This is our last discussion of the series and today we talk about the DASH diet, the carnivore diet and the importance of mindful eating.
Choosing a way of eating that truly supports our health can feel overwhelming, but with the right knowledge, making informed decisions becomes much easier. As individuals, it’s important to find an approach that suits our unique needs and is sustainable over time. Ultimately, information should lead to meaningful change, and it is our hope that this series has empowered that transformation.
DASH diet
The Dietary Approaches to stop Hypertension (DASH) diet focuses on blood pressure reduction by emphasizing nutrient-dense, whole foods while restricting sodium and carbohydrate intake.
It is balanced and structured and has been clinically proven to be effective for reducing hypertension and improving cardiovascular risk symptoms.
Carnivore diet
People who follow this diet consume animal foods only.
This diet can be helpful to eliminate allergens and to reduce autoimmune symptoms in the short term, however, it lacks fiber and phytonutrients so is best as part of a short-term elimination strategy.
Intuitive / Mindful eating
The focus of this way of eating is on body cues rather than rules. It can be helpful for people to improve their relationship with food and to reduce the stress and guilt around food that we so often have.
With mindful eating, weight loss not guaranteed and it does require a person to be in tune with their body. It can be good for long-term wellbeing and nervous system regulation.
As we’ve seen there are many diet options, and we have only touched on some of them in this series. There is no single “best” diet, but the most effective approach depends on our metabolic health, the state of our nervous system and our stress load, our lifestyle and values and whether the plan we choose is sustainable and affordable.
The best diet is the one that supports regulation, nourishment, and consistency over time. Healing requires safety, consistency, and sufficiency—not just “clean” eating.
Listen to my interview with Brad Kirsten from Radio Cape Pulpit on 26 March 2026 to learn more. Listen to my next interview on Thursday at 7.45am.