It is a story repeated over, and over again in the more developed countries: the people have plenty to eat, but many suffer from diets low in essential nutrients. In essence—they are starving in the midst of abundance.
How can that be?
At the base of the situation are nutrients
Nutrients are essential for fueling and supporting life. They accomplish those critical functions by providing energy, building and repairing cells, and helping to control internal processes.
To maintain health, your body must absorb nutrients.
Some nutrients, called “Macronutrients,” are needed in relatively large amounts. They provide calories for conversion to energy. You know macronutrients as carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
Other nutrients, called “Micronutrients,” are needed in very small amounts—but they are absolutely necessary. Micronutrients support cellular function and growth. They are grouped as either vitamins or minerals. These subtle compounds regulate intricate processes in your body. Nerve function, electrolyte balance and reproductive health are just a few of the things that require the right amounts and types of micronutrients.
An imbalance in either macronutrients or micronutrients can cause severe health problems. Your body needs an adequate supply of both.
The healing properties of food
In a very real way, the foods you eat are for your healing. Properly fed, the body is an amazing structure, and it has the ability to repair itself. All the body needs is a few servings of nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables, some whole grains, adequate protein, and a source of clean water.
Proper nutrition is the basis for a long, healthy life. That statement seems like common sense, but the science behind nutrition is a historically recent development—and that has left us with a case of technology running ahead of wisdom. The economics of food production don’t fit well into the realities of nutritional needs.
The paradox of “overfed and undernourished” is a growing phenomenon, caused by the commercialization of food supplies. The tomatoes grown in Grandma’s organic garden aren’t as plentiful as those grown on a corporate farm—but Grandma’s crop is grown in soil rich in nutrients, whereas commercial farm soil is often severely depleted. Crops grown by the corporate farm giants certainly look like tomatoes, but they are lacking in nutrients. That is why they are devoid of that rich tomato taste.
How can we get the nutrients we need?
- We need to reverse current policy and put wisdom in front of technology and profits—especially when it comes to our food.
- We need to go back to natural, organic methods of production or continue reaping the consequences of obesity coupled with malnourishment.
- We need to manage our crops for nutritional value rather than for highest yield per acre.
There isn’t enough land on the planet you say? The problem we face is not a lack of places to grow food—but lack of properly managing the land we have.
Support your local organic farmer and you support the earth. Support natural products and you support life. The real heroes in this world are those who work to invest in the world’s future rather than to capitalize on the present.
You can be one of those heroes. Speak out.
For your children and grandchildren … speak out.
