Chuck Perrin

One of the things that I seem to be getting better at, as I get older, is listening to my body. It has seen me through some challenging, sometimes stressful times, and I guess it’s finally earned a little begrudging respect from me. So, I’ve been paying closer attention to what I put into it, and – you know what – I’m enjoying it!
I’ve been trying to consume foods as near to their natural unprocessed state as possible. Lots of fresh fruit, of course: apples, bananas, blueberries, pears, and avocados. And I’m actually starting to really crave vegetables: fresh artisan lettuce salads with edamame, carrots, red bell peppers, avocado, tomatoes, with walnuts, a little crumbled Gorgonzola, and topped with a grilled boneless chicken breast! Ooo, I’m getting hungry just writing about it.
My favorite meal is broiled salmon steak, next to a blend of whole grain brown rices, barley and rye, and steamed broccoli or asparagus – with just a little salt and butter. I eat that a couple of times a week.
How cool is it that these foods that I love are actually available pretty much year around here in Southern California.
I eat some meat and pork, when it sounds good. I also concentrate on eating only when I’m hungry, and plan one main meal a day.
Processed foods, packaged snacks, and drinks are not anathema, but I keep them to a minimum. I drink mostly water, wheat beer, sometimes a glass of full-bodied wine.
The thing about this regimen is that it produces a noticeable feeling of satisfaction and well being. I feel better – healthy, blessed, and happy to be alive. I’m thinking that may be what it’s all about.