“Plant Based Nutrition for Health, Beauty & Prevention” by Jodie Burke, Plant Based Nutrition Consultant

We are living in an exciting time–one in which there is an abundance of health and wellness information available to us, helping us take back control of our health to some degree.  Let’s face it, though, it can be overwhelming at times–which philosophies best suit your individual needs? There are no two bodies that are exactly the same, so it is important to fully research and explore all of the options out there and then decide which one(s) could be right for you.  If you have ever had an interest in exploring a plant-based diet, then Jodie Burke can shed some light on the subject for you. The following is information she provided in her Share the Health talk at Our Place Studio.

We are living in a world of fast food, processed food and chemical laden foods. These foods are causing a decline in our health which is leading us down the road to disease. Some of the diseases  that have a strong nutrition linkage include:
  • Heart Disease
  • Cancer
  • Lower Respiratory diseases
  • Stroke
  • Alzheimer’s disease
  • Diabetes
  • Nephritis syndromes

You can prevent and reverse disease with nutrition. When I say nutrition, I am talking about FOOD!  And more specifically a whole food, plant based lifestyle! 

Many people wait until disease has become a problem before deciding to change their lifestyle. Why wait for disease to happen? You can take control of your health and reduce or avoid trips to the doctor by making changes to your diet before disease occurs and reap the benefits of higher energy levels, younger looking skin, and weight loss.

Research has shown that individuals whose diets are comprised animal proteins have a higher risk of developing the diseases listed above. The reduction and even elimination of animal products has been shown to reduce the above listed diseases.

What is a Whole Food Plant Based Lifestyle?

It is exactly as it sounds–lots of plant foods, no processed foods (including oils), whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds.

Why omit oils, aren’t they healthy?

Oils are processed foods full of fats, especially saturated fats. Why cover your food in olive oil when you can eat the olive? If you need Omega 3’s there are plenty of whole food options including chia seeds, flax seeds, hemp seeds, etc. Whole foods are absorbed by the body much better and faster than a processed version of the food. Part of adopting a plant based diet includes learning how to make these substitutions. It’s fun!

Is a Plant Based Lifestyle hard to adapt to?  

It is not hard at all but it can depend on the state of your current food diet. If your body is used to high amounts of sugar, oil and salt you will need to find substitutions to help you overcome these cravings.  A plant based lifestyle can be even more flavorful than a processed food diet and allows for tons of creative substitutions, so you don’t have to worry about ever feeling deprived.

How can I help you?

As a Plant Based Nutrition Consultant I can help you and your family with meal planning, recipes, clean out your pantry and refrigerator, teach you how to shop, help overcome food addictions and dealing with food allergies.
You can contact Jodie to schedule an appointment by emailing her at plantbasedchick@gmail.com.