I Think I Can Have It All, Why Not?

My interest in nutrition came about from my work as a veterinarian. My job at VCA Cat Hospital of Philadelphia opened my eyes to the epidemic of obesity in our pets. Currently it is reported that over 50% of our pet population is overweight! I think the majority of the patients that I see on a daily basis are overweight. When I approach the subject with my clients, many are surprised that their cats are carrying extra weight. Our perceptions are skewed and even though studies show that if our pets are maintained at their ideal weight they live longer (average of 2 years longer, which in pet years is a long time) I often find it difficult to get clients on board with weight loss. I make sure I talk about nutrition with each of my clients. Getting our pets to lose weight is not easy, so I need to educate my clients on why it is important for their pets health.

Check out this article on pet obesity where I was quoted:

http://www.obesitydiscussion.com/forums/miscellaneous-obesity-studies/porked-pets-reflect-u-s-2707.html

So I think it is natural that I want my family to be healthy and eat right too. So can I have it all? A career, family life, friends, a new business? I don't see why not! But I need to educate moms on why homemade food is better then all the other options available. Here are my reasons...

Organic

First, the subject of organic versus non-organic seems obvious to me. If I can choose a food without pesticides, growth hormone or antibiotics, absolutely I will. We don't know the effects long term for a lot of these chemicals, but I am sure if they can be avoided our bodies will benefit. Do you even know what they are spraying on the produce you're eating, or which injections they give to the animals you are eating? It's scary to think about.

Freshness

Have you ever wondered why the jars and pouched found on shelves are good for over a year? When I make my food fresh, it will keep three days refrigerated or three months in the freezer. Unless I add something to keep it from spoiling, that's the maximum time it will stay fresh. Some companies use additives and preservatives. Most store organic brands, which don't use preservatives, are heated to very high temperatures to prolong the shelf life. This diminishes the color, texture and nutrient content. I love looking at the vibrant colors of the fruit and vegetables I cook for Julian. Take a peek at the expiration dates on the foods next time you're in the supermarket. (And look at the color.)

Flavors

Most important, have you ever tasted any of the food you feed to your baby? I do! I love eating the leftovers that Julian doesn't finish. It tastes exactly like it should, delicious. I feel that eating fresh produce from the start will help Julian transition to eating fruits and vegetables as a normal part of his diet. It makes sense- he is used to the flavors from the start.

Variety

I have made many fruits and vegetables that you just don't find in store bought baby foods. I believe the variety is opening up Julian's taste buds, and giving him the experience of flavor. Also, the texture of the food is closer to what we would experience- it's not a uniform purée. The zucchini is thin and watery, the sweet potatoes are thick. The different textures give Julian a whole new experience at each meal.