Weekly Nutrition Tips for the Busy Professional! by Billie Sinclair

Preventing the Flu the "Natural" Way

2009-10-26T15:17:00.000-07:00

Last Wednesday, Ottawa approved the H1N1 influenza vaccine. And on Saturday, U.S. President Barack Obama declared the swine flu outbreak a national emergency.

But is the influenza vaccine the only way to prevent the Swine (and other varieties of the) Flu?

As a Natural Nutritionist, I have been taught that it is absolutely vital to have a strong immune system, which will help fight off diseases, colds, and flu's. But what does that really mean? What exactly is the flu and how do we "catch" it? Or is there another explanation, is the body capable of cleansing itself, with an annual flu-type ritual?

I have heard people say, "I hate that I have the flu but I'm so glad I got sick...I really needed the break from work."

So then ‘catching the flu’ is a modern excuse to blame someone else for our suffering (we caught it off someone else) and quickly escape it and get back to our daily routine of work work work.

What is really happening is the body needs a break to rid itself of stress and accumulated toxins and it starts to cleanse itself. It is the body's own natural defense mechanism against toxic build-up. Taking over-the-counter medications merely slows down or stops the cleansing response.(http://www.detox.net.au/)

In our North American society, we work long hours; we sleep for short periods; we eat de-natured, packaged, high-fat, processed foods; we drink sugar-laden beverages to make it through the day. Do you suppose there's a connection between the way we treat our bodies, and the way our bodies treat us?

About ten years ago, I became ill with the "flu" twice within a few months. Both times, my body ached, my head hurt, my nose ran and, the final assault, after about a week of coughing, I lost my voice to laryngitis. During the second bout with the "flu", I decided I needed to make some lifestyle changes and began researching healthier living practices.

I have been cold- and flu-free for over 6 years now, and have been sharing my simple strategies through this blog, and by speaking to any audience that will listen!

Here are my favorite Do's and Don'ts for strengthening the Immune System, and living a healthy life:

Eat live food at every meal. I eat fresh or frozen fruit at breakfast, and a variety of fresh vegetables throughout the day.
Eat lettuce in at least one meal a day. I have a salad with every lunch and every dinner, 7 days a week.
Cooked veggies are great, but they don't replace fresh live veggies. I eat baby carrots, snap peas, cut celery, cucumber slices, etc throughout the day.
Drink water first thing in the morning. When I wake up, the first thing I put in my stomach is fresh water. When I'm hungry, I drink water first.
Eat nuts in small quantities. I buy my nuts in the baking department or the health food store; not roasted and salted, but raw and unflavored. I mix nuts with dates or cranberries for added flavour.
Limit junk foods. I gave up chips, cheezies, hot dogs, pastries, donuts, candy, and desserts. I eat limited amounts of muffins, breads, and buns. When socializing, I will agree to eating pizza with salad.
Don't drink coffee when you should be eating something. Many people never feel their hunger because they drink so much coffee. Put off coffee, if you're not sure if you're eating enough live, fresh food.
Pack your own lunches. Taking food with you when you leave the house allows you to make your own choices about what you'll eat during the day.
When eating out, try replicating a good home-cooked meal. Restaurant meals are known to be high in fats and sugars; don't be tempted by too many nutrient-poor, high-calorie foods.
Take good quality vitamins and minerals daily. I do this to cover all of my bases.

Well, these are my suggestions for boosting the immune system. Making the decision to have the flu shot or not is personal, and I don't make recommendations of that nature. But I do suggest that, as an individual, you need to start taking a more personal role in deciding who is in charge of your health...the food industry, the pharmaceutical companies, or you?

When Will We Finally Get the "Sugar Message"?

2009-08-24T16:43:00.001-07:00

The American Heart Association (AMA) journal, Circulation, has reported online that North Americans are swallowing 22 teaspoons of sugar each day.

Most of this added sugar comes from soda pop and candy. In fact, there is so much pop sold today in this continent that we all drink, on average, 597 cans per year.

This Summer, McDonald's introduced their Any Size pop for $1. And, for the longest time, the size of the 7-Eleven's pops and slurpies have been growing to enormous proportions... the Big Gulp is 32 oz. of pop, and the Super Gulp is 64 oz. of pop...Slurpies range in size from 12 oz. to 40 oz.

Is all this pop necessary? Does pop even quench thirst? Or does it just delay thirst, and hunger?

Rachel K. Johnson, professor of nutrition at the University of Vermont in Burlington, lead author of the statement published online, says we need to "take a good hard look at our diet. Figure out where the sources of added sugars are and think about how to cut back on those items."

To check for added sugars, look for a variety of ingredients on labels, including sugar, corn syrup, fructose, dextrose, molasses or evaporated cane juice.

Remember that, on average, most women need about 1,800 calories a day and most men need about 2,200 calories to maintain their weight. And added sugar contributes no useful, nutritious calories...so, next time you're thirsty, drink a glass of water first.

Don't camouflage your hunger with a tasty soda...go get some real food!

What the Experts Say...Take Your Vitamins!

2009-06-24T15:30:00.000-07:00

Joe Schwarz, the dirtector of McGill University's Office for Science and Society, recently wrote that "Most people are eating crap and thinking that they'll take a vitamin to equalize things. It's pointless. The problem with our diet is not a lack of vitamins. It's the fat, salt and sugar. Those issues are not addressed by taking more vitamins."

However, according to the World Health Organization, one-third of the world's population doesn't get enough micronutrients. And the deficiency is not just limited to developing nations.

A 2002 study found that 97% of Canadians are deficient in vitamin D through winter and spring, while University of Guelph researchers say 78% of Canadian children are low in omega-3 fatty acids. Many of us are also short on iron, calcium and - depending on whether you smoke, drink too much or are overweight - vitamins C and B as well.

"My view is that a supplement should never be taken as a silver bullet to replace a healthy diet or lack of exercise," says Brett Waslefsky, president of an Arizona-based company that makes supplements aimed at people in certain careers, such as nurses and teachers.

And Sherry Torkos, a Niagara-based pharmacist and author of The Canadian Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine (Wiley, 2008) said, "The truth is that most people are not getting nearly enough fruits and vegetables. Supplements can be used to complement a healthy diet and lifestyle to make up for things that cause deficiencies, like smoking, eating food with a lower nutritional value and drinking too much."

Every week, I promote adopting better eating habits, getting physically active, and supplementing with a select group of essential nutrients. My favorite supplements are still the BodyWise products, manufactured in California by Vita Tech International http://www.vitatech.com/ .

For the everyday needs of you and your family members, I recommend the AM (multi-vitamin), the PM (multi- mineral), and the Beta C (Vit C from mixed carotenoids).

For more specific health concerns, such as sports performance or sports-related injuries, send an e-mail to bsinclair@mybodywise.org and I will be happy to provide a nutritional consultation and supplement recommendation.

Magnificent Mind - At Any Age...

2009-06-07T15:57:00.000-07:00

According to Dr. Daniel G. Amen, author of Magnificent Mind at Any Age, most of us take our brains for granted.

But we can promote brain health by consuming the following foods:

lean protein, such as fish, chicken, and turkey
complex carbohydrates, that are low on the glycemic index, such as leafy greens
salmon, tuna, avocado, and walnuts (foods that contain Omega 3 fatty acids)
water, to avoid dehydration
blueberries
broccoli
oatmeal
oranges
red bell pepper
spinach
eat from the rainbow...foods of many colors provide the most anti-oxidants
fish oil supplements*
multi-vitamin/mineral formulations**

And it's probably not a coincidence that those lifestyle habits that protect the brain also contribute to the health of all our other organs!

* Super Omega $24 One Month Supply
** AM/PM $42 One Month Supply
Ask about purchasing these great products today from:
BODY BALANCE Smoothie & Snack Bar (778) 229-9271

Eating Fruit on an Empty Stomach...Why?

2009-05-21T11:50:00.000-07:00

It is commonly believed that the human stomach should be able to digest any number of different foods at the same time. However, digestion is governed by physiological chemistry. It is not what we eat that is crucial to our health, but what we digest and assimilate.

The principle behind food combining is that different food classes require different enzymes, different rates of digestion, and different digestive pHs for proper digestion. If the foods of the different food classes are combined incorrectly, the specific requirements for their proper digestion tend to cancel each other out.

For example, flesh foods require an acid media for digestion, whereas milk is highly alkaline, so it can neutralize the acid required for digesting the flesh foods.

Fruit digestion results in the release of an alkaline secretion, which neutralizes the acid secretions that are needed for protein digestion. Because of this, it is not a good idea to eat fruits and proteins at the same meals.

Some foods are digested faster than others. If fast-digesting foods, like fruits, are held up in the digestive system for a longer time than necessary through being combined with foods that digest more slowly, fermentation takes place. For this reason, you will experience better digestion when fruits and starches (which are digested slowly) are eaten at different meals.

Fruits and vegetables require different digestive enzymes, which tend to neutralize each other, so these too are best eaten at separate meals.

Swimming as a Work-Out Option

2009-04-17T16:05:00.000-07:00

At last, warmer temperatures are greeting us as we step out of our homes…Spring is in the air! Most of us have a little winter baggage to shed, and bathing suit season, only 3 short months away, looms large in our minds.

Other signs of a West Coast Spring are all around us…fair weather runners are out in droves, with the Sun Run scheduled for April 19th. We breathe the warmer air in, stretch our limbs in every direction, and look forward to the freedom of our lighter wardrobes.

Did you know that regular swimming builds endurance, muscle strength and cardio-vascular fitness? It can serve as a cross-training element to your regular workouts. Before a land workout, you can use the pool for a warm-up session.

Swimming with increasing effort to gradually increase your heart rate and stimulate your muscle activity, is easily accomplished in the water. After a land workout, swimming a few laps can help you cool-down, move blood through your muscles to help them recover, and help you relax as you glide through the water.

Swimming burns calories at a rate of about 3 calories a mile per pound of bodyweight. If you weigh 150 lbs. and it takes you 30 minutes to swim one mile (1,760 yards or 1,609 meters), then you will be using about 900 calories in one hour.

Swimming is also an activity that the whole family can enjoy, so come down to MBody Fitness & Wellness Spa (in the Pacific Palisades Hotel) and splash into Spring in our beautiful 55’ warm-water lap pool! Or join us for an Aqua Fit class (call ahead for our current class schedule) and take advantage of the buoyancy that water has to offer, while getting a full body workout.

Not ready for the full dip but still want to shed the winter blahs? Drop in and use the Jacuzzi, steam room or, for a small additional charge, try a few sessions in our Infra-Red Sauna. The benefits of infra-red are many, such as detoxification, relieving aches and pains, and weight loss.

Even though our West Coast Winter was reasonably kind this year, plan now to enjoy Spring to the fullest!

Joint Health

2009-04-03T14:07:00.000-07:00

Joint Health

Glucosamine Sulfate
Chondroitin Sulfate
Avocado/Soy Unsaponifiables (ASU)

These three natural ingredients are proven to provide unparalleled support for the health of joints and connective tissues.

Glucosamine and chondroitin both play a role in joint health by providing the raw materials the body uses to manufacture complex molecules called proteoglycans, which are the building blocks of joint tissue. Supplementing with glucosamine may help to rebuild cartilage and treat arthritis.

ASU is a unique ingredient, pioneered in France, which has been clinically shown to have remarkable benefits for joint health.

Potassium has been known to relieve the pain of arthritis.

Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) provides sulfur, a vital building block of joints, cartilage, skin, hair and nails, and methyl groups, which support many vital biochemical processes in the body, including energy production.

MSM is a naturally-occurring nutrient found in small amounts in many foods. As a dietary supplement, MSM is synthesized. When made correctly, it is identical to that found in nature. MSM can be taken alone or in combination with other joint health nutrients, such as glucosamine and chondroitin.

Hyaluronic acid is a major constituent of cartilage, providing structure and holding water and nutrients.

Special herbal extracts, such as white willow bark and boswellia, help soothe joint tissue.

Recommended Daily Intake
While a recommended daily intake has not been established for Glucosamine Sulfate, most supplements contain a daily dose of 1500 mg.

Cost of our Joint Complete (from Body Wise International)
Available in a 90-count bottle: Take 3 tablets daily, which includes 175 mg Potassium, 1500mg Glucosamine Sulfate, 500 mg MSM, 300 mg ASU, 150 mg Chondroitin Sulfate, plus additional nutrients. $57.60 plus tax

Weekly Nutrition Tip - Calcium

2009-03-29T09:01:00.000-07:00

Calcium, the most abundant mineral in the human body, has several important functions. More than 99% of total body calcium is stored in the bones and teeth where it functions to support their structure. The remaining 1% is found throughout the body in blood, muscle, and the fluid between cells.

Calcium is needed for muscle contraction, blood vessel contraction and expansion, the secretion of hormones and enzymes, and sending messages through the nervous system. A constant level of calcium is maintained in body fluid and tissues so that these vital body processes function efficiently.

Bone undergoes continuous remodeling, with constant resorption (breakdown of bone) and deposition of calcium into newly deposited bone (bone formation). The balance between bone resorption and deposition changes as people age. During childhood there is a higher amount of bone formation and less breakdown.

In early and middle adulthood, these processes are relatively equal. In aging adults, particularly among postmenopausal men and women, bone breakdown exceeds its formation, resulting in bone loss, which increases the risk for osteoporosis (a disorder characterized by porous, weak bones).

Daily Intake

The recommended intake of Calcium for adults 19 - 50 yrs of age is 1000mg per day.
For adults 50+, it's 1200 mg per day.

Common Food Sources

Some common food sources of calcium are: yogurt, sardines, cheddar cheese, canned salmon, cottage cheese, and spinach.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D helps improve calcium absorption. Your body can obtain vitamin D from food and supplements, and it can also make vitamin D when your skin is exposed to sunlight. Thus, adequate vitamin D intake, both from foods and from sun exposure, is essential to bone health.

Cost for Billie's Essential Calcium (Body Wise International)

Available in a large bottle: 120 tablets (250mg tablets), take 4 tablets for 1000mg daily, includes 400 IU Vitamin D = $33 plus tax (wholesale) $33 plus tax.

Here's to strong bones and teeth...

Get back on the horse...

2009-01-10T06:17:00.000-08:00

The Holidays are behind us, and most of us are unhappy with the visible results of the last few months of excess! Now's the time to get back to our routines and schedules, especially the ones that help us with our health and wellness goals.

Since the winter began, I have hurt my knee 3 times. I'm still not walking or sleeping properly without pain so, needless to say, my fitness regimen is completely messed up. At a time like this, most people would simply give up on their goals and consider that they've had another failed attempt to lose weight or look better.

Rather than doing that, I have reduced my caloric intake by adding about 75% more fresh fruits and vegetables to my daily menu. While I know that my "fat loss program" is suffering because I can't do the cardio that I love and need, I also know that I'm doing all that I can do while I manage this setback.

I've had to forego the idea of competing in April but, if all goes well with the healing of my knee over the next few months, I will get back to the gym and into competition mode to prepare for November 2009.

I'm telling you this story to let you know that we all deal with life's curveballs; that the process of going after our goals is mostly about handling contingencies. Fitness goals are alot like relationships, "it's easy when it's easy". Real accomplishment happens in the face of challenge.

So, just in case you've given up on your self or your health and wellness goals, I'm here to tell you that you're exactly where you should be. And that every morning you have an opportunity to start fresh, to get back on the horse, and to keep moving forward.

I'm here to help you get back on that horse! All you have to do is believe in yourself one more time and reach out...

Sports Supplements Review - Part 9 of 9

2008-11-12T06:05:00.000-08:00

Workout Formula

Workout Formula provides essential vitamins and nutrients, trace minerals, and key amino acids to support active involvement in sports and prolonged physical activity.

Also included:

*The branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) leucine, isoleucine, and valine, which are considered essential amino acids because we couldn't survive without them.
* The amino acid glutamine, believed to play a role in several aspects of human physiology, including muscle and immune function
* Essential minerals, chromium, boron, and zinc
* Inlulin Analog, a complex carbohydrate which helps control blood sugar levels, reduces sugar cravings, and contributes to a consistent energy level, without sugar rushes and crashes
* Cytochrome C Oxidase, supplying a key enzyme in aerobic metabolism
* Ornithine alpha-ketoglutarate (OKG) which stimulates muscle growth and blocks the effects of catabolic hormones

Supporting healthy physical activity with a supplement like Workout Formula contributes to athletic performance, and overall health and well-being.

Sports Supplements Review - Part 8 of 9

2008-10-24T09:01:00.000-07:00

Electro Aloe Hydration Crystals

Micronutrients and electrolytes are lost during intense exercise. Consuming a performance sports drink, like Electro Aloe, helps with energy levels and maintaining your electrolyte balance.

Electro Aloe supplies easily-absorbed carbohydrates , essential electrolytes, and trace minerals that are not found in plain water.

One serving of Electro Aloe contains 64% of the USDV for vitamin C, assists in the replenishment of fluids and electrolytes, and provides antioxidants.

Ornithine alpha-ketoglutarate (OKG) stimulates muscle growth and blocks the effects of catabolic hormones that break down muscle tissue.

Inulin Analog is the ultimate complex carbohydrate. It helps control blood sugar levels, reduces sugar cravings, and contributes to a consistent energy level, without sugar rushes and craches.

Add one scoop of Electro Aloe to 12 oz. of water to make one serving. Or dissolve the contents of one can in 2.5 gallons of water and make 27 servings for the team! You'll also enjoy the lemon-lime flavour!

Sports Supplements Review - Part 7 of 9

2008-10-16T05:24:00.000-07:00

AG Immune (Take 2 capsules daily with food)

A healthy immune system is fundamental to overall health. AG Immune contains arabinogalactan, astragalus, maitake mushroom, and Ai/E10.

Arabinogalactan (from the Western larch tree): Decreases the generation and absorption of ammonia in the body during exercise, and has been shown to enhance immune cell activity and communication.

Astragalus Root: Strengthens the body's immune system, speeds up metabolism, amd promotes healthy tissue regeneration.

Maitake Mushroom TD-fraction: Stimulates immune system recovery after exercise; has been used traditionally to promote wellness and vitality.

Ai/E10 whey extract: A product of advanced patented technology, Ai/E10 has, since 1993, continued to be the foremost dietary supplement ingredient available to provide support of immune function in people of all ages; it also promotes immune system recovery after exercise (see http://www.aie10.com/ )

To view a power point on Ai/E10, go to: http://www.aie10.com/video/Introduction%20to%20AiE10.wmv (uses Windows media player)

Tomorrow, I will highlight the sports supplement, Workout Formula.

Sports Supplements Review - Part 6 of 9

2008-10-15T06:33:00.000-07:00

Oxy-G2 (Take 2 capsules daily with food)

The most common cause of human death worldwide is anaerobic microbes. (ref: Mr. Oxygen)

Disease can't live in oxygen. Anaerobic microorganisms can't live in oxygen. So it stands to reason that we need to increase the oxygen levels in our cells.

Oxy-G2 contains a unique combination of ingredients that may assist in carrying oxygen to the cells.

Organic Germanium plays a key role in cellular oxygenation.

Cytochrome C Oxidase supplies a key enzyme in aerobic metabolism.

Selenium assists with high energy expenditures in athletes with vital support for the body's antioxidant defense system to protect against free radical damage.

The herbs gingko, milk thistle, and echinacea provide multiple benefits for cellular and immune system health.

Oxy-G2 is also rich in beta-carotene, vitamins C and E, and glutathione, powerful antioxidants that assist with detoxification and proper immune function.

Tomorrow I'll give you details on a product that will assist you in boosting your immune system.

Sports Supplements Review - Part 5 of 9

2008-10-13T11:01:00.000-07:00

Super Cell Advanced Antioxidant Formula (Take 2 capsules daily with food)

Our bodies are constantly under attack by free radicals, unstable molecules that can damage vital structures such as cell membranes and DNA. Free radicals are created in our bodies as a by-product of metabolism. Chemical pollution, cigarette smoke, radiation, pesticides, and herbicides also add to our free radical burden.

Antioxidants are nature's answer to free radicals, neutralizing their destructive capabilities and protecting our cells and tissues. Some antioxidants are created in the body but many must be derived from our diet.

Super Cell is fortified with citrus bioflavanoids, green tea, grape seed, red wine and a proprietary blend of vegetable concentrates. It is an advanced blend of nutrient, herbal, and whole food antioxidants.

So what can Super Cell specifically do for the athlete in you?

* Ornithine alpha-ketoglutarate (OKG) blocks the effects of catabolic hormones that break down muscle tissue
* Pycnogenol inhibits key triggers of ligament, tendon and muscle inflammation
* Cytochrome C Oxidase supplies a key enzyme in aerobic metabolism
* Magnesium and Calcium asparates combat the effects of ammonia that forms in the body during exercise

Tomorrow, we will focus on Oxy-G, a unique product that may assist in carrying oxygen to the cells...

Sports Supplements Review - Part 4 of 9

2008-10-12T08:40:00.000-07:00

Super Omega - Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs)

Contains Omega-3 fish oil (in a balanced 50/50 ratio of EPA and DHA essential fatty acids), which plays a critical role in maintaining the health of almost all body systems, including the heart, brain, eyes, skin, joints, and the immune system.

Super Omega can help reduce exercise-induced bronchospasm in elite athletes, and may reduce inflammation in muscles and joints, for faster recovery time.

This unique blend is fortified with an antioxidant complex consisting of natural tocopherols, a lipid solution vitamin C, and rosemary extract.

Special processing (molecular distillation) ensures almost complete removal of mercury, dioxins, and other contaminants, yielding an exceptionally pure oil that conforms to the strict quality guidelines of the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN).

Tomorrow, we'll talk about Super Cell, an advanced blend of nutrient, herbal, and whole food antioxidants.

Sports Supplements Review - Part 3 of 9

2008-10-11T13:33:00.000-07:00

Essential Calcium Take 4 tablets daily with food...1000mg Calcium

Calcium plays an important role in regulating whole body metabolism and physical performance.

Calcium, when combined with other essential minerals (such as Zinc and Magnesium) and Vit B6 may raise testosterone levels in males.

At any age, it is extremely important to start thinking about maintaining healthy bones. It's well understood that strong, healthy bones and teeth go hand in hand with calcium. Essential Calcium is a mineral-rich balanced formula to support bone health.

Essential Calcium supplies 1000mg of calcium, and includes Vit D, an essential vitamin known to enhance absorption of calcium.

Magnesium, zinc, copper, boron, and other minerals are included in this formulation for optimum bone health support.

Tomorrow, we'll talk about Essential Fatty Acids.

Sports Supplements Review - Part 2 of 9

2008-10-10T07:33:00.000-07:00

Why is a multi-mineral important for the athlete in you?

PM (Multi-Mineral) Take 3 tablets in the evening, anytime from dinner to bedtime.

Zinc, magnesium, and chromium have been shown to play an important role in regulating the whole body metabolism, as well as in energy needs and performance. They promote increased testosterone in males, and lower lactate concentration.

Pycnogenol increases endurance during exercise, and inhibits key triggers of ligament, tendon, and muscle inflammation.

Read tomorrow's installment on the importance of Calcium.

Sports Supplements Review - Part 1 of 9

2008-10-09T12:21:00.000-07:00

So what's in a multi-vitamin that makes it important for the athlete in you?

AM (Multi-vitamin, take 3 every morning, ideally with your protein shake)

Rich in B Vitamins, anti-oxidants, and nutrients that promote efficient energy utilization, healthy blood sugar levels, metabolism, and overall health.

Alpha-ketoglutarate acid - Promotes quicker recovery after exercise by detoxifying ammonia from the tissues of the central nervous system.

Pycnogenol - Inhibits key triggers of ligament, tendon and muscle inflammation.

Vitamins B6 and B12 - Convert carbohydrates to glucose for energy.

Check back tomorrow for Part 2, PM the Multi-Mineral...

Sports Nutrition Kits Now Available at Sinclair Nutrition

2008-09-24T17:44:00.000-07:00

I am very excited to announce the new Sports Nutrition packages, available now through Sinclair Nutrition.

Are you an arm-chair athlete? A weekend warrior? Or someone who's regularly found on the courts?

Don't leave your nutrition to chance. I believe in removing the nutritional question mark from your plate!

I now offer 3 Sports Kits, which contain all the supplements you will need to create and maintain optimum health for the athlete in you - combined with a great diet and plenty of water, of course!

The Foundation Sports Kit Only $198
The Advanced Sports Kit Only $235
The Elite Sports Kit Only $280

Add a daily protein shake, and there's no stopping you!

Stay tuned for more information about the fantastic nutrients found in each one of the above kits!

Why Go Vegan?

2008-08-31T06:37:00.000-07:00

So far, 9 people are dead, including one British Columbian. With the current recall by Maple Leaf Foods of many varieties, and thousands of packages, of processed meat, produced right here in Canada, the time is ripe to discuss the option of choosing to eat a Vegan Diet.

Listeria is a common but deadly bacterium that in recent years has made headlines as a contaminant of hot dogs, cheese, cole slaw and other food stuffs, causing more than two thousand infections every year and 500 deaths. Though it hits immune-compromised people the hardest, its overall fatality rate is about 20 percent.

Since John Robbins wrote Diet for a New America in 1987, consumers have been exposed to the truth about the meat processing industry. If you think Listeria, or Mad Cow, and your last bout of food poisoning, are caused by mysterious bacterium that you have no control over, you're only partly right. The control is in your hands, based on what you choose to eat.

Maybe it's time you started paying more attention to the massive industry that you trust to provide you with hot dogs and bologna, as well as your Grade A steak. There is a huge consumer movement to bring more awareness to the unsafe, unsanitary, and cruel practices happening every day in the slaughterhouses and factory farms of North America.

Even Paul McCartney once said something like, "if slaughterhouses had glass walls, we'd all be vegetarian."

Don't take my word for it: go do your own research.

http://www.nodowners.org/

http://www.goveg.com/factoryFarming.asp

http://www.animalsuffering.com/animalcruelty.html

http://berkeley.edu/news/media/releases/2000/11/02_listeria.html

And, if you think that the government is taking care of you, and making sure that all of the practices in the meat processing industry are safe, keep researching... you may not like what you discover, and you may just want to go vegan...

September is Arthritis Awareness Month!

2008-08-26T20:49:00.000-07:00

Did you know that there are 120 types of arthritis?

Did you know that 600,000 people in BC and the Yukon have arthritis?

Did you know that nutrition, including vitamin supplements, can play a major role in Arthritis Prevention and Arthritis Management?

Consider the following:

Question: Is a Daily Multivitamin Important for Arthritis Patients?

It is common medical advice for all adults today to take a daily multivitamin. But is it important for arthritis patients to take a daily multivitamin?

Answer: Multivitamins Contain Essential Nutrients

Vitamins contain essential nutrients but many also contain other compounds purported to be good for your health. It is important for both arthritis patients and those without arthritis to take a multivitamin. The nutrients included in an essential multivitamin include:

· Folic Acid and other B vitamins (i.e., Thiamine, Riboflavin, Pantothenic Acid, Pyridoxine, Cyanocobalamin) which are important nutrients for the bone marrow and nervous system.
· Vitamin D which is necessary for proper bone formation and strength.
· Vitamin A which is helpful with vision.

Does a Good Diet Reduce the Need for a Multivitamin?

If you have an excellent diet, you may be able to get these essential nutrients without a supplement, but this is often difficult in today’s society.

How to prevent or alleviate the symptoms of arthritic pain.

Keeping the joints "well-oiled" requires a healthy lifestyle which includes proper nutrition, sleep, and exercise. One of the major causes of arthritis and the lessening of synovial fluid is incorrect diet - too much processed foods, alcohol and meat, and very little raw vegetables and fruits. A deficiency of water also causes the lowering of the levels of the synovial fluid.

Incorrect diet, lack of exercise, injuries and auto-immune diseases such as lupus can also lower the levels of this essential fluid. Often corrective exercise, such as swimming, yoga and muscle strengthening exercises, can help keep the joints pain-free. However, a doctor should be consulted before starting any program, as rapid increases in exercise can put additional strain on other systems of the body.

Delaying the Onset of Arthritis with Nutrition

It is now becoming increasingly evident that good nutrition, along with exercise and injury prevention, can help with improved joint health. A balanced diet should begin in childhood, so that the foundation is laid for a good strong skeletal matrix, which includes joints and connective tissues.

The intake of Calcium together with Vitamins C and D can provide essential nutrients to prevent cartilage and bone damage. Proper iron intake may also keep bone marrow healthy.

These and other simple steps can dramatically increase your chances of living a more active life in old age.

Ref: 1) www.about.com: Arthritis, 2) www.mitamins.com/articles/arthritis/index.html

Breakfast of Champions!

2008-07-19T08:11:00.000-07:00

In North America, we have a wide array of "breakfast foods" to choose from. Everyone knows that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, as it jump-starts our metabolism after a long night of repairing and rebuilding, and depleting our energy resources.

However, most of us screw this up by eating crap in the morning.

What's crap, you ask? Well, while our bodies work best on high-octane fuel, most of us load up our empty tank with grease and sugar and paper mache.

That is to say, bacon and eggs, pancakes, waffles and syrup, sugary cereals, bagels, muffins, croissants, etc, etc - you get the picture.

For years, I ate those things and suffered stomach aches throughout the morning - it didn't matter which of the offenders I tried. Not one was any better than any other.

Then, thanks to becoming associated with Body Wise, I learned about the protein shake for breakfast and my world (and my stomach aches) changed forever.

My daily breakfast for the last 10 years has been and is now 1/2 banana, 1/2 c. of any other luscious fresh or frozen fruit, 1 c. of filtered water, and 2 scoops of the yummiest vanilla protein powder on the planet, thrown together in the blender! It is totally a breakfast of champions! I feel great afterwards, I'm not hungry for about 2 1/2 hours, and I can go about my morning with energy and vitality, instead of with a stomach ache!

Give it a try! You won't be disappointed, as so many of my nutrition clients will attest! Try a different fruit every week. And, while you're at it, choose fruits that are high in antioxidants, for a double whammy in the healthy department.

According to the USDA, the following fruits are exceptionally high in antioxidants:

Wild blueberries (pick them in your neighborhood this fall)
Cranberries
Blackberries
Prunes
Raspberries
Strawberries
Red delicious apples
Granny Smith apples
Sweet cherries
Black plums

Look for organic varieties at your local farmer's market, and enjoy your Breakfast of Champions!

Joints in Motion

2008-06-15T04:56:00.001-07:00

For a long time I've been saying that I need a "strong reason why" to be good. What do I mean by that?

By nature, I would prefer to eat like the rest of North America. To be guided by my taste buds. Did you happen to notice that Starbucks recently started selling donuts? Oh Timmy, what to do about the competition...groan!

For less than $2, you can get a huge, glistening Apple Fritter. While the pasta salad, as creamy and scrumptious as it looks, will cost you $5.95 for about a cup.

Without a "strong reason why", a donut wins hands-down.

But when I have a reason to be good, I can stick with homemade chicken and rice and salad, healthy snacks, lots of water, etc.

For some people, a pending wedding will keep them on the straight and narrow. For others, a recent divorce will put them into high gear to bring their bodies back up to snuff, hoping to re-enter the dating world with a vengeance! For me, the best reason I've come across is an athletic challenge.

Enter Joints in Motion, the Arthritis Society's fundraising project. Check out this link to the Italy Marathon in 2009.

http://www.arthritis.ca/local%20programs/bcyukon/JIM/destinations2009/Italy/default.asp?s=1

Having done the Vancouver 1/2 Marathon in 2006, I feel ready to pound the pavement once again, this time in an exotic location...beautiful, romantic Italy! Time to get training!

Stay tuned for regular updates about fundraising events, including our Gidget Goes Hawaiian pool party fundraiser at MBody Fitness & Wellness Spa, later on this summer...Ciao!

Shopping Tour - Trader Joe's in Bellingham, WA

2008-05-26T18:26:00.000-07:00

Today I'd like to introduce you to a fabulous grocery store in Bellingham, WA.

It's called Trader Joe's and they started out in California in the 50's as a small chain of convenience stores. Today, there are more than 280 stores in 23 states. The nearest store to Vancouver, BC is the one in Bellingham, WA, which opened one year ago.

You'll find unconventional and interesting products, as well as everyday basics. They have low prices every day. You'll recognize the staff by their Hawaiian shirts! They offer the best prices on fresh and organic foods (and I mean seriously amazing prices), and they are the home of 2 Buck Chuck (if you don't know what that means, never mind!)...People actually line up when a new store opens.

Go to http://www.traderjoes.com/index.html and see for yourself...

Anyways, I will be leading a convoy to Bellingham during the middle of the week in early June. I have 4 spaces in my car to share gas costs, and we can take as many cars as are willing to join the convoy.

Border wait times are lowest in the middle of the day, mid-week. It's still a crap-shoot these days, with the massive construction on the WA highways, as they prepare for our Olympics. But it's worth the adventure, and we'll be in good company.

Just be warned...once you've shopped for your groceries at Trader Joe's, you may never want to shop anywhere else again. For the record, I am willing to make this a weekly excursion, if there is enough interest. And, of course, once introduced, you may just want to make it a family tradition to go "into town" to do your own shopping on a regular basis!

Breaker, breaker, good buddy - let's put the hammer down - that's a big 10-4!

Or something like that!

Eating to Prepare for Race Day

2008-05-04T05:55:00.000-07:00

Almost 60,000 Vancouverites just completed the 10k Sun Run (yes, I was among them). Now, it's marathon season, a mere 26 miles of pavement. Today marks the 37th annual Bank of Montreal Vancouver Marathon!

I send my best wishes to the runners today! Particularly to Thomas Omwenga, last year's winner from Nairobi, Kenya. Thomas's running career earns him enough to support a large extended family back home, where a Canadian dollar goes a very long way. Due to last minute visa problems, some of his toughest competitors will not be joining us today.

Nutrition plays a critical role in athletic performance, but many active people do not eat a diet that helps them do their best on the pavement. Don't make the mistake of thinking that popping a pill (ie. taking your vitamins) instead of planning your meals, is good enough. There is no pill, potion or powder that can enhance your performance like the right foods and fluids.

To have enough energy for Race Day, you need to consume enough energy. Getting adequate calories is one of the keys to a performance-enhancing diet. With too few calories, you will feel tired and weak and be prone to injuries.

Nothwithstanding personal food allergies, you must include high quality components of each of the food groups, grains, fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and protein-rich foods.

Sugars and fats provide extra calories after the needs from the other food groups have been met. Again, only go for high quality components.

Then, after you are confident that you're making the best food and beverage choices, go take your vitamins. This will remove the final nutritional question mark from your plate, and give you some nutritional insurance.

For lots of information on long-distance running, I often go to http://www.copacabanarunners.net/ .