2 minute read
Count Nutrients instead of Calories
Looking after our health is a bit like gardening. The quality of the soil and presence of nutrients will determine the quality of our plants. In the same way, our bodies can only be as healthy as the nutrients we feed it.
When I think of food, I tend to think of it in terms of its nutrient density (how much good stuff it contains) rather than in terms of its calories. So, instead of having a calorie/ weight-loss mindset, I like to have a food/nutrient-content mindset. Examples of nutrient-dense foods include nuts, fruit and vegetables. Foods that are not nutrient-dense are crisps, chocolate and highly processed foods (lots of calories but very low on the nutritional value scale). In other words, if I eat something, I like to make sure I’m getting the most bang for my buck. I want most things I eat to make a positive impact on my health. Notice I said ‘most things’; we all love the occasional treat!
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Our bodies respond so well to good feeding. The difference it can make to how we feel is truly amazing. Food affects our mood, energy levels, skin, hair, bones, immune system and our overall sense of wellbeing. A healthy, well balanced diet can help you manage and reduce your risk of developing many health/medical conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, arthritis, anaemia, gout and constipation. Having a vegetable garden is like growing your own vitamins. The flavour and nutrient content of spray-free veggies, picked and eaten straight away, is infinitely better than those that have been languishing on store shelves. Even a few pots on the windowsill can bump up the nutrient content of your diet. Gardening is a great way to teach children about health and get them outdoors, enjoying the fresh air and away from TV and computers.
Paula Southworth Nutritionist (BSC Human Nitrition & Sports Science
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