naturopathic medicine

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Nutrition

Natural holistic nutrition is based on traditional and scientific understanding of metabolic pathways involved in the breakdown of ingested nutrients and how many disease states may be prevented by correcting the deficiency using diet and nutritional supplements.

A good wholesome balanced diet is integral to good health. Natural holistic nutrition teaches how to heal yourself and prevent illness with nutritious whole foods. Correct nutrition will enhance immunity, prevent chronic disease and increase wellbeing and longevity.

Vitamin and mineral supplementation is important these days due to the modern Western diet which is full of highly processed and refined foods. These foods are high in empty calories, contain very little nutritional value, are low in essential vitamins and minerals, and packed with sugars and artificial additives. As a result of drastic depletion of our soil by modern agricultural methods, foods grown today contain fewer minerals and nutrients than in the past. Buying organic whenever you can, and having a healthy wholesome balanced diet will ensure optimal nutrient intake as well as reduce your intake of pesticides and chemicals sprayed on fruits and vegetables.

Life in today's society is demanding and fast paced and increased stressors place higher nutritional demands on the body. Vitamin and mineral supplements are an important addition to a healthy diet. They reduce the risk of ill health due to vitamin and mineral deficiencies.

Importance of Fibre

Fibre is commonly known for its important role in bowel health. Dietary fibre is used in the treatment of constipation, helps rid the body of toxins and promotes regular bowel movements. Dietary fibre helps prevent colon cancer. Other major functions of dietary fibre include lowering and controlling cholesterol levels, stabilising blood sugar levels, reducing glucose/insulin levels after a meal (delaying stomach emptying which is beneficial for diabetics), decreasing hunger (increasing satiety) and thereby helping with weight loss. Fibre also provides short-chain fatty acids for intestinal cells, which promotes the growth of acid loving good bowel flora. This assists with digestion and strengthens the immune system.

Foods which are rich sources of dietary fibre include: wholegrain cereals (breads, pasta, brown rice, oats), fruit and vegetables, legumes, psyllium husks, rice and wheat bran.

Perfect Fiber Mix
1 cup flaxseed meal
1 cup slippery elm powder
1/2 cup psyllium husks
1 cup rice bran
1 tsp ground ginger
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground turmeric, fennel, cumin or carrot powder
1 tsp acidophilus powder

Mix all ingredients together and keep in the fridge.
Add acidophilus powder when ready to serve.
Use 1 Tbsp on cereal or in smoothies.