Before I hit 40, I equated the word “diet” with fitting into a swimsuit for summer. However, as I’ve aged—yes, I said it—my perspective has shifted. Now, my reading material on nutrition has less to do with aesthetics and more about maintaining good health. Though I still come across the same advice repeatedly—go for seasonal organic produce, shop the edges of the grocery store, read labels, eat clean, and prioritize local foods—I recently realized that I had absorbed these lessons long ago at summer camp when I was just 12.
My camp experience was quite different from the idyllic scenes portrayed in movies like Parent Trap. Instead of charming cabins and organized activities, I attended a functioning ranch. Our accommodations were cots beneath the stars, and we had tarps under our mattresses to create makeshift shelters during rain. For restroom breaks, we trekked to the nearest outhouse, and handwashing was done in a metal trough. Showers? Outdoors, of course, with water heated over a wood fire—if you were last in line, you’d better hope for warmth!
Every day was filled with exciting activities such as horseback riding, canoeing, and swimming. But what truly stood out was the responsibility each camper had to help maintain the ranch. The horses we rode, as well as the rabbits, chickens, and cows, relied on our care. Not to mention the sustainable garden and ranch infrastructure that needed our attention. We were not just campers; we were vital contributors.
In a world overflowing with fad diets and quick-fix solutions, both aging and my running routine have made me reflect on the nutritional options available. The more I explore this topic, the more I realize that the fundamentals are simple, mirroring the lessons I learned in my youth:
1. Prioritize Seasonal Produce
What was harvested from the garden made its way to our meals. I spent countless hours on my hands and knees tending to that garden, which provided a bounty of fresh, seasonal produce. The flavors were vibrant and distinct, a far cry from items picked prematurely and shipped long distances. While I may struggle to maintain a garden at home, I make a point to visit the bustling local farmer’s market.
2. Choose Whole Ingredients You Can Pronounce
At camp, meals were prepared using ingredients sourced from the ranch itself. The food was simple yet incredibly flavorful—think shepherd’s pie, fresh eggs, and oh, the bread! The camp baker created dough from scratch, and we were greeted by the heavenly aroma of bread baking in the outdoor oven after afternoon activities. The ingredient list was short and sweet, free of additives and preservatives. In short, the best bread I ever tasted was made with care and real ingredients.
3. Understand the Source of Your Meat
Although I’m not a hunter and the sight of blood unnerves me, camp provided a unique perspective on the life cycle of the animals we consumed. I witnessed the birth of a calf and understood the respect the ranch staff had for the animals. It’s essential to acknowledge where our food comes from and how these creatures are treated during their lives, regardless of your dietary choices.
4. Savor Natural Sweetness
Our camp strictly regulated sugary treats; every package was searched for contraband, including candies and sodas. We went two weeks with minimal sugar, relying mostly on fruit-based desserts. By the second week, I was eager to pick fresh berries from the bushes, which tasted divine after such a long break. When our parents picked us up, we begged to stop at the local café for ice cream, a treat that felt like an indulgence after our two-week dessert fast. This experience taught me that sweets should be special and enjoyed in moderation.
Will my grocery cart ever be a flawless representation of healthy eating? Probably not, as perfection is overrated. But I am committed to incorporating these camp lessons into my everyday life. I’m confident that this will lead to meals that are both healthier and tastier.
In conclusion, the wisdom I gained at camp has proven timeless. From understanding seasonal produce to appreciating the origins of our food, these fundamental principles continue to guide my approach to healthy living. As I navigate my dietary choices, I find inspiration in these early lessons.
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