Nutrition: Let’s Agree On 95%

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So what do I mean let’s agree on 95% when it comes to nutrition?

Well, we had a team meeting recently and had some fabulous discussions about nutrition and I thought I would share that information with all of you…and tell you what we decided.

We have some trainers that are very strict vegan, some commit to different levels of vegetarianism, some are meat eaters, some are dairy eaters, some eat starchy carbs and others avoid carbs and gluten. Our team’s approach to nutrition is all over the map. I can see how that might be confusing in terms of deciding which approach to nutrition might work for YOU!

After our discussions, here is what we all agreed on:

The Critical Importance of a Nutrition Plan that is Primarily Fruit and Vegetables.

No one can argue that a predominantly plant-based diet is definitely the way to go. If you increase your intake of fruits and vegetables, you will improve your health.

The importance of Proper Hydration for Cells, Tissues and Organs to Function Effectively.

We all agreed that the average American would benefit tremendously by increasing water intake.

Eating as Organically and Local as Possible.

It is obvious that the quality of food is greater if you eat food that is grown right here in our area versus being shipped across continents over weeks and months in unpredictable conditions.  We also agree that food that is as pure as possible is healthier than food exposed to chemicals, anti-bodies, and hormones. If you choose to eat animal products, it’s obvious that it’s better to eat meat/dairy from animals that have been fed naturally and allowed to roam vs being caged in inhumane conditions

Minimizing Processed Foods

Clearly food that is not as processed is going to be healthier.  If you can’t read any of the ingredients that should cause a red flag.

Portion control

Our supersize society is causing major havoc on our health. Sometimes you don’t need to change what you’re eating as much as how much you are eating.

The Importance of Planning and Meal Timing

We agree than when you are not prepared and go extended periods of time without eating nutrition foods, you will make poor choices.  So a healthy nutrition plan will involve an organized approach to assure you create a lifestyle that promotes success.

Individual Factors

We agree that not one nutrition plan will work for every person.

There is a lot we agree on. But when it comes to meat, dairy and starchy carbs, our opinions differ. So how do we proceed? We have to focus on the 95% of what we agree on and allow clients to make personal choices about the other items.  So our language may be “If you choose to consume meat, here are things to consider to be as healthy as possible” or “If you choose to eat dairy, consider these tips to maximize your health”.

There was an article in the National Strength & Conditioning Association Journal recently that perfectly summarizes our conversations.  Please read it when you get a chance. It is insightful and provides a lot of wisdom in regards to nutrition.

Whichever approach you choose, my hopes are that it brings you optimal health and vitality!

Sherri McMillan, M.Sc. has been inspiring the world to adopt a fitness lifestyle for over 25 years and has received numerous industry awards including International Personal Trainer and Fitness Presenter of the Year. She is the author of five books including “Go For Fit – the Winning Way to Fat Loss” and “Fit over Forty” and is the featured presenter in various fitness DVDs.  She is the owner of Northwest Personal Training in downtown Vancouver and can be seen running, hiking or cycling with her two children, Brianna and Jackson.  She can be reached at www.nwPersonalTraining.com or www.ShapeupwithSherri.com

Note:  As an avid Columbian reader, you can redeem a 2 week pass at her world-class training studio to help get you started.  Contact 360.574.7292 for more details.