Q. Exactly what are nutrients and how important are they?
A.
The human body is a complex machine, which needs fuel to operate, and the fuel we give it comes directly from the things we eat and drink. The foods we eat contain nutrients that are absorbed into our bloodstream basically through digestion and are involved in all body processes.
The six important nutrients are carbohydrates, proteins, lipids (fats), water, vitamins and minerals. These individual nutrients differ in form and function, and in the amount needed by the body, but they are all vital for energy, organ function, cell growth, combating infection, repairing tissue, digestion of food, weight management and general wellbeing. They allow us to sustain life by providing us with the basic materials our bodies need to carry on their daily functions.
We are all biologically different, and although everyone is unique we all need the six main nutrients because they are the basic building blocks of a good diet. By choosing the healthiest forms of each and eating them in the proper balance at the right time, we can help towards our body being as healthy as possible, and functioning at its optimal level for many years.
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Q. Do I need to eat breakfast?
A.
Never skip breakfast as it is the most important meal of the day. Eating something healthy first thing replenishes nutrients and energy stocks depleted overnight, stimulates the metabolism and digestive system, regulates blood sugar and energy levels, and staves off snack attacks later in the morning.
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Q. Do I need to take supplements?
A.
Much has been said and written about supplements over the years by many influential bodies and so called experts. There are a lot of erroneous beliefs, misinformation, and hidden agendas about supplements and I must admit that I am a convert myself following my own extensive research. I am now a great believer in some form of supplementation for everyone, and I take them daily myself.
Today you cannot get the full quota of nutrients you need, solely from the food you eat, even although many of us eat a “balanced” diet. This is due to soil depletion (caused by pesticides, herbicides & synthetic pesticides), antibiotics & hormones, food processing, additives, storage, transportation and modern cooking processes, not to mention individual poor eating, absorption and digestion.
From the soil to when you eat, the nutrient content is gradually eroded. Apart from your food intake, other factors in your lifestyle effect your bodily functions and nutritional supplementation is a good way of redressing the balance.
Consumption is dependent on a number of factors and it is vital that people seek proper advice from a qualified person, on what supplements to take, in what combination to take them, when to take them, and why they should be taking them in the first place. The majority of people taking them are self-prescribing and in many instances they are doing themselves more harm than good, without realising it. Not all supplements are created equally, therefore it is important that you get qualified advice on the merits of the many brands available in the marketplace.
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Q. We are hearing a lot these days about good fat’s. What are they and why are they good?
A.
Fat isn’t all bad and everyone needs to increase their intake of a class of fats called essential fatty acids (EFAs) known to many of us as the omega 3, 6 and 9 fat families. Many people are deficient in these important nutrients, plus they need to be consumed in the right proportion to each other. They are called essential, as they are vital to our health and wellbeing and must be obtained from foods.
They can improve immune function, raise energy levels, increase calorie burning, regulate and enhance nutrient activity, curb cravings, minimise joint strain and contribute to healthy skin, hair and nails. Good dietary sources are a good quality olive oil, avocados, oily fish and raw nuts & seeds.
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Q. How much water do I really need to drink daily?
A.
The human body comprises around two thirds water, so ensuring a regular supply is essential. It is involved in nearly every bodily process including digestion, absorption, circulation, excreting waste material out of the body and reducing the risk of toxins building up in the bloodstream. Every cell, tissue and organ needs water to function properly.
During daily activities and through bodily functions, daily water loss can be between 1 – 1.5 litres, and replacing these lost fluids is essential if the body is to be kept in balance and in particular if we are exercising and sweating. Dehydration is a common cause of health complaints such as headaches, mood swings, constipation, dry skin, lethargy, fatigue and lack of concentration. It is often mistaken for hunger and there is increasing evidence that it is a contributing factor in more major ailments.
Try and drink at least 1.5 to 2 litres of still water, which is only six - eight 250ml glasses spread throughout the whole day, although it should be pointed out that we do obtain water from foods, especially fruit and vegetables. Don’t drink too much at once as valuable nutrients can be washed through without absorption. Our stomach needs to be lubricated, not flooded and by consuming too much at once the body will not use most of the water.
A mug of hot water on its own, or with squeezed lemon juice is great first thing in the morning. A good quality herbal tea, without any additives or flavourings, count towards your daily water quota.
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Q. I don’t sleep too well, will this affect my long-term health and can nutrition help?
A.
Sleep in particular is one of the basic essentials for optimum health. Disturbed sleep patterns do contribute to illness, ailments, premature ageing, fatigue, irritability and affects memory & concentration. Good sound sleep on the other hand rests our bodily systems, boosts our immune system and helps absorption of foods & nutrients that we have eaten during the day.
Some people need more sleep than others and 6-8 hours on average should be adequate, although some people can feel refreshed after just a few hours. No matter the length of sleep it is important that people wake up refreshed, not tired, and everyone needs to adjust to their own rhythm. If they sleep less at night they can take a nap during the day, as even a few minutes of sleep or meditation can refresh the brain. Many experts are now saying that the key to feeling energetic and focused in the morning is not so much our sleep patterns, but what we are doing when we are awake.
Nutrition, dietary and lifestyle changes can definitely help with sleep and nutritional supplements should also be considered.
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Here are just a few of the most commonly asked questions I have received from my existing clients and from people inquiring about our services. 