Trying to eat right!

 I am going to share how I have tried to improve my diet which has helped me both physically and mentally! Everyone has a different metabolism and physical and genetic make up though so you should consult a Doctor or nutritionist before changing yours! Also realize this is an ongoing process that can always be refined and improved.
I first have to give credit to my wife Petra for coming up with a system by which I could determine what worked best for me and doing a lot of research about food in general. When I started I would eat one thing at a time and we would see how it made me feel, energy, mood, sleep, and take notes about ingredients, we did this for months.
Here is what we came up with in a nut shell:
  * Things I eat- Fresh and natural are good starts.  Almost anything form the produce isle, lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. Nuts and hummus are a good snack and source of protin. I also try to eat local or organic meat when possible. My wife has also helped me develop a taste for salmon and other sea foods. Also I find that cage free eggs have a a great taste. I also stick with whole grain breads especially oat. I drink at least 8 glasses of water a day and some juices that are not too high in sugar. Smoothies that are all fruit and low in sugar also help me get through the day.
Certain treats are ok in small amounts. ice cream depending on ingredients, Patato chips cooked in sunflower oil, a glass of wine every once in a while.
* Things I stay away from!!!- High fructose corn syrup, enriched wheat flower, dyes, especially red 40 and yellow, too much sugar and caffeine, other preservatives.
* How I eat- 5-7 times a day small portions never bigger than your palm of any one thing at any one time.I drink lots of water throughout the day! I eat in small bites and do best when I eat slowly. This seems to improve digestion and I feel full longer.
  In conclusion, we are what we eat. So try to take the time to read ingredients and know what you are putting in your body.  Before I figured out my diet the doctor wanted me on cholesterol medicine and my triglycerides were high! Now they are both in a good range with no medicine. Exercise also played a part in this. As long as I don't make a mistake my moods are better and I sleep great. I hope this helps you in some small way!!!
Sincerly,
John