healthy food.png — Optimal Living with Nutrition

By Corry Matthews, M.S.

Optimal Living with Nutrition By: Corry Matthews, M.S.

OMG – how can anyone possibly keep up with the different types of nutrition programs these days? Gluten-Free. Paleo. Keto. Low Carb. Raw. Whole30. The list goes on and on. And, the problem is, when your best friend has really great success with a particular diet, but you don’t have the same results, cue massive frustration.

In my 20 years as a nutritionist, I have seen the fads all come and go. And I’ve had numerous clients get tested. What are they testing? Their hormones. Hormones are the keys to unlocking sustained weight loss and to feeling good and we all have different levels! I wish that being told by your doctor that you are normal would fix things, but it doesn’t. The key is living optimal and the best part of living in Southern California – we have easy access to all these foods.

Here are the top 3 foods that all of the fad diets in one way or another target, and the reason why – they can have significant impact on your hormone levels.

Remove these

Gluten: Yep, all the breads, pastas and cereals. Grains aren’t what they used to be 20+ years ago. Today, they are mass produced and can be a major source of weight loss resistance, even in those without sensitivities to gluten. What do the majority of fad diets remove – carbohydrates, those with gluten. Gluten reduction has shown improvements not only in thyroid function but also improves gut, pancreas, overall inflammation and brain function.

Sugar - Science has shown that both sugar and the substitutes spike your insulin and ultimately cause the body to store excess fat. When this process goes on for too long you become insulin resistant which can lead to pre-diabetes and diabetes. Additionally, increased insulin causes you to be what I like to call hormonally hungry. You know that feeling when you just want to eat something but aren’t really hungry.

Change or Add this:

Organic Pastured Protein! Protein helps us feel fuller longer. While many fear that eating protein will cause them to grow big muscles over-night this simply does not happen. However, the key isn’t just to add protein, but to add the right kind of protein. Animal protein, that is pasture raised or lives in the ocean is full of additional nutrients, less antibiotics and traditionally more humanely treated. So enjoy your meat again.

In Southern California we’re a hotbed for great grain alternatives, fresh sauces / spices / herbs and amazing proteins. Check out your local non chain groceries for the best choices. And stay tuned for recipes and additional articles coming your way with ingredients all locally sourced.