I am known to be the super strict mommy. I have truly worked very hard to raise my daughters in a health conscious home.
I wasn’t always health conscious. My mom will tell you I was the most difficult child to feed…make that TRY to feed. When I hit about 14, I made up for it. My mom used to joke with me and asked if I secretly worked in construction and my dad would say to not let boys see my meals or they’d be scared to marry me. LOL It was a fun time.
I developed an intolerance to meat. My stomach bothered me so much I had to have it drained and cut any animal cell intake. I was vegetarian for 7 years. It all ended with Elisha’s pregnancy when “something smelled yummy” at Disneyland and it was non other than ribs!! Needless to say, the next day I was sick.
During most of my childhood and especially during the time I was eating strictly veggies as an adult, I was off and on anemic. When I became pregnant, I had made a conscious decision to make sure I had all the baby needed to thrive. I would monitor all my calorie, fat and nutrient intake and, of course, having survived the ribs, I slowly incorporated poultry and some seafood into my diet.
In my culture, a mother’s milk for her baby is the only natural option, so I was convinced I was going to do this for a while. I read and researched all about feeding my baby the best when the time was right. The greatest tip ever: give baby vegetables and make sure baby likes them before introducing fruit. Baby will prefer fruit because it is sweeter, but if you give them only vegetables, they will love them forever. I certainly didn’t know if it was true, but I tried it and it worked. My children loooove vegetables and legumes. Broccoli, asparagus, spinach, arugula… are a treat at our home.
We don’t ever eat fast foods or drink soda. The girls are only allowed pastries and sweets at very special occasions. We shop organic and prefer naturally gluten free foods. Elyssa is Vegan to save the animals. Making health conscious choices is part of our lifestyle.
“Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body,” (1 Cor. 6:19-20).
When we make good eating and drinking choices we honor God with our body. God wants us to be healthy and happy. This is something we sometimes take for granted. I remember a wake up call I had when I suddenly was too sick to be myself, enjoy myself and care or serve my family or friends, let alone anyone else who was in need. The lesson I learned is a great reminder.
Health is not just a nice thing to have. It is an optimal state where we can be our best and do our best. Caring for our bodies inside and out is a gift we deserve and it is a wonderful legacy to your children.
We all do what we can, but we usually can more than we do. Think of all the things you could do for your loved ones if only you felt a little better, had more energy, or lived healthy just a little longer.
Guiding YOUR Path to Success,
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Known worldwide as "The Positive MOM", Elayna Fernandez - Bare is a bestselling author, international keynote speaker, and award-winning entrepreneurial Success Guide.
