Simple Ways to Enhance Nutrition & Supplement
I remember visiting my allopathic physician in Vancouver BC as I was preparing to leave for naturopathic medical school. Although he was proud of my choice to venture into the medical field he had reservations about the TYPE of medicine I wanted to practice. He stood tall over me and peered through his glasses. “You aren’t going to be one of THOSE Naturopathic doctors that hands people bags and bags of supplements to take, are you?. I answered “No, of course not! I want to help people so they do not have to be dependent on medications and/or supplements”. With that, he patted me on the back, “well, good luck then, you’ll be a fine doctor”.
Years later, I still can remember everything about that conversation. It had a lasting impact on how I choose to practice. I only recommend supplements or therapies that I take myself, or that I would take if I were in the similar situation as my client or patient. I cringe at the thought of a patient leaving the office, spending as much or more on health products then they did on the actual office visit. That being said, there are exceptions, there are times when supplements/products are necessary. My aim is to use these products temporarily, to help bring the body into balance, and then have them receive the nutrients they need from their diet and lifestyle.
Side Note:
How much do you think people spend on conventional medications per month? Per year?
How much do they spend on over-the-counter medications – from laxatives, to allergy medications, to pain killers?
Unfortunately our diets today are lacking in the essential vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids necessary for optimal health. As we juggle the various tasks of the day – from work to family to errands, we end up choosing foods that are fast and convenient. Sadly, this means processed, high sodium, carbohydrate rich, and fat filled foods for most individuals.
No only are these food nutrient deficient, they can also contribute to various health conditions when eaten on a regular basis.
What are some simple ways to improve your nutritional intake?
• Consume a variety of nutrient dense foods daily
5-6 servings of fruits and vegetables daily
Consume essential fatty acids – nuts and seeds are great options. Wild caught seafood another wonderful contribution to the diet.
Add beans and legumes to the diet – the fiber and nutrient rich foods are so satisfying healthy!
If you choose to eat grains, opt for whole grains – steal cut oats, unpearled barley, wild rice, etc instead of white flour products
Make sure to choose lean, free-range sources of protein if you are a meat eater. Dairy products from grass fed animals are higher antioxidants such as Vitamin A, E and beta carotene.
• Protect nutrients during cooking
Avoid overcooking
Light steaming or grilling is best of vegetables
• Choose all natural or organic whenever possible
Storage or transportation can harm food nutrients (especially Vitamin A, C, and polyphenols). Also decrease carbon footprint when choosing local produce.
• Choose high quality supplement product
Not all supplement companies are created equal. You want to choose products that are free of fillers, colors, coatings, and preservatives. The product is suppose to “supplement” nutrition NOT add more harmful allergens into the system. For the most part, you get what you pay for when purchasing supplements. If the product is extremely inexpensive, you are likely purchasing a product that is filled with binders and other excipents verses the pure extract/nutrient.
Research the company to determine if it has a 3rd party assay its products, assuring it’s quality. If a 3rd party lab is testing the company products – you are likely making a wise purchase and receiving a high quality supplement. I encourage you to always read labels and consult with your healthcare provider for advice.
I only eat grass-finished beef. The meat is higher in omega-3 fatty acids (nearly as much as fish) and much leaner.
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