NEWS BITES
have your tried our free healthy eating audit?
Over the years you get a good feel for where people are at, by just asking a few simple questions - what they eat? how they exercise? and everything in between.
It’s something we have always done - just out of interest really, but especially when we are travelling (not as much these days!) - listening and learning about foods and cooking styles across different cultures. Our Greek Mum says ‘the Greeks invented everything!’…yes Mum, just like all the other wonderful cultures across our world. And in Australia we are very lucky as we have all foods on our doorstep…plus fresh everything!
It’s always been a passion of ours to showcase healthy ‘back to basics’ food as longer term medicine - getting our bodies back to a more alkaline state (vs the modern eating ‘acidic diet’ powered by lots of false information, fast-everything and lazy-convenience). Sure it can be a very topical one, especially with someone that is really struggling or not in a good fit/healthy state, and sure there is always the traditional vs non-traditional medical discussions to be had. But centuries of fresh raw ingredients in some diets driving longevity don’t lie!…the evidence is walking around you.
Our Mum is living proof too - she’s 86 years wise and takes no pills and is very switched on and healthy. Sure, a little grumpy some days when the weather turns - but fundamentally a strong cookie!
Whatever your health and fitness state, we are here to just help you be a little bit better each day. That’s all. Simple, open, direct, but caring, guidance that can change lives…Love + Food = Better Life.
Food (and drink) is medicine…the right food (and drink).
The wrong food will slowly kill you over time - sounds a bit harsh, but it's a fact - unless you’re the Rolling Stones! But it’s funny you know, everything tends to operate on a lifecycle and even the roughest and toughest characters go through a health crisis at some point and come out the other side to a more healthy balanced way (a more alkaline state).
So to help kick off the conversation - if you are ready to have it (some are not ready…yet) - or just want to test the waters of where you are at, we have put together a simple ‘Healthy Eating Audit’ or mini-survey to capture your current state and offer some immediate suggestions for FREE. For those who want to continue our support, then we do have our ongoing Nutrition Coaching, Fitness Coaching, and our new ‘Bundles Of Joy’ subscription food delivery program, tailored to what you need (not always exactly what you want!…a bit like a ‘5 star restaurant delivered to your door, but without all the extended frills and butter (!), with a menu that has just been to the gym!’…fresh, healthy but full of flavour like no other.
Simply click on the link below. It takes about 5-10 minutes depending on how in-depth you want to go.
We read each one - just the two sisters - and treat your information confidentially to help you.
Have a go! The first step is the hardest.
Love + Food = Angelika + Verena
P.S. we have some tip reminders below of all the benefits of eating a little healthier each day and moving a bit more each day…small steps add up to a lot!
Eating a healthy diet has numerous benefits for your overall health and well-being.
A lot of people don’t eat as healthy, because of these type of myth statements - that we love busting!
MYTH 1 - “healthier food doesn’t taste as good!”
WRONG! we only make full of flavour and people start raving about how they can’t believe how good it tastes and be so healthy.
MYTH 2 - “healthier food takes longer to make!”
WRONG! let’s time each other? we can make a healthier meal in minutes, faster than anything you make…it’s the fresh ingredients in your fridge and layering to put together.
MYTH 2 - “healthier food is harder to make!”
WRONG! in most cases it’s actually easier, once you have the ingredients and use our ‘layering principles’.
MYTH 3 - “it’s harder to shop for healthier food!”
WRONG! just go to the outside aisles in the supermarket first (not the middle) and you will find lots of nourishment.
MYTH 4 - “healthier food costs more!”
WRONG! if you know what you are buying, in fact many ingredients are a lot cheaper. Certified Organic is great and we love it, but that’s not everything.
MYTH 5 - “healthier food doesn’t last as long!”
WRONG! yes that’s actually a good thing!, because you are not eating all the preservatives in it…fridge or freezer can easily keep left overs. Test this - if you don’t eat a burger within 15 minutes it doesn’t look that great. Ok, sure pizza the next day can taste good as a naughty treat!
MYTH 6 - “my kids won’t eat it!”
WRONG! Invite us to lunch or dinner…we have never (as in never) met a today or teenage that we can’t get onto our food. We run the food at leading daycare centres and the teachers are amazed at what we can do with kids and getting them to try and eat new things…it always comes down to 3 things…1) focused effort, 2) make it playful, 3) negotiation!
Being a kid these days is tough - but we believe that many of todays kids challenges can be improved by working on 1) diet, 2) movement and 3) technology…if as parents we can do better in these 3 areas our kids will get a taste of the ‘back to basics’ approach to life that has many benefits.
Some of the key benefits of eating healthy - apart from feeling better - include:
Improved Physical Health: A healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
Weight Management: Eating a balanced diet can help you maintain a healthy weight or lose excess weight, which is important for overall health and reducing the risk of obesity-related diseases.
Better Digestive Health: A diet high in fiber from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can improve digestion and reduce the risk of constipation, bloating, and other digestive issues.
Stronger Immune System: A diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants can help strengthen your immune system, making you less susceptible to infections and illnesses.
Improved Mental Health: Eating a healthy diet can positively impact your mood and mental health. Nutrient-rich foods can help regulate neurotransmitters in the brain, improving mood and reducing the risk of depression and anxiety.
Increased Energy Levels: A balanced diet provides the nutrients your body needs for energy production. Eating regular, balanced meals can help maintain steady energy levels throughout the day.
Better Skin Health: A diet high in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats can help improve skin health, reducing the risk of acne, eczema, and other skin conditions.
Improved Sleep: Eating a healthy diet and maintaining a regular eating schedule can help improve sleep quality and duration, leading to better overall health and well-being.
Longer Lifespan: Studies have shown that a healthy diet is associated with a lower risk of premature death, meaning that eating well can help you live a longer, healthier life.
Improved Quality of Life: Overall, eating a healthy diet can improve your quality of life by reducing the risk of chronic diseases, improving mood and mental health, and increasing energy levels, among other benefits.
The Benefits Of Gluten-Free Eating
Those that only can gluten free - like myself - will know the challenges finding the right food, especially when you are out to dinner.
Gluten-free eating has gained popularity in recent years, and while it's essential for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, the benefits for the general population are less clear.
BENEFITS OF GLUTEN-FREE EATING FOR EVERY ONE
Here are some potential benefits of gluten-free eating that may apply to everyone:
1. Improved Digestive Health:
Some people find that reducing or eliminating gluten can help with digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea, even if they don't have celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
2. Increased Energy Levels:
For individuals with undiagnosed gluten sensitivity, eliminating gluten from their diet may lead to improved energy levels and overall well-being.
3. Potential Weight Loss:
Switching to a gluten-free diet may lead to weight loss for some people, especially if it involves cutting out processed foods high in gluten and replacing them with whole, nutrient-dense foods.
4. Better Nutrient Absorption:
In individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, eliminating gluten can improve nutrient absorption, as damage to the intestines caused by gluten can hinder the absorption of essential nutrients.
5. Reduced Inflammation:
Some research suggests that gluten may contribute to inflammation in the body, so eliminating it from the diet could help reduce inflammation for some individuals.
6. Improved Mental Clarity:
Some people report improved mental clarity and focus when following a gluten-free diet, although more research is needed to confirm this effect.
It's important to note that a gluten-free diet can be restrictive and may lead to nutrient deficiencies if not followed carefully. If you're considering going gluten-free, especially if you don't have celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, it's a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist to ensure you're meeting your nutritional needs.
Several groups of people may choose to eat gluten-free for various reasons:
1. Celiac Disease:
People with celiac disease must avoid gluten because it triggers an immune response that damages the lining of the small intestine.
2. Non-Celiac
Gluten Sensitivity: Some individuals experience symptoms similar to those of celiac disease when they consume gluten but do not test positive for celiac disease or wheat allergy. They may choose to avoid gluten to alleviate these symptoms.
3. Wheat Allergy:
People with a wheat allergy must avoid wheat, which contains gluten, to prevent allergic reactions.
4. Autoimmune Disorders:
Some autoimmune disorders, such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis and rheumatoid arthritis, are thought to be influenced by gluten consumption. Some individuals with these conditions may find symptom relief by following a gluten-free diet.
5. Autism Spectrum Disorder:
Some caregivers of individuals with autism believe that a gluten-free diet can improve symptoms, although scientific evidence is limited and mixed.
6. Weight Loss and General Health:
Some individuals without a specific medical condition choose to follow a gluten-free diet for weight loss or general health reasons. However, there is limited evidence to support the effectiveness of this approach for these purposes.
It's important to note that following a gluten-free diet can be challenging, as gluten is found in many common foods. People considering a gluten-free diet should consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist to ensure they are meeting their nutritional needs.
Some athletes choose to eat a gluten-free diet for various reasons, but it's not a universal practice among athletes.
Here are some reasons why athletes might choose to go gluten-free:
1. Potential Performance Benefits:
Some athletes believe that eliminating gluten from their diet can reduce inflammation, improve digestion, and enhance overall performance. However, scientific evidence supporting these claims is limited.
2. Digestive Comfort:
Gluten can be difficult to digest for some people, leading to gastrointestinal issues. Athletes may choose to go gluten-free to avoid these digestive problems.
3. Management of Autoimmune Conditions:
Athletes with autoimmune conditions that are influenced by gluten consumption, such as celiac disease or Hashimoto's thyroiditis, may choose to follow a gluten-free diet to manage their condition and reduce symptoms.
4. Personal Preference:
Like the general population, some athletes may choose to eat gluten-free as a personal preference or as part of a broader dietary approach, such as a paleo or Whole30 diet.
It's important for athletes considering a gluten-free diet to ensure they are still meeting their nutritional needs for training, performance, and recovery. Working with a sports dietitian or healthcare professional can help ensure that athletes are fueling their bodies appropriately while following a gluten-free diet.