Holistic Nutrition vs General Nutrition

What is Nutrition?

Have you honestly thought about what nutrition is and how it affects your overall health and wellness? Nutrition can be viewed as holistic or general, and both serve a purpose. Before I can tell you what the difference between holistic nutrition and general nutrition is, allow me to discuss what they both are. Holistic nutrition is a dietary approach that prioritizes the consumption of whole, unprocessed foods to support the body's natural healing abilities and promote overall well-being, rather than focusing solely on specific nutrients. It emphasizes the consumption of foods as close to their natural state as possible, while also considering the food's origin and cultivation, as well as the individual's lifestyle and needs. Food choices in holistic nutrition include whole fruits, whole vegetables, lean meats, nuts, whole grains, and similar items.

(Canva n.d.)

The Benefits of Holistic Nutrition

According to Peterson (2022), holistic nutrition is individual, like other holistic modalities. What is right for one person may not be right for the next. Adopting a holistic approach to nutrition, holistic nutrition consultants consider everyone comprehensively, developing a plan that addresses food sensitivities, exercise regimen, lifestyle, and current emotional state. This approach helps aid in the management of digestive disorders and nutrient deficits.

Holistic nutrition focuses on how the foods we eat either add to or take away from our overall health. Knowing that our gut plays a huge part in maintaining optimal health for us, it makes sense to pay close attention to what we eat. “To be healthy, your microbiome must also be healthy, comprised of optimal levels of healthy bacteria that optimize the gut ecosystem and provide important beneficial metabolites we absorb and use to regulate our health” (Hyman, 2023).

(Canva n.d.)

What General Nutrition Looks Like in Your Daily Life

General nutrition examines the impact of food and nutrients in the body and the principles of sustaining a balanced diet. It can assist individuals in mitigating their disease risk and sustaining a healthy weight. An exemplary balanced meal in general nutrition comprises a lean protein source such as grilled chicken, a complex carbohydrate like brown rice, a serving of vegetables such as broccoli, and a piece of fruit like an apple, collectively offering a variety of essential nutrients including protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals from diverse food groups.

With an eye toward understanding the fundamentals of macronutrients (carbohydrates, protein, fat), vitamins, minerals, and portion control, people are usually taught about general nutrition through a combination of school health classes, community programs, media campaigns, and healthcare provider advice. Often including interactive activities and practical applications like cooking demonstrations to solidify knowledge.

Summing it All Up

General nutrition is an easier approach to teaching the masses about nutrition. To nourish the body, mind, and spirit through a balanced and mindful relationship with food, holistic nutrition prioritizes whole, unprocessed foods, mindful eating practices, and addressing potential root causes of health concerns through dietary adjustments. This approach to nutrition is seen as "better" than general nutrition because it takes a more comprehensive view of health, considering not only the nutrients in food but also the individual's lifestyle, emotional state, and overall well-being. Holistic nutrition takes more time since it is an individualized approach to nutrition, and this approach will no doubt have much healthier, long-lasting effects. So take some time to figure out which way of eating will work best for your lifestyle.

 References

(Hyman, 2023)

• Hyman, M. (2023). Young forever: The secrets to living your longest, healthiest life. Hatchett Book Group

• Petersen, D. (2022). NUT 308: Advanced Holistic Nutrition (21st ed). Portland, OR: American College of Healthcare Sciences