Why Our Ancestors Were Healthier Than Us?
When we look back at the lives of our ancestors, one thing becomes clear: their health and longevity were often significantly better than what we see today, despite the lack of modern medicine and technology. The secret? Their diet and lifestyle. Here, we’ll explore why our forebears were healthier and why metabolic health issues are rampant in today’s society.
The Ancient Way of Life: Balance and Hard Work
Natural and Seasonal Diets: Our ancestors’ diets predominantly comprised fresh, seasonal, and local produce. They consumed whole foods like vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, and grains, often freshly harvested. Meat and fish were consumed in moderation and were typically grass-fed or wild-caught.
Minimal Processing: Food was prepared from scratch, free of preservatives, artificial flavours, and added sugars. This natural approach ensured they received the full spectrum of nutrients without harmful additives.
Regular Physical Activity: Life was physically demanding. Farming, hunting, gathering, and household chores required constant movement. Their physical activity was not confined to a gym but was seamlessly integrated into their daily routine, leading to robust metabolic health.
Intermittent Fasting as a Norm: Food availability was not guaranteed 24/7. Periods of fasting between meals or seasons were common, giving their bodies time to repair and optimise metabolism.
Fixed Sleep Patterns: With no screens or artificial lights, sleep schedules were aligned with the natural day-night cycle. This ensured optimal rest and recovery.
The Modern Shift: Convenience Over Health
Processed and Packaged Food: Today, diets are dominated by processed and ultra-processed foods. High in refined sugars, unhealthy fats, and artificial additives, these foods are not only nutrient-deficient but also harmful to metabolic health.
Sedentary Lifestyles: Modern conveniences have drastically reduced physical activity. Long hours at desks, reliance on vehicles, and passive entertainment have turned us into a sedentary society.
Overeating and Snacking: The culture of snacking all day and oversized portions has replaced the limited and balanced meals of the past, leading to overeating and metabolic imbalances.
Sleep Disruptions: Irregular sleep patterns due to artificial lighting, screen time, and hectic schedules disrupt the body’s natural rhythms, further exacerbating health issues.
Stress and Pollution: Unlike our ancestors who lived closer to nature, modern living exposes us to chronic stress and environmental pollutants, both of which negatively impact metabolic health.
What Can We Learn from Our Ancestors?
While we can’t completely replicate our ancestors’ way of life, we can draw inspiration from their habits:
Eat Whole, Natural Foods: Prioritize seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and minimise processed foods.
Stay Physically Active: Incorporate movement into daily routines, whether it’s walking, gardening, or exercising.
Follow a Balanced Meal Schedule: Avoid constant snacking and focus on nourishing meals.
Prioritise Sleep: Aim for consistent, quality sleep by aligning with natural rhythms.
Manage Stress: Practice mindfulness and limit exposure to unnecessary stressors.
The LiveAltlife Solution
At LiveAltlife, we believe in bringing back the wisdom of our ancestors with a modern twist. Our “Food as Medicine” approach combines the principles of natural, wholesome eating with cutting-edge nutrition science to restore metabolic health. With precision nutrition calibrated meal plans, curated recipes, and a supportive ecosystem, we make eating healthy effortless. From weekly staples to indulgent desserts, everything is crafted to fuel your health journey and support your metabolic wellness.