We all know that good nutrition is crucial to our body's good health and wellbeing. Unfortunately we are not always in a position to get all the essential nutrients and antioxidants from our daily meals.  Modern farming methods are, simply put, based on quantity not quality; distribution practices means food can be months old before it gets to your table; and, by living in an urban environment, we are exposed daily to fine particulate matter: who can forget the air quality issues with the Beijing Olympics! (see story aired on the ABC's "Catalyst").

Organic food does go along way to helping get better nutrition from our foods, however, it isn't the whole solution, as Australia is notorious for its poor soil quality: poor soil means lower quality produce.  For more information on or retailers of organics visit Organic Choice you can also buy online.

Given the above, I support the use of quality supplements to satisfy nutritional deficencies, which will in turn decrease the damage caused by free radicals in your body, boost your defences against diseases, aid rehabilitation and help you stay young longer.  Note: if you are on any medications please discuss supplementation with your GP or naturopath.

Additionally, I highly recommend the use of good-quality protein supplements.  Given we need 1-2gr of pure protein per kilo of body weight per day, most of us don't get nearly enough.  Eg. a 70kg person needs on average 100gr of pure protein.  Note: Pure protein is not food weight eg 100gr of meat will give you approximately 20gr of protein, 1 egg gives 5g.  The Protein Bakery supplies a yummy range of cookies to help top you up, or for a savoury snack, try 100% Australian Roasted Chickpeas!

Food Review: Whilst not a qualified Nutritionist, as a Sports Therapist I have a broad knowledge of Sports Nutrition and am happy to help with a basic review of your diet and give pointers to improving energy levels, performance and recovery rates. This review is offered free to regular clients and is not a stand-alone service.  Alternatively, Nada (KwC's Kinesiologist) offers a Nutrition Overview session with a written report on your body's present needs and Tania, our Naturopath & Nutritionist can prescribe tonics and diet plans.

You may like to read the "Sports Nutrition Guidelines" in the Better Body Bits part of this website.  Also The Australian Institute of Sport has a range of fantastic fact sheets on nutrition for different sports.

If you would like to know more or have a question, please contact Joanne.