Food and Behavior Archives

Mindful Eating: Chew Like a Pro and Listen to Your Body’s Clock!

Charmene M. Vega1 month ago1 month ago011 mins

Here’s a quick taste of mindful eating:

Imagine if your body had a food clock—well, it does! Our natural rhythms, or circadian rhythms, help set hunger cues like clockwork around 8-10 AM, 11-2 PM, and 4-6 PM. These aren’t just random times we feel hungry; they’re connected to our hormones like cortisol, which gives us that “time to eat” nudge. And if you’re up for a challenge, try chewing until your food’s nearly liquid! This little trick gives your digestive system a head start, making meals easier on your body and giving you a real sense of satisfaction.

So, next time you feel the tug of hunger, take a whiff, savor the smell, and chew slowly. It’s your body’s way of saying, “Let’s do this right!” Eating mindfully isn’t about restriction; it’s about tuning into the wisdom your body already holds.

The Psychology Behind How Food Tastes Based on Presentation

Charmene M. Vega3 months ago3 months ago010 mins

When we think about food, we usually focus on flavor, but how it looks can be just as important as how it tastes. The brain starts forming opinions about food before it even hits your taste buds. The presentation of a dish triggers expectations that influence your experience and can even enhance or diminish the flavors.

Think about a beautifully plated meal versus one thrown together carelessly. The elegant arrangement, vibrant colors, and balance on the plate communicate a level of care and quality. This sets your brain up to expect something delicious. On the flip side, when food looks unappealing, even if it tastes good, you’re more likely to perceive it as less enjoyable.

Holistic Health and Economic Leadership: Empowering Women in Business

Charmene M. Vega3 months ago3 months ago06 mins

The Power of Health in the Workplace

When women feel energized, clear-minded, and supported, they bring their best selves to work. Imagine a workplace where your health is a priority—where team-building exercises aren’t just about business but about fostering well-being. That’s what I helped create with the Department of Human Services, through the Blue Zones Project Bakersfield. By incorporating holistic health practices like nutritious food demonstrations and wellness workshops, we saw a transformation. Employees were more engaged, had more energy, and their attendance improved. When your health is thriving, so is your work.

Empowering women to lead with vitality starts with creating spaces where they feel their well-being matters. When work becomes a place where you’re encouraged to be at your healthiest, going to work each day isn’t a chore—it’s a chance to grow stronger, more confident, and more fulfilled.

core values and respect are intertwined with nutrition

Core Values: Who Are You?

Charmene M. Vega4 months ago4 months ago018 mins

In our fast-paced world, respect and etiquette often take a backseat, but they’re essential to our interactions and overall well-being. When combined with holistic nutrition, these principles not only enhance our behavior but also strengthen the vital brain-gut connection. By nourishing our bodies with FRESH, whole foods and practicing mindfulness in our actions, we can foster healthier relationships and a more balanced life. Explore how proper nutrition and respect for others are deeply intertwined, impacting both our mental clarity and emotional stability.

Two different types of chips are shown side by side.

Cheetos, Doritos, and Takis: Controlling Your Mind?

Charmene M. Vega6 months ago5 months ago06 mins

The Hidden Dangers of Popular Snack Foods: What You Need to Know

Snack foods like Cheetos, Doritos, and Takis are widely loved for their bold flavors and satisfying crunch. However, beneath their appealing exterior lies a concoction of chemicals and additives that can negatively impact your brain and overall health.

Cheetos Crunchy and Cheetos Puffs are packed with artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. These substances can interfere with neurotransmitter activity, leading to potential mood swings and cognitive impairments. The high sodium and unhealthy fats in Cheetos can also trick the brain into consuming more, creating a cycle of overeating and contributing to obesity.

Doritos are another popular snack, with over 20 ingredients, including harmful additives like monosodium glutamate (MSG). MSG can excite neurons to the point of damage and create an addictive response, making it hard to stop eating. This combination of high-calorie content and addictive additives hijacks the brain’s reward system, leading to weight gain and related health issues.

Takis are particularly problematic for children, containing sugar and TBHQ (tertiary butylhydroquinone), a preservative discouraged by the Feingold Diet for those with ADHD. TBHQ can alter behaviors and negatively impact cognitive function. Additionally, Takis contain hydrolyzed soy protein, which includes MSG, further promoting neurological damage and overeating.

The trend of incorporating these snacks into traditional dishes only exacerbates the problem, normalizing the consumption of unhealthy ingredients and contributing to a rise in obesity, diabetes, and other diseases. By being aware of these dangers and making informed choices, individuals can protect their health and well-being.

A variety of different foods are arranged in a collage.

Bite-Size Pieces: The Importance of Cutting Your Food

Charmene M. Vega6 months ago5 months ago06 mins

Cutting fruits and vegetables into bite-size pieces offers numerous benefits, from aiding digestion to enhancing meal satisfaction. Smaller pieces promote easier chewing, slower eating, and better nutrient absorption. By eating more slowly, you give your brain time to register fullness, helping prevent overeating. Our proprietary eating system starts with warm water or broth, followed by cut fruit, water-rich vegetables, and carbohydrates. This approach naturally optimizes digestion and can aid in weight management. Discover the full process and enjoy a healthier, more satisfying way to eat.

A person sitting on the ground with their arms crossed.

Anxiety: Understanding and Managing

Charmene M. Vega6 months ago5 months ago010 mins

Anxiety disorders stem from a mix of genetic, environmental, and neurochemical factors. This comprehensive guide delves into the root causes and offers practical strategies for managing anxiety effectively. From understanding the brain’s role and the impact of neurotransmitters to the benefits of cognitive behavioral therapy and dietary adjustments, learn how to take control of your mental health. Explore how breathing techniques, building self-esteem, and making mindful food choices can alleviate anxiety and promote overall wellbeing. Dive into this detailed resource to start your journey towards a calmer, healthier life.

A couple of people that are in the grass

Organic vs. Non-Organic: The Brain’s Response and Behavior

Charmene M. Vega8 months ago5 months ago06 mins

The debate between organic and non-organic foods transcends mere dietary choices, delving deep into the intricate workings of the brain and its impact on behavior. Recent studies illuminate the profound effects of organic diets on cognitive function, memory retention, and behavior regulation. By exploring the interplay between diet and brain health, we unravel the hidden mechanisms behind how organic nutrition influences behavior, offering insights into how dietary choices can shape not just physical health, but also mental well-being. Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of organic versus non-organic foods, and uncover the secrets to nurturing a healthier brain and a more harmonious existence.