Gut Healthy

  November - Movember 2024 Newsletter

Did you know that Vitamin D isn’t just a vitamin? It acts like a hormone in the body and is essential for many health processes. What is Vitamin D? A fat-soluble vitamin that our bodies produce when exposed to sunlight. It’s essential for bone health, immune support, muscle function, brain cell activity, and more. It helps our bodies absorb calcium and phosphorus, keeping our bones strong and reducing the risk of osteoporosis. Why is it Important? Adequate levels are linked to improved immune function, mood balance, and even reduced inflammation. It’s also shown to play a role in reducing the risk of some chronic diseases and autoimmune conditions. Factors That Can Reduce Vitamin D Production include: Limited Sun Exposure: Living in northern climates or spending a lot of time indoors. Time of Year: In Canada, the sun isn’t strong enough from October to April to produce sufficient vitamin D. Age: As we age, our skin becomes less efficient at synthesizing vitamin D. Skin Tone: People ...

Atomic Habits by James Clear is an insightful and practical guide to understanding and improving our daily habits. Clear’s approach combines research from psychology and behavioural science to offer a clear, actionable framework for creating positive, lasting changes in our lives. The book introduces the concept of "atomic habits"—tiny adjustments in behaviour that lead to remarkable, long-term results. Clear argues that focusing on small, 1% improvements can compound into transformative outcomes. He uses the metaphor of “compound interest” to explain how these minor habits can have a significant impact over time. This perspective is both refreshing and empowering, making the process of habit change feel manageable and within reach. Clear breaks down his system into four laws of behaviour change: Make it obvious, make it attractive, make it easy, and make it satisfying. These four principles serve as a roadmap, guiding readers through each step of habit formation or disrupti...

  Movember is here, a month dedicated to raising awareness about men’s health, from mental well-being to physical fitness. One powerful way to support health as a man ages is through nutrition. Small changes in what we eat can make a huge difference in reducing the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and even some cancers. Here are a few nutrition tips to fuel health this Movember: Fuel Up on Fibre 🌾 High-fibre foods like oats, beans, and vegetables are great for digestion and heart health. Fibre-rich foods also help maintain steady blood sugar levels, which is key for preventing diabetes and supporting gut health. Prioritize Lean Protein Especially Plant Protein 🥩 Protein helps maintain muscle mass as we age. Opt for lean sources like legumes, tofu, poultry, or fish. Fish rich in omega-3s, like salmon, is especially beneficial for heart health. Focus on Healthy Fats 🥑 Incorporate healthy fats from sources like olive oil, avocado, nuts and seeds. These fats ...