nourishment, our way
The way we view our health is impacted by many factors. How we were raised, our interests, our current health status. We are not often taught how our bodies are unique and ever changing throughout the life cycle. Often times, we are left to learn through books, social media & friends, rather than our doctors.
Many of my clients experience a variety of symptoms related to our Hypothalamic-Pituitary Axis, which controls our stress hormones. Women’s sex hormones (progesterone, estrogen & testosterone) also play a role in how we feel and how our body works. Our vitamin and mineral status also impacts how our cells function & how much energy we have. But what does all this mean and how do we think outside the box to better understand our bodies? Let’s start with some of the basic concepts we value here at Unfiltered Nourishment.
Nourishment is More Than Just Food
Without properly nourishing your body with restful sleep, exercise, pleasure, joy and human connection, we cannot be the healthiest version of ourselves. I encourage my clients to set daily, weekly and monthly intentions that encompass more than just food. Balance between all four “bodies” (physical, mental, emotional, spiritual) is something we create.
Eating an “Inclusive” Plant Based Diet: I encourage my clients to eat plenty of fruits & veggies. The fiber these foods provide is so benefical for the gut microbial diversity and can help us feel satisfied with our meals. However, we talk a lot about balance over here. Which includes having a balance of fats and proteins in our diet (fruis and veggies are mainly made of carbohydrates). In highschool and college, I fell into a pattern of thinking I was being so healthy eating tons of salads and fruits. Yet I was vastly under-nourishing myself and contributing to poorly controlled blood sugar with all the carbs I was eating. In all, balance.
Hydration, but Don’t Forget Minerals: It’s true that many people are dehydrated. However, I do sometimes see clients come to me drinking lots of water, tea & coffee, without enough nutrients, especially minerals for proper digestive and cognitive function! When we drink tons of liquids near a meal, we can dilute our stomach acid, leading to less fully digested foods (paired with not enough chewing & we have a recipe for bloating). You can sip water with a meal, but try not to chug. Instead, drink water in between meals. Also consider if you are eating enough foods rich in minerals, specifically sodium and potassium. See my previous blog, Habit for Replenishing Minerals.
Our bodies are more stressed than ever before in history. While I believe the body can adapt to the ever changing environment, we must think outside of the box when it comes to health. Green drinks & salads alone are not going to make us healthy. In fact, the diet industry is getting more and more creative with their marketing & messaging. “All Natural”, “vegan” and “gluten free” do not make a product healthy.
Real fats, organic meats, fruits & vegetables were the base of what humans have eaten for centuries. We must remember to honor what our bodies need, despite what others may be doing. Ask yourself, is this trend or habit allowing me to feel energized, nourished & confident? Is there something that feels off about how my body is feeling?
Over here at Unfiltered Nourishment we are all about thinking differently than the masses. Staying open to evolve and to change throughout our lives. If this blog resonates with you, I encourage you to consider working with me. Check out my programs at the tab on the top of this screen.
By your side,
Kelli, RD
