The very first requirement for getting into the Health Zone Life is to become a foodie. This does not mean becoming a snob, it means simply becoming aware of what we are putting in the body and asking one question: is this going to help nourish me or is it a poison?

Here are some basic principles:

1.  Eating a nutrient dense diet rich in natural unprocessed foods: vegetables, beans, nuts, seeds, fruits-try to include the seven colors of the rainbow in every plate

2. Eating no “foods” that are completely bankrupt and nutrients or toxic to the body such as sugar, sweeteners, white flour, processed and fast “food” ( this stuff is not really food)!!

3. Limiting animal products and dairy  and alcohol as much as possible

My favorite part of the grocery store is the produce section. Lets pick up some cruciferous vegetables, these are the strongest vegetables: loaded with disease reversing anti-inflammatory phytochemicals. Some examples would be Arugula, Bok choy,  Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Collard Greens, Kale, Mustard greens, Radishes, Turnip, and Watercress.

Fresh low glycemic seasonal fruits  like apples, melons, berries, pears, peaches are very important to stock up on too. My absolute favorite is pomegranate which I believe is the king of all fruits and is delightful as a salad topping.

Next, lets stock up on some beans and legumes to use in soup, salad and many other delicious creations.

Lets not forget some raw, unsalted and unprocessed nuts and seeds like almonds, walnuts, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds and chia seeds.

As dairy alternatives, I recommend almond milk or coconut milk.

If you feel that you need to have some meat, I recommend organic chicken or the SMASH fish: Salmon, Mackarel, Anchovies, Sardines, Herring / Halibut for their omega 3 content ( although Mackarel may have mercury too).

Now that we have the ingredients for creating appetizing, beautiful,  nourishing and healing meals, we can start thinking about quick, simple and easy meals like salads, soups, and cooked vegetables with nuts, seeds and meat as a garnishing.