Primary and secondary foods in holistic nutrition - nutrition holistic

Holistic nutrition seeks to generate awareness of all aspects that contribute to the well-being and balance of the body. From this perspective, the distinction between primary and secondary foods aligns perfectly with the fundamental principles of this approach.

Numerous studies reinforce the connection between mental, spiritual and dietary well-being and a healthy lifestyle. In this guide we will explore the essential characteristics of primary and secondary foods, highlighting their importance in achieving a proper balance that benefits the body.

What are primary and secondary foods?

The differentiation between primary and secondary foods arises from a holistic view of wellness. It is based on the distinction between "food", which has a broader sense and encompasses what nourishes our body and mind, and "food", which refers exclusively to what we ingest.

Primary foods

Primary foods refer to everything that positively impacts our mental and spiritual health. Without these, a person cannot consider themselves completely healthy or have a balanced lifestyle.

Some examples of primary foods include:

• Social relationships, essential for emotional well-being, as they reduce stress, promote socialization and provide emotional support.

• Work or career, where having an occupation that aligns with our interests has been shown to contribute to mental health. Work can also be a source of stress, so it is important that it matches our goals and passions.

• Physical activity, which not only improves mood and reduces tension, but also prevents disease and strengthens the body.

• There are many more primary foods, from hobbies to spiritual practices, that contribute to our mental and emotional well-being.

Secondary foods

Secondary foods are what we commonly understand as "food". They are divided into macronutrients, which include carbohydrates, proteins and fats, and micronutrients, such as vitamins and minerals.

A holistic approach involves learning to balance both primary and secondary foods. In this way, we not only meet our body's physical needs, but also our emotional and spiritual needs, maintaining a truly healthy lifestyle.