Timing is everything

Considering that our digestive system uses about 75% of our energy, we would be wise not to burden it and make digestion even more tasking. The canary has some suggestions for eating patterns that will make the process more efficient and have the benefits of more energy. First and foremost, give your digestive system a nice long break from working so hard. Try eating your evening meal around 6pm. This is when the day is winding down and we don't typically need the same level of energy. This will allow your system at least 12 hours rest before it begins working on the next days meal, breakfast. Breakfast is the perfect time to eat fruit. Not only does it provide fast energy it is digested quickly and cleanses and tones the digestive system in the process. Below are suggestions for meals and timing to ensure that we get the most out of our food.

Breakfast Suggestions

During the week most people want breakfast, Fast. Here are some suggestions.
To ensure that I am getting the essential probiotics for the day, I like to start with 1 teaspoon of raw apple cider vinegar in 8 oz of water or a small glass of kombucha.

Fresh fruit smoothie with a few greens added.
Steal cut oats with cinnamon, ground Flax seeds and raisins. Topped with a dash of nut milk and honey.
Scrambled eggs and toast.
Plain yogurt and fruit.
Cereal and nut milk

Repeats are fine. On the weekends we like to change it up a little. Saturday we may indulge at the downtown farmers market and eat a taco, tamale or pastry. Sundays, easy does it,. We usually eat a little later and take more time in preparing breakfast which is typically pancakes with fresh fruit and yogurt.

Dinner Suggestions

This is the time that we are typically winding down, evening is drawing near. Maybe you're going out for dinner or just want to relax at home without spending too much time preparing meals. Light and low carb. are the key words for this meal.

Soup and salad
Salads with your choice of protein
Vegetable stir fry
Sea food and vegetables

Choose your favorite meals. Be creative, use all the greens and veggies you'd like. Just limit the bread, pasta, rice and other carbs.
We are also preparing our digestive system for its rest time.

Lunch suggestions

Lunch is the time to take a break in the middle of your day. Eat a substantial meal that will sustain you throughout the rest of the day. This is the best time to eat those delicious carbs.

Pasta and sauce dishes
Enchiladas
Legumes and lentils
Sandwiches on whole grain bread
Potatoes, rice and noodle dishes
Cheese dishes
Tamales
Tacos
Pizza

Lunch should be the time to indulge if you feel the need to. But remember the whole grains, brown rice, and complex carbs will nourish and satisfy the body versus bleached and processed foods which may satisfy the hunger but offer very little in nutritional value.

Snacks and Treats

Depending on how our day is going we may feel the need for some additional energy or just have time for a quick snack break.
Water should be our first response. Drink plenty of it during the day especially between meals.

Mixed nuts and dried fruit.
Fresh fruit.
Kale chips
Crackers and nut butter.
Green or herbal tea
Dark chocolate

We shouldn't feel deprived of our small pleasures. moderation is the key.