Guide to Wellness

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Have you heard the term bioindividuality? There is not one diet or lifestyle perfect for everyone. As many say, one man’s food is another man’s poison. Your health history, blood type, age, and so many other factors can play a role in how food works in your body. Remember, just because your friend had success with one type of diet or lifestyle, doesn’t mean you will. It is time to find your own.

Here is how my journey with bioindividuality began.

Back in early 2011, I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis. My body was attacking itself and anything I put in it. My doctor recommended I eat healthier. To me that meant to stop microwaving my cardboard box of lunch and introduce more vegetables into my diet. The best way I knew how to do that was with a salad. And as the year went on, I didn’t really improve too much but I did eat a salad almost every single day. When I felt the worst, I ate them more often.

In August of 2012, my family took an amazing opportunity and moved to Hawaii. I was excited to take a break from my crazy life and focus on naturally healing my body. The foods available to me were amazing and I noticed that I wasn’t eating salads as often and when I did, I had an upset stomach. I would keep track of this in a journal and the less I ate a plate of raw leafy greens, the better I felt.

Was I onto something?

To be honest, I am not sure if it is the insoluble fiber, that I needed to chew more, or if it is just specific types of raw leafy green. It has been over three years of feeling great and I have yet to experiment to find the answer. Below I am sharing five things I do to make sure I don’t miss out on a variety of vegetables.

  1. I still eat my greens. I cook them or blend in a smoothie. For many of us with digestive issues, it is simply finding a different way to enjoy foods that provide so many nutrients.
  2. Yes, I can still eat out and find something healthy. Salads typically seem to be the standby for healthy eating but most restaurant have other options and are gracious enough to allow me to modify (for example: no dressing or no sauce)
  3. I now enjoy a wide variety of vegetables. My eyes became open to a whole new world of vegetables and I truly enjoy them.
  4. I listen to my body. Remember we are all different and just because someone else can eat it, doesn’t mean you can.
  5. I take notes. I did this more at the start of my journey but it is so important to connect the dots. Our lives are hectic enough; write down what you ate and how it made you feel. It takes time but soon you see a connection.

Remember that all lifestyle changes are not one size fits all. Please share what you have learned on your own journey.

Finding your own bioindividuality can be overwhelming. For some, the support and guidance of a Holistic Health Coach can be the key to success. Click here for a FREE one on one consultation.