Children walked to school, played outside, ran to parks, and returned home on foot. Movement was constant and natural.

2. Food was simple and minimally processed

Refrigerators weren’t filled with ultra-processed products. Meals were built around basic ingredients like vegetables, eggs, meat, milk, and fruit.

Cooking happened at home and took time—washing, chopping, stirring, and cleaning. Even meal preparation required physical effort.

In general:

• Sugar was used sparingly
• Fats were less refined
• Portions were modest
• People ate when hungry, not as a response to stress or boredom

3. Eating followed a clear schedule

Most people ate three meals a day: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Snacking between meals was rare. Vending machines, constant treats, and checkout-line candy weren’t part of everyday life. The body learned to expect food at certain times and rest in between.

4. Portions were smaller by default

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