As Catholics, we are called to care for our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). This sacred responsibility involves making choices that honor God by promoting physical health alongside spiritual well-being. One way to do this is by developing healthier eating habits. Here, we’ll explore practical advice from nutrition experts and how it aligns with our faith-based approach to living a balanced, God-centered life.
Start Small and Build Gradually
Aimee Tritt, a dietitian in Minneapolis, emphasizes the importance of setting realistic goals when making dietary changes. “The goal was the problem; it was too aggressive,” she says, noting that many people burn out after making drastic changes. Instead, Tritt advises setting small, gradual intentions. As stewards of our bodies, this approach encourages us to adopt habits that are sustainable and respectful of our human limitations, recognizing that true change is a journey.
Incorporate More Plant-Based Foods
Legumes, such as lentils, beans, and peas, are rich in protein and essential nutrients, according to Christopher Gardner, a nutrition scientist at Stanford University. Replacing red meat with plant proteins can “reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease and earlier death” and is also better for the environment. As Catholics, this aligns with Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’, which calls us to care for creation. Simple recipes like a lentil soup or hummus can be practical ways to integrate this practice into your family meals.
Practice Moderation with Sweet Drinks
Sweetened beverages can lead to serious health risks, including diabetes and obesity, according to Maya Vadiveloo, a nutrition professor at the University of Rhode Island. She suggests scaling back gradually rather than eliminating them entirely at first. In a spirit of temperance, we can learn to moderate our consumption, offering these sacrifices as small acts of penance.
Add Vegetables to Every Meal
Many of us struggle to eat enough vegetables, missing out on their essential nutrients. Angela Odoms-Young, a nutrition expert at Cornell University, suggests simple strategies like adding “a little to a lot of different types of meals.” This might mean tossing spinach into scrambled eggs or adding chopped vegetables to pasta dishes. In doing so, we can embrace gratitude for God’s abundance in creation, making meals both nourishing and joyful.
Minimize Ultraprocessed Foods
Marion Nestle, a public health expert, warns against the overconsumption of ultraprocessed foods, which are linked to obesity and other health issues. While eliminating these foods entirely may be impractical, reducing them in favor of whole foods is a step toward honoring the body God has given us. Preparing meals at home not only supports this goal but also fosters family togetherness, a cornerstone of Catholic family life.
Combine Physical Activity with Nutrition
“What you eat is just one aspect of your health,” writes Emma Laing, a dietetics professor at the University of Georgia. Activities like walking after meals can aid digestion and promote overall well-being. This echoes the Catholic principle of integrating mind, body, and spirit, reminding us that caring for our physical health can enhance our ability to serve others.
Build a Healthier Relationship with Food
Amanda Li, a dietitian at the University of Washington Medical Center, encourages those who have struggled with food to develop a more positive relationship with eating. She advises slowing down, enjoying meals mindfully, and appreciating the nourishment food provides. In the Catholic tradition, meals are often occasions for fellowship and gratitude, whether at family dinners or the Eucharistic table.
Adopting healthier eating habits is not just a secular endeavor; it is deeply rooted in Catholic teaching on stewardship, gratitude, and temperance. By following expert advice—such as incorporating more vegetables, moderating sugary drinks, and preparing meals at home—we honor our role as caretakers of God’s creation and our own bodies. Let these small, intentional steps serve as acts of faith, offering glory to God through the care of the gifts He has entrusted to us.
