Make Your Everyday Eating Smarter – 5 Tips from Emilia Vuorisalmi

Traditional coated kitchen tools can release harmful compounds at high temperatures, which have been linked to hormone disruption and added stress on the body. That’s why it’s worth choosing high-quality, non-toxic, and safe alternatives.

Emilia favours using HEIROL kitchenware, which not only is beautiful but also safe to use. Quality materials aren’t just safer, they’re also more durable and more enjoyable to use in everyday life.

Many people think that food needs to be cooked on the highest heat possible to make it crispy and tasty. But did you know that too high a temperature can actually reduce the nutritional value of your food and even increase the body’s overall burden?

When food or fats are heated above 200°C, compounds such as acrylamides and AGEs (advanced glycation end products) begin to form. These substances can contribute to low-grade inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, both of which can impair cellular function and long-term well-being.

That’s why it’s recommended to cook food on low to medium heat. It not only protects your health, but it’s also better for your cookware - especially if you use pans. Excessive heat can damage the coating and shorten the lifespan of your kitchen tools.

Plastic cutting boards may seem convenient and lightweight, but over time they can release microplastics that end up in your body through food. Microplastics are suspected to negatively affect gut microbiota and disrupt hormonal balance, which can impact long-term well-being.

A wooden cutting board, on the other hand, is naturally antibacterial and a much safer choice for everyday kitchen use. It also stays beautiful with proper care, lasts a long time, and adds a natural warmth and coziness to your kitchen. The natural grain of the wood also protects your knife’s edge, making it a practical and durable choice.

Stress affects digestion, hormonal function, and overall well-being. One of the most effective ways to reduce daily strain is to change your inner dialogue. Instead of thinking, “I have to cook again,” try thinking, “I get to take a moment to care for myself and nourish my body.” It’s also important to remember that preparing food for others, such as your friends and your kids, is a source of gratitude that brings warmth and meaning to everyday life.

The atmosphere during meals has a surprisingly big impact on nutrient absorption and digestion. When you eat without rushing, in good company, or with a grateful mindset, your body produces more oxytocin and stress hormones decrease. This improves digestion, reduces bloating, and supports the body’s recovery. Mindful eating is one of the simplest ways to boost well-being without having to change your entire diet.