I’m Dr. Sal, a practicing doctor and surgeon for over 30 years, and today, we’re diving into a pressing question: What’s it going to take to change your ways?
As a new year begins, many people pledge to make healthier choices, whether through weight loss, diet changes, or a renewed commitment to exercise. But let’s be real: gyms are packed in January and empty again by March. Why? Because real change isn’t just about signing up; it’s about a commitment to discipline—particularly with what you eat.
A Tale of Two Paths
Recently, I had a conversation with a 74-year-old woman at the gym. Despite being on six different medications, she dismissed the idea of changing her diet to reduce her dependency on drugs. She chose medication over diet because she simply didn’t want to give up sweets. This choice highlights a common issue: relying on medication to offset poor dietary habits instead of addressing the root of the problem through lifestyle changes.
In contrast, let’s look at my friend Harry. At 87 years old, he’s still hitting the heavy bag at the gym, stronger and healthier than ever. Harry adopted a lifestyle based on whole foods and discipline when he was 17. He avoids processed foods, rarely drinks alcohol, and stays active. As a result, Harry’s lifestyle isn’t just a series of isolated health choices; it’s a daily commitment to holistic wellness.
The Impact of What We Eat
Harry’s story echoes what many health professionals know: 85% of health is determined by what you eat. Exercise only accounts for 15% of the equation. In Harry’s case, his vibrant health at 87 isn’t due to a secret fitness plan or miracle drug but his disciplined diet of organic, whole foods.
Today’s industrialized food system has tainted much of what we eat with pesticides, preservatives, and artificial chemicals that disrupt our bodies. The same applies to food production methods. As my father, a former farmer, once said, a natural chicken might lay one egg every two or three days. But today, with hormonal injections, chickens produce multiple eggs daily, reflecting how far our food sources have drifted from their natural origins. Every additive in our food affects our health and metabolism—especially when it comes to gut health, where disruption can lead to chronic issues like leaky gut.
Choosing Discipline Over Distraction
So, what’s it going to take? The answer is discipline. God gave us a body designed for balance and resilience, but it’s up to us to protect it by making wise choices. Discipline means turning away from processed foods and excess sugars that fuel disease and embracing whole foods that nourish.
Satan’s “d-word” is distraction, luring us into the illusion of moderation. But when “moderation” becomes daily indulgence, it’s no longer about moderation; it’s about lack of control. In choosing discipline, we honor both our bodies and the life we’re meant to live, free from preventable illness and dependency on medication.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to make a real change, start by assessing your diet and lifestyle with an honest eye. Choose discipline over impulse, and let every choice reflect the life you want to live—a life of health, purpose, and resilience.
If this message resonates with you, please leave a review, share the blog, or reach out with questions. Each blog post is backed by research, helping you align your health with a disciplined, purpose-driven life. I also have an upcoming workshop where we dive into these very topics.
God bless,
Dr. Sal
Comments