🍃 Introduction
Welcome to another enlightening episode of Wake Up and Read the Labels, the podcast that uncovers the truth about what we’re eating and how it affects our health. 🌱 This episode is packed with tips on clean eating, understanding why today’s food isn’t the same as it was decades ago, and how regenerative farming holds the key to better health and sustainability. 🎙️

In today’s episode, we sit down with Leah Delight, a chef, educator, and advocate for real food, gut health, and regenerative farming. Leah’s passion for clean eating is contagious, and her journey is one of resilience, education, and love for creating food that nourishes both body and soul. 💚

---

🍽️ The Connection Between Food, Mental Health, and Gut Health
Did you know your food can have a direct link to your mental health and overall well-being? 🤯 Leah talks about her awakening moment while producing campaigns for mental health. She noticed a critical link between food, gut health, and the mental struggles many people face.

“Our immunity and gut health are so important. It all starts with what we put into our bodies.”

Leah’s journey began when she realized the negative impact processed foods have on immunity and overall health. By switching to clean, natural, and organic food, she not only helped her own family but inspired countless others to change their eating habits.

---

🌾 Why Wheat Isn’t the Same Anymore
One of the key takeaways? Wheat has drastically changed in America. 🚫 What was once a staple food has now become a trigger for inflammation, bloating, and fatigue. Leah breaks it down:

• The government modified wheat for faster production after World War II.
• The wheat today is often bleached, refined, and stripped of nutrients.
• Pesticides like glyphosate are sprayed, disrupting our gut microbiome and making food more addictive.

🍞 The Solution? Ancient Grains and Real Ingredients
When possible, choose:
✅ Ancient grains grown using regenerative farming.
✅ Organic and minimally processed flours.
✅ Bread baked without synthetic additives.

Leah emphasizes that clean food doesn’t mean boring food. Her creations, like grain-free, sugar-free donuts, prove that eating clean can still include treats without harming your body. 🍩✨

---

🧑‍🍳 Tips for Eating Out Clean
For many, dining out is a challenge when trying to eat clean. Here are Leah’s tips for navigating restaurants:

1️⃣ Ask about oils – Avoid seed oils like canola and opt for butter or olive oil.
2️⃣ Choose sides wisely – Go for vegetables, sweet potatoes, or clean proteins.
3️⃣ Stick to mom-and-pop restaurants – Smaller establishments often source from local farms.
4️⃣ Bring your own wine – Organic, sulfite-free wine is a great alternative.

✨ Pro Tip: Use apps like Seed Oil Scout to find restaurants committed to clean cooking practices.

---

🌱 What is Regenerative Farming?
Regenerative farming is a buzzword for a reason—it’s the future of food sustainability. 🌎 Leah explains it as a process that “regenerates the soil” through natural practices like:

• Animal rotation – Chickens, pigs, and cows fertilize the soil naturally.
• Avoiding chemical pesticides and synthetic fertilizers.
• Growing nutrient-dense crops that are good for the environment and our health.

This ancient farming method helps combat climate change while producing food that’s rich in nutrients. Leah believes that by supporting farmers practicing regenerative agriculture, we’re voting for a healthier planet. 🧡

---

🏡 Family Meals and Finding Joy in Food Prep
Leah’s message is clear: Food is about connection. Gathering around the table with your loved ones isn’t just about eating—it’s about creating joy and fostering family bonds.

Did you know?
🍽️ Adolescents who eat family meals are less likely to use alcohol, drugs, or struggle with low self-esteem.

Leah encourages families to make cooking and meal prep an enjoyable experience:
🎶 Put on some music.
🍷 Have a glass of wine.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Turn it into a communal activity.

By reconnecting with food and each other, we not only nourish our bodies but our minds and relationships too. 💫

---

🎉 Closing Thoughts
Leah’s story is a powerful reminder that food is more than just fuel. It’s about health, happiness, and sustainability. Whether you’re a beginner on your clean eating journey or a seasoned pro, there’s always something new to learn. Start by reading the labels, supporting local farmers, and choosing food that heals rather than harms. 🥦

Thank you for joining us on Wake Up and Read the Labels! Remember to share this episode with anyone who needs a little motivation to eat clean and feel their best. 🥰

👉 Visit Eat Marketplace in Southern California for clean, delicious food made with love.