With summer upon us, there is no better time to improve our physical and mental health and a great place to start is by cleaning up the food and drinks that we consume.

Our bodies depend on a wide variety of minerals and nutrients to repair the damage that occurs throughout our daily lives.  It is vital that we give our bodies the best chance to achieve this by supplying it with the right nutrition.

What is the right Nutrition?

This can vary a little from person to person, but generally a diet consisting of a wide variety of vegetables and fruits along with a small amount of lean meat is the perfect start.

If in doubt “Eat real foods, not too much, mostly plants” is a simple approach to nutrition.

Ultimately we should be aiming to:

• Eat fruits and vegetables of all colours and aiming for them to be organic.
• Eat more greens.
• Eat more good fats, less bad fats.
• Drink more water.
• Eat less processed foods.
• Drink less alcohol. (Tough one during this time of year!).
• If eating meat, not too much, aim for organic/grass fed.

Beneficial Effect on the Body

Prolonged healthy nutrition can:

• Reduce the risk of some diseases including, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, osteoporosis and some cancers.
• Reduce high blood pressure.
• Lower high cholesterol.
• Improves your ability to fight and recovery from illness.
• Improves your ability to recovery from injury.
• Increases your energy and overall well being.

Supplements – What’s The Difference?

Probiotics

Probiotics are live microorganisms, which when administered in adequate amounts cause a great health benefit for the individual.

You can add probiotics to your diet through specific supplements containing freeze-dried bacteria or assist by eating fermented foods such as yoghurt, sauerkraut, kimchi and kefir.

Prebiotics

Prebiotics are a non-digestible food ingredient that beneficially affects the individual by selectively stimulating the growth and/or activity of one or a limited number of bacteria in the colon.

Foods containing prebiotics are raw garlic, artichoke, raw/cooked onion and bananas.

All of the above is greatly complemented with adequate intake of water, especially over the summer months.

I hope this information can assist you in making great nutritional choices this summer, leading to a healthier, happier life.