It might surprise you to learn that your body could be packing on the pounds because it believes it’s starving. This can be related to how your ancestors ate, and it affects everyone, including you.
A 12-year research project carried out by the University of Sydney, National Center for Cell Science, and DYP Medical College in India showed that animals whose ancestors were undernourished developed obesity while eating ‘normal’ diets. The study mirrors the rising rates of metabolic diseases in countries like India, where undernutrition across generations has given way to increasing wealth, and diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension have followed.
The reason behind this is that the DNA of recent generations hasn’t caught up with the changes in their diet and environment. Their bodies respond to food as though it’s scarce, conserving calories and storing fat in anticipation of leaner times. This leads to obesity and related diseases, even with a normal diet.
Could the same be happening in the US?
While it’s true that this problem is more serious in developing nations where undernutrition has only recently started to fade, it could still affect those in countries like the US. Despite its wealth, America has a vulnerability to diabetes, as shown by the growing number of people diagnosed with the condition.
Many Americans struggle to maintain a healthy weight, and the majority find it hard to lose weight, even when eating a so-called ‘normal American’ diet. One way to combat this issue could be to revert to a more traditional form of eating – like that of your grandparents. The difference in eating habits could be making your body store fat and making you sick.
How did your grandparents eat?
It’s doubtful that your grandparents were malnourished, but their diet was likely much different than yours. They might have consumed fewer calories, but their meals were full of fiber, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals from real foods. Today’s standard American diet is low in nutrients and filled with low-fat processed foods.
What’s changed in our diets?
Food has become a serious business, and the days of simple, home-cooked meals are long gone. Fast food chains and food companies are constantly advertising comfort foods, encouraging a culture of constant snacking and indulgence. This study highlights the importance of getting back to basics and consuming less processed food.
How do you make the change?
Adhering to a more traditional diet like your grandparents did might seem daunting initially, but the improvements to your health and your risk of developing conditions like diabetes are worth the effort. Moving away from drive-in restaurant meals and packaged snacks is a first,essential step.
The increasingly popular paleo diet closely resembles the diet your ancestors likely consumed and may be an excellent option for those trying to improve their well-being. It’s vital to start tuning out the constant marketing for ready-to-eat sweet treats and processed food and focus on eating balanced, nutritious meals.
Making these changes won’t be easy, but they will be worth it in the long run. You’ll start to notice the benefits of a healthier diet and a stronger, more energetic body. The key is to be consistent, make better food choices, and give your body the nutritious fuel that it needs.
