Taste is deeply personal, yet it connects us all in surprising ways. Living in Europe, I haven’t ventured far to discover how similar our preferences truly are. Travel around the continent reveals common themes – wheat, fish, dairy, berries – reflecting what’s naturally available in each region. This forms the foundation of every cuisine.

In today’s world, Michelin-starred restaurants and online reviews might suggest vast culinary diversity. Yet, these examples often highlight our shared appreciation for certain flavors and experiences. The downside, however, is the distortion of our taste buds. As a passionate advocate for healthy eating, it saddens me that the quest for abundance, variety, and novelty has distanced us from understanding what real food is – what nourishes our bodies and what harms them.

I don’t believe in restrictive diets that are unsustainable. Instead, I advocate for long-term adjustments based on our local environment. Filling our fridges and tummies with locally grown produce may seem expensive or inconvenient. But let’s compare that to the cost of doctor visits, medications, gym memberships, and other expenses stemming from poor health.

Looking back, I had a period of rapid weight gain as a child. Feeling awful and ridiculed, my parents intervened. They replaced processed snacks with regular exercise and healthy meals. The results were transformative. Later in life, similar experiences reinforced the connection between my diet and well-being. Nutrition, sleep, and alcohol all play a role – simple truths we often forget.

As a mother now, my desire to nourish the world with good food has intensified. It’s about becoming the best versions of ourselves. While occasional indulgences are human, we can strive to be better each day.