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How do I know how healthy my diet is?
Let's review the Diet Plan 6 information or let's look at the proportion of protein, carbohydrate and fats which you are usually eating. If you have digestive related symptoms then some of your diet is not matching your nutrient needs.
Why is supplementation recommended over and above my dietary plan?
Many of the foods which we eat are shipped far afield and lose nutrients during the process. Further the soils that they are grown in may also be depleted and so few vitamins and minerals are incorporated into the plant.
Pollution and anti-nutrients (smoke, alcohol) consume nutrients which are available from food and may make supplementation necessary.
The recommended nutrient intake known as dietary reference intake (DRI) is only designed to prevent illness. To maximize performance individual nutrient requirements may prove to be much greater than the DRI and need to be individually assessed.
Why am I so tired even though I think I get enough sleep?
Roller coaster blood sugar levels can make you feel extremely tired. Changing the amount and timing of protein and reducing or eliminating refined carbohydrates can alter the balance and restore energy.
If you are constantly stressed it may be that adrenal glands require additional nutrition to improve vitality. Moderate exercise can also relieve stress related fatigue.
If I feel generally sluggish can there be a nutritional cause?
Sluggish, foggy feeling is often a signal of imbalanced detoxification. The liver- the main organ of detoxification may need increased nutrients to eliminate excess hormones, environmental toxins, alcohol and medication byproducts.
What foods are best for me?
Because foods have different phytochemical structures and interact with your biochemistry differently there is no one answer. However living in a toxic, stressful environment one of the primary nutrients required is anti-oxidants. A diet rich in colorful fruits and vegetables provide a good source of anti-oxidants and fiber. Research indicates these are involved in prevention of the prevalent chronic degenerative diseases such as cardiovascular, Alzheimer's', cancer and diabetes.
Why am I often bloated or feel indigestion?
If you have ruled out medical causes such as obstructions in your digestive tract it could be lack of water, reaction to gluten, food allergies, lack of fiber, lack of stomach acid. All of these can be altered through dietary strategies or supplementation.
Why am I suffering from poor sleep even though I'm exhausted?
Alcohol and other stimulants can disrupt sleep. Food allergies, imbalances of calcium and magnesium, poor blood sugar control can also be the culprits.
Can Nutrition help my PMS?
Nutrients to assist with detoxification of excess hormones which can be involved in PMS will address symptoms.
But what about Genetics? My whole family had health problems?
Research into the role of nutrition in gene expression is ongoing. The biochemical cellular environment which can be altered through nutrients is involved in the expression of disease. There is an association between good nutrition and lowered incidence of many health problems.
What are functional tests?
These are laboratory assessments which measure nutrients or toxins to evaluate the body's ability to maintain function. They measure status before there is illness or disease. Additionally they could be used to identify the cause of symptoms which may not show up in other tests.
Is Nutritional Therapy for me?
YES! If you are: busy, stressed-out, exposed to westernized foods, environmental toxins or if you have any symptoms related to obesity, tiredness, insomnia, diabetes, CVD, digestive problems, hormonal problems, skin problems, migraines and headaches, hyperactivity; fatigue; autism, depression to name only a few, Nutritional Therapy CAN help.
Is this covered by health insurance?
Services may be covered under a preventative health scheme. Ask your benefits administrator.
How long does a consultation last?
The initial consultation is usually 1.5 hours, which involves a detailed personal/medical history aimed at identifying the root of symptoms. Follow up appointments are usually 45 minutes.
Where do appointments take place?
Appointments are taken in a business suite. In some cases arrangement can be made for appointments in your own home.
When will I notice any improvements?
This depends on the condition and prior health habits. In my clinical experience symptoms usually begin to dissipate within 2-4 weeks.
If I eat healthy, why would I need a nutritional therapist?
Each person is an individual so "healthy" is a relative term. The nutrients you believe are in some of those foods may not necessarily be there, so you may be shocked by the evaluation of your diet! Stress affects digestion, so even with a healthy diet supplementation could be necessary. Nutrient absorption can also be affected by the medication you are taking or by the state of your gastrointestinal tract. In addition there is a long latency period before the clinical appearance of a condition. When your nutritional intake is adjusted and improved the condition could be delayed or even prevented from ever appearing.
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