Sunday, October 16, 2011

Let's Talk About Food

Today is World Food Day and Blog Action Day.  As a Registered Dietitian I talk and read about food daily.  My clients are often wanting an understanding of what healthy eating looks like in their life or for their sport.  For some people the issue is access to and availability of food - this is called food security.  Food is a basic human right and we need food to survive in this world.  The World Food Summit of 1996 defined food security as existing “when all people at all times have access to sufficient, safe, nutritious food to maintain a healthy and active life.”

I strive to help people lead healthy lives now and in the future.  A part that I don't forget, but often am not focused on is those who do not have access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food.  We are surrounded by food on every corner in our society.  Obesity and overweight seem to be overshadowing underweight as children are spending more time with electronic devices and are becoming less active.  Food plays such a large part of traditions, celebrations, cultures, and for most of us food is consumed a couple of times every day. 

It becomes a habit and as we search the cupboard or fridge wondering what to eat, we may forget that many people do not have a cupboard or fridge to look through. 

For today's post I wanted to share a couple of questions with my answers, feel free to comment with yours!


1) What is your favourite food? Right now it would be cherries or raspberries (but they're harder to get in the Fall and Winter).

2) Would you choose sweet or salty? I am definitely more of a sweet tooth and enjoy the occasional dark chocolate.

3) What is your signature dish? When I have a family I would love to be known for making great soup and lasagna.

4) What ethical and mindful food choices do you make? We purchase the CHEP Good Food Box regularly, get free trade coffee beans from 10,000 villages, occasionally shop at the farmer's market, and try to support local restaurants.   

Steph Wheler, RD
something nutrishus counselling & coaching 
www.nutrishus.com