Newsletter 

FOOD FOR SUSTENANCE – FOOD FOR PLEASURE

It seems everyone has an opinion on what we should eat and what we shouldn’t eat. Across all the media we are told to reduce fat intake and to increase fibre, avoid takeaways cooked in fat, eat 5 (plus) fresh fruit and vegetables a day, and so it goes on!
And of course, all this in the face of television, radio, print and bill board messages bombarding us every day urging us to buy these biscuits, chocolates, sweets, burgers and fries and alcohol.

No wonder today’s children are confused about what constitutes healthy eating – it’s hard enough for adults!

And while we tend to become very clinical about food, we do need to remember that good food is one of life’s pleasures, and deservedly so!

There are two primary considerations with regard to what you eat that should preface anything else when thinking about your food intake.
BALANCE & MODERATION. Think about it – you can’t live on just protein alone (which is essential for the body to manufacture hormones, antibodies, enzymes and new body tissue). You need unrefined carbohydrates for energy and good fats (essential fatty acids i.e. Omega 3 & 6) for warmth, brain function, reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels and aid in the prevention of arthritis, plus a whole host of other vital micronutrients (vitamins and minerals). All of these have a specific task to perform in maintaining this wonderful machine we know as our body.

And because there is some truth in that saying that ‘we are what we eat’, moderation of food intake means smaller portions for some of us, no bingeing and not having ice-cream every night, as an example. It doesn’t mean exclusion – just not over- eating, either in volume or a particular type of food!

There is nothing wrong with the big fry-up for breakfast – or that Chocolate Gateaux – on occasion. Balanced food intake is a necessity but it should be enjoyed.

With food some simple principles are important. Fresh is best! Variety is important and don’t eat on the run. Sit down and enjoy your meals. Talk to family or friends while you are eating and don’t miss out on breakfast.

So remember, aim for a balanced diet and most foods are okay in moderation. The simplistic maxim to remember is ‘Energy in -must equal energy out” otherwise that excess energy will be converted into body fat and you will create another imbalance. Don’t be afraid to talk to your doctor about your nutrient intake and energy output or you can discuss your nutrition with a registered Dietitian or Nutritionist. It is never too late to make a lifestyle change and adopt improved eating habits for better health.

Jan Edmonds (Nutritionist)

(The author is principal of the Nutrition Therapy Clinic, a 6-day a week practice of NZ Registered Dietitians and Nutritionists based in Albany. Ph. 09 4773780)

The team of dietitians at Nutrition Therapy Clinic, offer personalised dietary advice and ongoing support on all nutritional areas including weight loss, sports nutrition, diabetes, gastrointestinal/bowel problems, vegetarianism, elevated cholesterol and paediatric nutrition. We have dietitians and nutritionists available for appointments 6 days a week and evenings.