. I thank my grocer every time I go in for the effort to provide and, in some cases, “police” our good intentions for the good of all.

Stress and boredom are triggers for overindulging. Sugary and salty foods offer temporary satisfaction and comfort. Too much of either and not enough of essential nutrients are not healthy for our bodies. One way to control intake of sugar and salt is not to have much around. Another is to discipline your intake to a specific amount. Stay away from those foods that cause you to abandon all principles of good eating.

Dietitians and nutritionists have been advising people to practice mindful eating as a way of not only enjoying food more but as a means of not overindulging. We can relate to munching on snacks like popcorn or small candies while watching a fascinating story. The bag or the bowl ends up empty before the story ends through, alas, mindless eating. Mindful eating means paying attention to what and how much you put in your body. It means enjoying the taste and texture of the food you are putting in your body. It means starting with a small serving.

Success starts with the desire to regain and maintain health, and discipline follows. It doesn’t hurt to plant a few rewards of food you enjoy.

Another strategy is to eat foods that your body needs and that are more filling. As an example, our bodies require more protein as we age. Research is showing that after the age of 70, people require more protein than before (Hayes, 2018). Shelves are full of protein drinks and bars for a reason. You might want to stock up on these for quick nutritious and satisfying snacks. Examples of good sources of protein are meat, any type of bean, fish, shellfish, and eggs. Fiber rich foods such as fruits and vegetables are another way to satisfy yearnings and stay healthy.

You may be on a special diet that precludes some of these suggestions. Keep in mind your allergies, other restrictions, and direction from your health care provider. Any questions should be directed to your health care provider so that you are meeting your unique needs. On the other hand, being mindful while eating doesn’t require a prescription from a health care provider. 

For more posts about Bertha Cooper and her books, click HERE.

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