The Power of Food

The Beginning of Health Awareness

My father struggled with delicate health since childhood, sparking his deep interest in wellness. He would carefully record health information from newspapers and media, posting them throughout our home. I still vividly remember my father making his morning juice filled with various vegetables and fruits. At 73, while his physical strength may have declined, his dedication to daily exercise never wavers. While I did not think much of it as a child, his influence was quietly shaping my future.

My Health Journey

Throughout my childhood, my parents frequently worried about my vulnerable immune system. However, in my youth, I paid little attention to such concerns. Perhaps due to my optimistic nature, I ate whatever I wanted, enjoyed drinking, and never seriously thought about health.

Living far from my parents sparked my first genuine interest in health and wellness. The thought of them falling ill while I was away prompted me to dive into the world of nutrition and healthy living. This interest naturally evolved and deepened as I experienced pregnancy and became a mother myself. 

Traditional Wisdom

Whenever I had a cold as a child, my parents would prepare a special healing drink - a pear hollowed out and filled with grated pear, radish, and honey, then gently steamed and strained. What once seemed like just another home remedy has become a cherished winter tradition I now share with my own children.

In Korean culture, food has long been considered nature's medicine, with generations of wisdom passed down about healing through nutrition. Pears are rich in water and vitamin C, helping prevent and ease cold symptoms, while radish effectively relieves cough and phlegm. Research has actually proven that honey is very effective in relieving children's coughs.

My Philosophy of Health

I have my own philosophy about food. Rather than focusing on what to eat, I concentrate on what to avoid. Believing that stress is most harmful to health, I try not to impose too many restrictions. My daily routine revolves around mindful eating - balancing hydration with regular meals throughout the day. One meal is typically light, consisting of fresh vegetables, fruits, and yogurt, while the others center around traditional Korean cuisine. Every meal I prepare for my family is thoughtfully crafted to include both protein and vegetables, maintaining our connection to Korean culinary traditions while ensuring proper nutrition.

Nature's Medicine: Healthy Juices

My journey with healthy juices began during my second pregnancy, as I sought ways to complement my naturally light eating habits. What started as a personal health practice soon became a cherished family ritual, with both my older child and now my toddler sharing in this daily tradition. We've discovered that this simple practice has strengthened our family's health, with fewer seasonal illnesses. I've learned to lightly blanch the vegetables before juicing - a small but important step that makes the nutrients more gentle on young digestive systems.

Here are my three favorite juice recipes:

1. Kale and Apple Juice: The rich antioxidants from kale blend perfectly with apple's natural sweetness, making it kid-friendly.

2. Apple, Carrot, and Cabbage Juice: This already-famous combination in Korea has strengthened our immunity over a year of consistent drinking.

3. Spinach and Lemon Juice: The vitamin C from lemon enhances the absorption of iron from spinach.

I also try various other combinations like tomato juice, carrot juice, and grape-kale juice, changing them according to the season and our condition.

Sharing a Healthy Life Together

I'd love to hear about your family's special recipes for health and wellness. Do you have treasured remedies passed down through generations? Every family holds unique wisdom, and sharing these gifts can enrich all our lives. I look forward to your comments and subscriptions!

With health and gratitude, 

Autumn

P.S. Please share your family's health traditions through comments or email. Let's learn and grow together towards a healthier life!