Nutrition
Pros and Cons of Elimination Diets
Our digestive system is a huge portal into our bodies. Lots of things can get in there that aren’t always good for us. And because the system is so complex (knowing which tiny molecules to absorb, and which keep out), lots can go wrong. And that’s one reason why 70% of our immune system lives…
Read More4 Ways to Boost Your Morning Metabolism
We’re all looking for ways to lose weight and build a little muscle. It’s good for your health and it looks great. However, many of us are not doing the most important things to achieve these goals. One of the most important things you can do to lose weight and build muscle is to…
Read MoreWhat Makes Broccoli and Kale Superfoods?
Broccoli and kale are often touted to be “superfoods.” And, yes, they really are amazingly healthy for you. If you’re wondering what exactly is in these green powerhouses that makes them so “super,” I’ve dived into the research to give you some nerdy reasons to make these a staple in your diet. To start, they’re…
Read MoreJuly 2018 Nutrition Newsletter
New research suggests that fat cells can be altered by the fatty acid palmitic acid (found in palm oil, dairy products, and meat) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha), a hormone associated with inflammation. Cells that have not fully matured are known as “precursor” cells. These cells have the potential to become muscle, fat, or…
Read MoreWhat Makes a Food Processed?
The world of food can be so confusing at times. There was a time when it was clear what food was – it came directly from nature – whether foraging, hunting, or farming. Now there are so many things we eat that don’t resemble a natural food. Michael Pollan has a famous quote, he…
Read MoreThickeners – What You Need to Know
Thickeners are one of many ingredients added to processed foods. And they do just that: thicken. They absorb water and form a gel-like consistency. They’re often used to make foods thick and creamy, without having to add a lot of fat. Thickeners also tend to emulsify and stabilize foods they’re added to. Emulsification allows fats…
Read MoreWhat to do About a Leaky Gut
Leaky gut is also known as increased intestinal permeability. It’s when the cells lining our intestines (gut) separate a bit from each other. They’re supposed to be nice and tightly joined to the cell beside it; this is to allow certain things into our bodies (like nutrients), and keep other things out. When the…
Read MoreLow Carb Diet 101
Low carb diets have been popular on and off since the dawn of the Atkins fame (and maybe even earlier?). But, what exactly defines low carb? Does eating this way actually help with weight loss? Are there any other health benefits (or risks) to eating fewer carbs? Let’s see. What is a carb? A carb,…
Read MoreIf You Take Medications, You Need to Know About Grapefruit
Grapefruit is good for you! It’s a vitamin C-rich citrus fruit that’s low in sugar and contains vitamin A, potassium, and fibre. It has a low glycemic index and does not spike your blood sugar when you eat it. The pink and red varieties also contain lycopene. It’s definitely a nutritious health-promoting food. It even…
Read MorePrebiotics 101
“Prebiotic’s”? Yes! They’re the food that we feed our probiotics, the friendly gut microbes that are oh so important for good health. Our gut microbes are alive, and they need to eat too. Their favorite foods are called “prebiotics” and include dietary fiber and resistant starch. The same fiber that keeps us feeling full slows…
Read More