|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
[Published Articles]
Summer is coming and most people look forward to freedom from heavy boots and clothing. But after months of bundling up and staying indoors, a few of us may be unpleasantly surprised by what we see reflected in the mirror.
Body image is a pervasive concern in our society. How we view ourselves has a huge impact on our ability to enjoy life. The failure to lose desired weight (or gain it) can contribute to a deep-seated anguish and despair.
The quest for that “perfect body” has spawned many a fad diet and miracle exercise machine. However, weight control is an extremely complex issue requiring a multi-faceted solution. As simple as it may appear on TV to drop those pounds, you must be ready to commit to longterm lifestyle changes in order to stay at your optimum level.
Losing weight is a challenge for a great number of people. Fad diets can take you on a roller coaster ride, with unpredictable results. Instead of simply cutting fat and counting calories, you must take an active role in your overall health. Nutritious foods are essential – whole foods such as greens, nuts and whole grains – provide vital nutrients and fibre. Fish and vegetable proteins will supply some of the basic building blocks your body needs to function optimally. And even though your goal may be to lose weight, it does NOT require elimination of all fats from your diet! Believe it or not, there are certain types of fat that your body needs but does not produce. Therefore, ingesting some of these essential fatty acids is crucial. Omega-3 and Omega-6 (flax oil, fish oils, and borage are some of the more commonly known names) are beneficial, while saturated fats and fried foods are undesirable. An overhaul of your digestive system can improve its functioning – for proper nutrient absorption, and elimination of waste products or toxic substances. In addition , your body may be sensitive to certain foods that you eat regularly. Bloating, heartburn, and constipation are sure signs of a sluggish digestive system and potential food sensitivities. You may consider the value of specific foods in your diet, and eliminate those that promote sensitivities and inflammation – a “blood type diet” may be a good place to start.
Are you exercising, yet still not getting anywhere? Perhaps there’s an underlying thyroid condition. The thyroid controls your metabolism, the burning of energy in your body. If it is functioning below par, your efforts at weight control will likely become mixed with frustration. Zinc, selenium, and iodine sources are essential for the proper production of thyroid hormones. Intimately linked with thyroid function are the adrenal glands – these rest on your kidneys and keep your body performing during periods of stress. Think about stress management – if you are under constant pressure, your adrenal glands will be affected, leaving you tired and unable to cope. Herbs such as licorice root, borage, as well as glandular support can help to balance out adrenal function.
Do you experience uncontrollable cravings for sweets and carbohydrates? You may need to start balancing your blood sugar. If glucose levels are out of whack, your body may start to produce more fat as it tries to deal with the lofty sugar load. Decreasing your intake of refined carbohydrates (sweets, pastas, breads) will help to reduce the load on an already over-stressed system. Chromium and several herbs will assist in the body’s processing of sugars, and L-carnitine can facilitate the burning of fat. And please, don’t forget to exercise. Regular movement will keep you toned and in shape while using the energy that food brings into your system. Specific vitamins and minerals, herbal medicines, hydrotherapy, homeopathy and acupuncture support the proper functioning of all these organ systems. The mind also plays a crucial role, as anxieties and emotions may manifest physically and can act as roadblocks to your progress. Relaxation, adequate sleep, meditation, yoga, massage, deep breathing – these are all adjunctive therapies to focus on the spiritual side of weight loss. Weight control is complex and involves numerous factors. A licensed Naturopathic Doctor can guide you in achieving your goals.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Your gateway to good health.
|
|
|