Nutrition - A Holistic Nutritionist's Perspective

When asked to write for "My Backyard’s Full," I was more than excited and thought what could I possibly add to this amazing project. As a holistic nutritionist and an advocate of eating seasonal and local, I wondered just how difficult this would be? Would the family of three be able to sustain this for a year? Are the nutritional needs of her family being met consuming only Ontario produce and produced foods?

As a nutritionist, I educate clients on the importance of eating locally and seasonally to keep us attuned to the earth; it’s elements and the cycles of nature. Seasonal eating provides the right type of fuel at the right time of year and our environment provides the best foods to support our health and keep us in balance. Our nutritional needs differ from season to season and nature provides the right nutrients at the right time of the year.

Spring is a time of rejuvenation, cleaning and healing. Green produce supplies our bodies with chlorophyll to help in the cleaning process. As we move into summer, an abundance of fruits and vegetables are prevalent as summer is a time of growth and activity. During the warm months our diet changes to lighter and fresher foods leaving behind heavier protein and fat foods. Hydrating and cooling foods are needed at this time of year and our bodies naturally crave this. Autumn enters and there is big shift in energy, climate and diet. This is the official harvest time in nature and our diet shifts to more cooked, richer protein and fat foods with fewer raw fruits and vegetables. As winter hits we crave richer, warming foods, to fuel our furnace to generate more energy to keep us warm. Root vegetables, squash, whole grains, and legumes are the mainstay of our diet during these cold months. When looking at each season and the food available during each season, it truly reflects our needs.

With that in mind, one question remains. Will the family of three meet their nutritional needs? The answer is yes. Eating locally and with the seasons can provide the necessary vitamins and minerals to sustain health, combined with whole grains, legumes, lean cuts of meat, dairy, nuts and seeds. Remembering that we are all unique and everybody’s needs are different. If you are introducing dietary changes, please consult a holistic nutritionist to determine what your body’s needs are.

Christine Nicholls
Registered Holistic Nutritionist
c: 647-966-8748

Christine@purelyu.ca

http://www.purelyu.ca/