Even though Nutrition Month is over, we’re still talking about the theme set up by Dietitians of Canada. This time we will be addressing nutrition and its power to improve certain health issues. While in the last post we focused on prevention, this one is about nutrition and its power to improve health.
CAN FOOD REALLY IMPROVE OUR HEALTH STATUS?
We are confident that small changes in lifestyle can have a positive impact on health. You don’t have to change your entire meals, but rather choose one or two foods to add. Eat a piece of fruit with your breakfast or choose to keep the carrot peel instead of removing it? Why not? It takes less time to prepare and much more time to digest. By choosing one aspect of your nutrition at a time, you don’t feel like you’re sacrificing those foods you love and enjoy! Whether it is to normalize high cholesterol, lower blood pressure or regularize blood sugar levels in the context of diabetes, nutrition can make all the difference.
When we talk about nutrition, we are not talking about a diet! We are talking about a variety of foods that emphasize taste and satiety without feeling pressured to eat one food over another. Feeling energized all day is a good sign that what you eat is improving.
WHEN TO SEE A NUTRITIONIST?
Because long-standing eating habits can be difficult to change, a little help from a nutritionist can make all the difference. Nutritionists are skilled at guiding you towards the food choices you like and customizing your meals to your health condition, tastes, schedule, cooking skills, etc.
Many health problems can be, in part, alleviated through nutrition. Although the list is long, here are a few for which we recommend that you consult a nutritionist near you.
- Digestive disorders and food intolerances/allergies – nutritionists will help you identify the issues to diminish gastrointestinal discomfort and find replacements that will be just as tasty, without the pain that comes with it.
- Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes – Diabetes can be extremely difficult to understand on its own, but it is entirely possible to control and improve blood sugar levels via food. Nutritionists are here to help you make food choices that promote stable blood sugar levels, while finding foods you love.
- High blood pressure and/or high cholesterol – Both conditions are strongly linked to increased risk of cardiovascular events. There are effective permanent solutions to prevent blood pressure or cholesterol from rising.
- Celiac Disease or Gluten Sensitivity – Rare are those who suffer from celiac disease, but many try to avoid gluten. It is not only difficult, but dangerous for those who do so without support, as the risk of deficiencies is high. With the help of a nutritionist, it is possible to find a variety of substitutes to ensure a diet that does not cause any digestive problems, while offering maximum nutrients.
So when you’re wondering what you can do to improve your health, think of us! We’ll be happy to guide you.
Your nutritionists specialized in prevention
