Who knew? We always knew our role in public health. The front line of health and wellness has always included farmers- the men and women that feed the soil, microorganisms, plants, and humans the vitamins, minerals, protein, complex carbohydrates, fiber and fats needed for health and wellness. Visit a farmers market, farm store or farm and you will find a farmer knowledgeable on the nutritional value of their harvest. As rates of Type 2 diabetes, heart disease and even cancer increase in young adults, farmers have become vital partners in public health. outreach. Local foods deliver the rich flavors colors and nutrients, especially complex carbohydrates , crucial for human health. Before you follow the recommendations of influencers and social media personalities that vilify carbohydrates, understand the key roles of complex carbohydrates in human physiology. Dietary fiber is a complex carbohydrate and the unsung and often overlooked hero when it comes to the health and wellness of your gut microbiome, GI tract and cardiovascular system. Soluble fiber found in beans, barley, peas , apples and carrots, help decrease sugar and fat absorption rates which can help lower blood sugar levels for everyone, including those living with pre-diabetes or diabetes. For patients with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, normalizing blood sugar levels can reduce the blood vessel damage to the brain , kidneys and heart as well as peripheral nerves. Who doesn't enjoy a nice bowl of black bean soup, oatmeal with apples, coleslaw or even carrot cake? Insoluble fiber found in beans, potatoes and leafy green vegetables, passes through the digestive tract with little breakdown from digestive enzymes, or stomach acid. This undigested fiber adds bulk to bowel movements, helps prevent constipation and with fermentation forms butyrate, an energy source for colon cells and the gut microbiome. Early research has shown insoluble fiber to reduce the risk of colon cancer and in some cases, decrease side effects from chemotherapy. As you can see, complex carbohydrates are not the enemy. Instead, diets high in ultra processed carbohydrates -cookies, chips, donuts french fries, and sodas- now contribute to increasing rates of preventable illnesses seen previously primarily in older adults. As a result, many from Gen Z now have a front row seat to family members, friends and loved ones living with the pain and complications from chronic and sometimes, preventable, illnesses. For this generation, food is not medicine. Food is a delicious tool for preventing illness before medicine is necessary. This is also a goal for our CSA. Our fruit and veggies in your rich home home -cooked meals can help grow strong families and strong.community members Local food for Local families. Comments are closed.
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On the farm
Same Hands,
Same Goals, Different Knives Growing Healthy Families Archives
February 2023
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