"We got rid of 34 pounds of sugar in schools. Yes. We can fix this health crisis."

Katheline Jean-Pierre
Apr 30
3 min read

The Real Food Revolution

For the first time in U.S. history, our children may live shorter, less healthy lives than their parents. This alarming reality began in 2014 when American lifespans started declining—well before the pandemic—with ultra-processed foods as the primary culprit.

The Hidden Health Crisis

Today, an astounding 67% of children's calories come from ultra-processed sources. These foods—with their long ingredient lists, additives, and hidden sugars—are linked to rising rates of type 2 diabetes, chronic kidney disease, and other conditions now appearing in children.

The average American consumes over 70 pounds of added sugar annually, often unknowingly. Sugar hides under 200+ different names in products, with breakfast items alone often containing twice the recommended daily limit.

The 10-Day Transformation

Your body responds remarkably quickly to positive nutritional changes. In just 10 days without added or free sugars, metabolic health begins improving. Families who've taken this challenge report weight loss, increased energy, and a reset of taste perception—suddenly, whole fruits taste remarkably sweet.

Real Food, Real Performance

When we fuel with whole foods, we create the conditions for peak performance:

Sustained energy without the crashes
Improved focus and cognitive function
Enhanced recovery and repair
Better sleep quality when we align eating with our circadian rhythms

Practical Family Strategies

The most impactful changes happen at home:

Replace sugar-laden cereals with protein-rich breakfasts
Make cooking a family activity that builds "kitchen confidence"
Shop the perimeter of grocery stores for whole foods
Involve children in food selection and preparation
Consider the timing of meals—avoiding eating too close to bedtime improves sleep quality

The Bigger Picture

While individual changes matter, organizations like Eat Real are working on broader initiatives:

Removing excess sugar from school meals (one district eliminated 34 pounds per student per year)
Banning harmful food additives linked to behavioral issues
Increasing access to locally-grown, nutrient-dense foods

Each meal presents an opportunity to vote for the food system we want—one that supports human health, environmental sustainability, and the potential of future generations. What one change can you make today to move toward more real food and higher performance?

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Listen to the full Podcast Episode

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In this conversation, Katheline interviews the CEO of EAT REAL Nora De la Torre. They discuss the critical issues surrounding nutrition, particularly focusing on the impact of ultra-processed foods on health and lifespan. They explore the importance of returning to real food, the role of soil health in nutrient density, and practical cooking tips for families. The conversation emphasizes the need for awareness and action to improve dietary habits and health outcomes, especially for children. In this conversation, the speakers delve into various aspects of nutrition, focusing on healthier flour options, breakfast ideas for kids, the importance of family involvement in cooking, navigating sugar alternatives, and the significance of safe cooking gear. They also discuss the need for structural changes in school meals and raise awareness about American food trends, ultimately envisioning a sustainable food future where every child has access to nutritious meals.

Follow EAT REAL online, donate:

Website: www.eatreal.org

Where to donate: www.eatreal.org/donate

Instagram: @eatrealcertified

LinkedIn: Eat Real Certified

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