Laurel Dierking MEd, NFPT

The human body is made up of over 25 trillion cells. Similar to human life, individual cells are created — designed to accomplish a particular purpose in the body — and once their mission is complete, the cell dies.

Every day, the body is at work to remove old, damaged or worn out cells with new, energetic healthy cells. This is a natural process that takes place in order to sustain our overall health. Without the life and death cycles of weak or toxic cells, our body would not be able to thrive, protect and function optimally. This life cycle is highly influenced by our diet.

In the same way that not eating enough or not getting adequate nutrient-dense foods can cause our muscle tissues to atrophy (deteriorate), certain foods can help to build and repair cells to be even stronger than the previous generation. Our cells are developed with the nutritional support of whole grains, vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, fats and proteins. These essential nutrients are what build the cell membrane, nucleus and the mitochondria to make up one single cell. The tissues in our body are comprised of cells that join together to bring to life our muscles, bones, brain, nerves and skin, as well as all other matter in the body.

Given the fact that the health and longevity of the cells making up every nook and cranny of our entire being is based largely upon the nutrient density and quality of the foods we eat, it is imperative that we are highly conscious of what we feed our body. A diet lacking in fiber, protein and healthy fats can contribute to the production of brittle, leaky and tired cells that ultimately ‘slack off’ on their intended innate functions to keep our body healthy and lively. The constant production of malfunctioning cells can lead to numerous complications in the body, the production of inflammation, and can ultimately increase our risk of diseases, including cancer.

Foods that support the healthy development of cells include those rich in:

  • Unsaturated fats (Omega-3’s)
  • Fish
  • Nuts
  • Avocados
  • Olive Oil/Canola Oil/Sunflower Oil
  • Flaxseed

Protein

  • Chicken
  • Lean Beef
  • Yogurt
  • Seeds
  • Beans
  • Turkey
  • Eggs

Antioxidants

  • Grapes
  • Blueberries
  • Dark Chocolate
  • Dark Green Veggies
  • Sweet Potatoes
  • Tea

So the next time you think about what your next meal or snack will be, take a moment to remember that what you ingest will literally be what comprises the next generation of the very cells that make up your body — the very cells which are built to keep you healthy and ward off disease.

Will what you eat aid or hinder the vital role of your cells? By becoming more mindful and taking responsibility for the health of your body, and the development of chronic disease, you are given the opportunity to make a more proactive choice for not only your long-term weight-loss management, but also the quality of life you sustain down to the tiniest cell.

About the Author:
Working within the health field for four years, Laurel Dierking MEd, NFPT, is passionate about cultivating body, mind and spirit awareness through holistic health practices. As a Health and Fitness Professional and yoga instructor at JKFITNESS, Laurel strives to guide individuals on a path to self-awareness, long-term functional fitness, and weight-loss management.

Disclaimer: This blog post does not reflect the views of the OAC, the National Board of Directors or staff. The OAC does not endorse any merchandise, program or hyperlinks mentioned in this blog post.