Welcome to Haiyan Food: My Journey to Healthy Eating

Hola, 你好, Bonjour,

Today, I’m typing this from Orange County, California, knowing that one day in the future, I will start my own food business. This blog is the first step of that journey. Food has always been my biggest exciment for my 36 years of life. It shapes my memories, influences my health, and now inspires a new chapter in my life. Today, I begin this blog to share my journey from a foodie with simple cravings to someone who cooks with love, intention and cares about health. Welcome to Haiyan Food.

I made pan-fried dumplings today

Childhood Memories and Early Food Adventures

Growing up in a small city in China, food was a source of joy and adventure. One vivid memory stands out: when I was about seven, I followed my brother and his friends to a small creek under a bridge. The water was clean then, and those boys caught tiny crabs from the creek. Despite their reluctance to let me join, I tagged along just to taste the crabs they cooked over a candle flame. It was a simple, raw experience that connected me to food in a very direct way.

Back then, I didn’t think much about nutrition or health. Food was about taste and the thrill of discovery. Eating, sleeping, and playing with friends were my passion. This early curiosity planted the seed for my lifelong love of food.

College Years and Learning About My Body

In college, my relationship with food became more complicated. I often ate too much, indulging in whatever was available, which led to stomach problems. I experienced discomfort from overeating and sometimes vomiting. This taught me something important: my digestive system is sensitive and reacts quickly to unhealthy eating habits. Unlike many who suffer from acid reflux or heartburn, my body simply rejects food that doesn’t agree with it.

This experience was a turning point. I realized that food affects not only my enjoyment but also my well-being. It was the first step toward understanding the balance between craving and health.

Moving to the United States and Discovering Cooking

When I moved to the United States in 2012, I found that good, tasty food was not always easy to find. This scarcity pushed me to learn how to cook. At first, my cooking skills were basic. I focused on flavor rather than nutrition, often adding a lot of spices to make dishes more exciting. This approach helped me enjoy meals but didn’t always support my health.

Cooking became a way to connect with my roots and explore new tastes. It was also a way to control what I ate, which was important since I was far from home and familiar foods.

Life in California and Embracing Healthy Eating

In 2015, I moved to California, a place known for its diverse food culture. Here, I discovered a wide range of Asian cuisines and dishes from other cultures. This exposure broadened my palate and inspired me to experiment more in the kitchen.

At the same time, I faced various health challenges that made me rethink my eating habits. I learned to prioritize nutrition alongside taste. This meant choosing fresh ingredients, balancing flavors without overwhelming spices, and paying attention to how food made me feel.

Why I Started This Blog

Haiyan Food is my way of sharing what I eat and how I live a healthier life. This blog will document my ongoing journey with food—from cravings to cooking to mindful eating. I want to offer practical ideas and honest stories that anyone interested in food and health can relate to.

Whether you love bold flavors, want to improve your diet, or are curious about different cuisines, I hope my experiences inspire you. Cooking is not just about feeding the body; it’s about nurturing the soul and building a lifestyle that supports well-being.

This blog is a space for anyone who loves food and wants to make better choices. It’s about enjoying every bite while caring for your body.