Aspartame: Insights from a Specialist Dietitian
Aspartame what is all the fuss about? As a dietitian with over two and a half decades of experience, I have always prioritized the well-being of my clients and promoted a balanced, healthy diet for each individuals needs, health, likes and dislikes etc. Throughout my career, I have encountered numerous questions about artificial sweeteners, particularly aspartame. In this blog, I would like to share my perspective on aspartame and explain why I prefer to steer clear of artificial sweeteners. What is Aspartame? Aspartame is an artificial sweetener that has been widely used as a sugar substitute in various food and beverage products. It is found in many sugar-free or “diet” options, such as soft drinks, chewing gum, and desserts. Aspartame is a synthetic substance that combines two ingredients: 1. Aspartic acid. This is a nonessential amino acid that occurs naturally in the human body and in food. Amino acids are the building blocks of protein in the body. The body uses aspartic acid to create hormones and to support normal function of the nervous system. Dietary sources include meat, fish, eggs, soybeans, and peanuts. 2. Phenylalanine. This is an essential amino acid that’s naturally present in most protein sources, but the body doesn’t produce it naturally. Humans have to get it from food. The body uses it to make proteins, brain chemicals, and hormones. Sources include lean meats, dairy products, nuts, and seeds. Combining these two ingredients creates a product that is about 200 times as sweet as regular sugar. A small amount can make food taste very sweet. It also provides very few calories. While aspartame is approved for use by regulatory authorities in many countries, its safety and health effects have been a topic of debate and scrutiny. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recently issued a new guideline regarding non-sugar sweeteners (NSS). According to this guideline, the use of NSS is not recommended for weight management or as a means to lower the risk of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). Based on a thorough review of the available evidence, it has been found that (NSS) do not offer any long-term benefits when it comes to reducing body fat in both adults and children. The review’s findings indicate that prolonged use of NSS may have unintended consequences, including a higher likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and increased mortality rates among adults. Replacing free sugars with non-sugar sweeteners (NSS) may not be effective in achieving long-term weight control. According to Francesco Branca, WHO Director for Nutrition and Food Safety, it is important for individuals to explore alternative methods of reducing their consumption of free sugars. This can include opting for food options that naturally contain sugars, such as fruits, or choosing unsweetened food and beverages. Non-nutritive sweeteners (NSS) are not considered necessary for a balanced diet and do not contribute any significant nutritional value. It is recommended that individuals reduce their overall intake of sweeteners from an early age in order to enhance their overall health and well-being. (WHO 2023) Why I suggest avoidance of Aspartame and others Conclusion: After practicing as a dietitian for 26 years, I have witnessed time and time again patents coming to me with the highest intakes of artificial sweeteners struggling the most with their diet, weight, physical and mental health. Once they start to follow one of my programmes these problems are quickly resolved. (if interested do check out my google and facebook reviews) I am glad I have not wavered when others have challenged me and I have stood by my decision to not recommend artificial sweeteners, including aspartame. While aspartame may be deemed safe for consumption within approved limits, why risk it. We need more ‘high’-quality research to further assess these relationships. I will continue to educate people to prioritize a whole-food, nutrient-dense approach to healthy eating. By choosing natural alternatives and educating clients about the importance of mindful eating and moderation, I believe we can foster a healthier relationship with food that supports long-term well-being. So, what to do next or for anything else.. If you are needing help with your diet and health or anything else… we can assist you with this. Maybe you wish to change your eating habits, stop tracking or need help optimising the foods you eat to assist your mental health or your gut symptoms and are not sure what programme to select, please do contact us. We would love to help you or your family and friends with any nutrition-related queries big or small. If you want to book your programme TODAY we would love to help you. You can book a 121 Dietitian Programme today by clicking on the link below If you have enjoyed this blog we would love you to share this with your family and friends on your social media channels. Do visit our YouTube Channel for more on keeping your health optimal. If you are interested in how I overcame my Thyroid Autoimmune Condition do check out the About section below Before you go please check out our 121 Dietitian Shop created specifically for optimising your health. Gillian x
Men’s Health: Achieving Well-being Through Diet and Mental Health
Men’s Health Week 12th June – 18th June 23 I am keen to raise awareness about men’s health, particularly in relation to diet and mental well-being as the number of women reaching out far out weigh men – not ideal. “One man in five dies before the age of 65. TOGETHER we can change that” Mens Health Forum 2023 In this blog post, we will explore the important role that diet plays in men’s health, the impact of diet on mental health, and ways to improve overall well-being. Additionally, we will discuss the significance of Men’s Health Week, which takes place from 12th to 18th June 2023. Understanding Men’s Health Men’s health is a topic that often goes overlooked. However, it is crucial to address men’s unique health concerns and promote well-being. Every day in my practice, I treat men in their 20s and up facing the ramifications of high blood pressure, abnormal lipids, gout, obesity, cardiac arrest and strokes. Fortunately, these ailments are manageable when caught on time; unfortunately, if not treated correctly they might have lifelong repercussions for the patient and their families. Men are more prone to certain conditions such as cardiovascular disease, prostate cancer, and mental health issues. By focusing on preventive measures, including a healthy diet and mental health support, we can improve the overall health outcomes for men. The Role of Diet in Men’s Health A well-balanced diet is essential for maintaining good health at any age. For men, specific nutrients play a vital role in supporting various bodily functions and promoting longevity. Including foods rich in lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables can provide essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These nutrients contribute to optimal physical health, help maintain a healthy weight, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. At 121 Dietitian Our programmes especially the Taster Plus Programme or the Weight Loss for Life are extremely popular in assisting those men wishing to address or prevent diet and health related concerns. Impact of Diet on Mental Health It’s not just physical health that can benefit from a healthy diet; mental well-being is also influenced by what we eat especially important when feeding your gut Microbiome. Research suggests that certain nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, and antioxidants, have a positive impact on brain health and can help reduce the risk of developing mental health conditions. Incorporating foods such as fatty fish, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and dark leafy greens into the diet can support cognitive function and promote emotional well-being. What however if everytime you try to eat healthy to lose weight you trigger of gut symptoms like pain, bloating, wind, cramps, gurgling, diarrhoea, constipation?? Again a common and and most often a simple fix. Our Gut Health and Weight Loss Programme has been an amazing success fixing two major problems while saving you money! Men’s Health Week 12-18 June 2023 Men’s Health Week is an annual event dedicated to raising awareness about men’s health issues and encouraging men to prioritize their well-being. This week provides an excellent opportunity to highlight the importance of preventive measures, regular health screenings, and healthy lifestyle choices. By participating in Men’s Health Week, we can collectively work towards better health outcomes for men. Tips for Improving Men’s Health Through Diet Improving men’s health through diet requires adopting a balanced and sustainable approach. Here are some practical tips to help men make healthier choices: Incorporating Exercise and Lifestyle Changes A well-rounded approach to men’s health includes not only a healthy diet but also regular physical activity and positive lifestyle changes. Engaging in exercises that combine cardiovascular activity, strength training, and flexibility can help maintain a healthy weight, improve cardiovascular health, and boost mood. Additionally, getting enough sleep, managing stress levels, and maintaining social connections are vital components of a healthy lifestyle. Seeking Professional Help While adopting a healthy diet and making lifestyle changes are crucial, it’s essential for men to seek professional help when needed. Dietitians can provide personalized guidance based on individual health concerns. Their expertise can help address specific dietary needs, manage mental health challenges, and provide support on the journey to improved well-being. Addressing Mental Health Challenges Men’s mental health is a significant aspect of overall well-being. It’s important to recognize and address mental health challenges such as stress, anxiety, and depression. Seeking professional help, engaging in stress management techniques like meditation and exercise, and building a support network of friends and family are effective strategies for managing mental health. Remember, it’s okay to reach out and ask for help when needed. Breaking the Stigma There is still a stigma surrounding men’s health, particularly when it comes to discussing emotions and seeking support. It’s essential to challenge these stereotypes and encourage open conversations about men’s health concerns. By creating safe spaces for dialogue and providing resources, we can empower men to prioritize their health and well-being without fear or judgment. Conclusion Men’s health is a multifaceted subject that encompasses physical, mental, and emotional well-being. By paying attention to diet, mental health, and overall lifestyle choices, men can take proactive steps towards a healthier and more fulfilling life. As we approach Men’s Health Week from 12th to 18th June 2023, let us come together to raise awareness, challenge stereotypes, and support men in their journey towards improved health and happiness. FAQs So, what to do next or for anything else.. If you are needing help with your diet and health or anything else… we can assist you with this. Maybe you wish to change your eating habits, stop tracking or need help optimising the foods you eat to assist your mental health or your gut symptoms and are not sure what programme to select, please do contact us. We would love to help you or your family and friends with any nutrition-related queries big or small. If you want to book your programme TODAY we would love to help you. You can book a 121 Dietitian Programme today by clicking on the link
The Negative Impact of Ultra-Processed Foods on Your Health
Ultra-processed foods and what you need to know. In today’s fast-paced world, convenience often takes precedence over nutrition and that happens to us all. Unfortunaltey ultra-processed foods have become a staple in many people’s diets, offering quick and easy solutions for busy lifestyles. These foods can have detrimental effects on our health and well-being. As a dietitian with 26 years of experience, I have witnessed the growing consumption of ultra-processed foods and its impact on individuals. In this blog, we will explore the negatives of ultra-processed foods and understand why they should be minimized in our diets. Ultra-Processed foods – what are they? The NOVA food classification system, developed by researchers from University of São Paulo in Brazil, is where the phrase ‘ultra-processed foods’ originates from. The food products are classified into four groups depending on the extent of processing they have undergone during their manufacturing: Unprocessed or minimally processed foods are those that have undergone minimal or no alteration and contain no added ingredients. This includes fruits, vegetables, milk, fish, pulses, eggs, nuts and seeds in their natural state. 2. Processed ingredients Processed ingredients are used to enhance the flavour of certain foods, such as salt, sugar and oils. These ingredients are usually not consumed by themselves, but rather combined with other foods for added flavour. 3. Processed foods Processed foods are food items which are derived from groups 1 and 2, and modified in a way that one can replicate at home. Examples of such foods include making jams, pickles, canned fruits, veggies, making breads, cheeses. 4. Ultra-Processed foods Ultra-processed foods usually contain more than five components and ingredients that aren’t common in home cooking. These can include preservatives, emulsifiers, sweeteners, synthetic colours & flavours. Due to their additives, these food items are able to maintain their shelf life for an extended period of time. Examples of Ultra-Processed Foods Ultra-processed foods include ham, sausages, frozen waffles, nuggets, crisps, pizza, mass-produced bread, breakfast cereals, biscuits, carbonated drinks, fruit-flavoured yogurts, instant soups, icecreams and frozen desserts Unprocessed or minimally processed foods Fruit, vegetables, eggs, meat and grains. Processed culinary ingredients Sugar, salt, butter, lard, oils, vinegar Processed foods Freshly made, unpackaged bread, tinned fruits and vegetables, salted nuts, ham, bacon, tinned fish and cheese So why worry about Ultra-Processed Foods? Research on Ultra-Processed Foods Studies from the University of Sao Paulo in Brazil have found that excessive UPF intake (more than 56.8 per cent of the diet) increases the risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and cancer. In 2019, a study published in The BMJ found that people who ate a lot of UPFs (more than four servings a day) were at a 62 per cent greater risk of premature death from all causes than those with a low consumption. For each individual serving of UPF, the risk of death increased by 18 per cent. Conclusion While ultra-processed foods offer convenience and ease, it is important to recognize their negative impact on our health. As a dietitian, I encourage individuals to prioritize whole, minimally processed foods in their diets. By focusing on fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats, we can optimize our nutrient intake, support overall well-being, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Remember, small changes in our dietary choices can have a significant impact on our health in the long run. So, what to do next or for anything else.. If you are needing help with your diet and health, wanting to reduce Ultra Processed foods in your diet or anything else… we can assist you with this. Maybe you wish to change your eating habits, stop tracking or need help optimising the foods you eat and are not sure what programme to select, please do contact us. We would love to help you or your family and friends with any nutrition-related queries big or small. If you want to book your programme TODAY we would love to help you. You can book a 121 Dietitian Programme today by clicking on the link below If you have enjoyed this blog we would love you to share this with your family and friends on your social media channels. Do visit our YouTube Channel for more on keeping your health optimal. If you are interested in how I overcame my Thyroid Autoimmune Condition do check out the About section below Before you go please check out our 121 Dietitian Shop created specifically for optimising your health. Gillian x
The Pros and Cons of a Vegan Diet: Is It Healthy?
Vegan Diet -Is this healthy? I get asked this question a lot! As a dietitian with extensive experience in helping individuals improve their diet and overall health, I understand the exponential interest in veganism. According to Stats of 2023, There Are Approximately 88 Million Vegans in the World. (The VOU) Since there were over 8 billion people in the world, that’s around 1.1%. So what is a vegan diet? Vegan diets exclude all animal products and focuses on plant-based foods. While this dietary approach offers several potential benefits, it also comes with some challenges. In this blog post, we will explore the pros and cons of a vegan diet and discuss its overall impact on health. The Pros of a Vegan Diet Increased Intake of Nutrient-Dense Foods:A well-planned vegan diet will ensure a wide range of plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds are consumed. These foods are super as they are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and dietary fibre, which are essential for overall health and disease prevention. Lower Risk of Chronic Diseases:Numerous studies suggest that a vegan diet may reduce the risk of chronic conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer. This can be attributed to the higher intake of plant-based foods and the avoidance of potentially harmful components found in processed animal products, such as saturated fats, salts, nitrates etc. Weight Management:Many individuals adopt a vegan diet for weight management purposes. Plant-based diets tend to be lower in calories and saturated fats, making them beneficial for weight loss and weight maintenance. Additionally, the high fibre content in plant foods promotes feelings of fullness and aids in appetite control. Environmental Sustainability:The production of animal-based foods contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water pollution. By adopting a vegan lifestyle, individuals can reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to the preservation of natural resources. The Cons of a Vegan Diet Nutritional Deficiencies:While a well-planned vegan diet can meet all nutrient requirements, certain nutrients may require special attention. These include vitamin B12, iron, calcium, omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and iodine. Vegans must ensure they obtain these nutrients through fortified foods, supplements, or carefully selected plant-based sources to prevent deficiencies. Limited Food Choices:Following a vegan diet may limit food choices, especially when dining out or in social settings. It requires individuals to be mindful and creative in meal planning to ensure a varied and balanced diet. Some people may find it challenging to adapt to this dietary change, particularly if they are accustomed to consuming animal products regularly. Potential Social Isolation:Veganism is still relatively less common in some societies, and this can lead to feelings of social isolation or difficulties in finding suitable food options when eating out or attending social events. Building a support network and learning how to navigate social situations are crucial for maintaining a vegan lifestyle without feeling isolated. Potential Nutrient Overload:Although a vegan diet can be highly nutritious, it is possible to consume excessive amounts of processed vegan foods, such as vegan meat substitutes, desserts, and snacks. These products may be high in added sugars, unhealthy fats, and sodium. It is important to prioritize whole, unprocessed plant foods to ensure optimal health benefits. Is a Vegan Diet Healthy? When appropriately planned, a vegan diet can provide all the necessary nutrients for good health and may offer numerous benefits. However, it is crucial to pay attention to nutrient adequacy, especially for nutrients that are more challenging to obtain from plant-based sources. Working with a registered dietitian experienced in vegan diets can help ensure a balanced and nutritionally complete approach. Conclusion A vegan diet can be a healthy and sustainable dietary choice, offering benefits such as increased nutrient intake, reduced risk of chronic diseases, and positive environmental impact. However, careful planning is essential to address potential nutrient deficiencies and maintain a balanced diet. So, what to do next or for anything else.. If you are needing help with your diet and health, wanting to commence a vegan diet or anything else… we can assist you with this. Maybe you wish to change your eating habits, stop tracking or need help optimising the foods you eat and are not sure what programme to select, please do contact us. We would love to help you or your family and friends with any nutrition-related queries big or small. If you want to book your programme TODAY we would love to help you. You can book a 121 Dietitian Programme today by clicking on the link below If you have enjoyed this blog we would love you to share this with your family and friends on your social media channels. Do visit our YouTube Channel for more on keeping your health optimal. If you are interested in how I overcame my Thyroid Autoimmune Condition do check out the About section below Before you go please check out our 121 Dietitian Shop created specifically for optimising your health. Gillian x
The Downside of Calorie Counting: Focusing on Long-Term Health and the Role of Anti-Inflammatory Foods
Calorie Counting – In my decades of experience as a dietitian, I’ve seen many diets come and go. A popular one that never seems to go out of favour is calorie counting. This is continueally promoted as the ultimate solution to weight loss and better health and I see it every day pushed by companies, PTs etc wanting to sell you a plan. For some this is right up their street, others maybe a useful starting point and for the rest a numerical nightmare leading them into a bad relationship with food. I have observed time and time again that focusing on counting calories can be detrimental to our well-being and you can see more about this in my YouTube video or click on the image below. As this is typically the time of year when panic sets in advance of the summer holidays and crash diets are underway I thought I would return to this topic. In this blog, we will explore why calorie counting is not always recommended and how focusing on anti-inflammatory foods and the correct ratios can promote long-term health and longevity. Conclusion While calorie counting may offer short-term benefits in weight management, it often neglects the importance of nutritional quantity and quality, individual variation, and psychological well-being for the long-term. A good example is to take a low kcal cake bar, it may be 100 calories, but it fails to offer any nutritional value instead likely highly processed with a long list of ingredients and inflammatory. A bowl of berries with natural dairy topping – yoghurt/cream however may have more calories but also provides essential nutrients like calcium, vitamin C, polyphenols and fiber making this a better choice for a dessert for your body. Enjoying good quality choices ensures you are physcially and mentally optimised. As an expert dietitian, I am passionate about getting this right for you for life and I teach that long-term health and longevity are best achieved by focusing on anti-inflammatory foods and adopting a holistic approach to nutrition. By emphasizing whole, nutrient-dense foods, flexibility, kindness to ourselves and considering the broader aspects of well-being, we can relax around foods and enjoy a healthier and more fulfilling life. So, what to do next or for anything else.. If you are needing help with your diet and health, activity, sports performance we can assist you with this. Maybe you wish to change your eating habits, stop tracking or need help optimising the foods you eat and are not sure what programme to select, please do contact us. We would love to help you or your family and friends with any nutrition-related queries big or small. If you want to book your programme TODAY we would love to help you. You can book a 121 Dietitian Programme today by clicking on the link below If you have enjoyed this blog we would love you to share this with your family and friends on your social media channels. Do visit our YouTube Channel for more on keeping your health optimal. If you are interested in how I overcame my Thyroid Autoimmune Condition do check out the About section below Before you go please check out our 121 Dietitian Shop created specifically for optimising your health. Gillian x
9 Healthy Snacks to Fuel Your Sport Performance and Maximize Your Results
What are Some of the Best Healthy Snacks for Athletes? Incorporating nutritious healthy snacks into your daily diet is crucial for optimal performance & health whether you are a beginner or a trained athlete. The right snacks can provide the energy and nutrients needed to perform at your best. To help you make the right choices, I have compiled a list below of some of the best healthy snacks for everyone at any time of the day. If you know anything about me and my background you may know that I am not shy in telling you that you don’t need to buy into the commercial crap that is out there, sucking your hard-earned cash and filling you up with nasty fake ingredients that can disrupt your gut and adding to your inflammation. I have run thousands of nutritional programs and offered guidance to people of all ages, resulting in I am proud to say countless successes. After 30 yrs of daily clinics I know what works best for you as an individual based on your lifestyle, your health background, your activity, your ability to cook, genetics (if you have results from Lifecode GX) the access you have to the shops and foods, your likes and dislikes, if you are needing to cook for others, how much time and money you can afford to spend and much more. The depth and breadth of my work is vast and includes working with people who come to me very unwell or unfit. I work with them to successfully improve their energy to get out of bed, to getting them out of the house, and from this to 5km, gym or whatever their goal is. In contrast to the other end of the spectrum, I have had the pleasure of designing programmes for athletes of all abilities including the commonwealth games and Olympic athletes! What I want to highlight here is that everyone needs to fuel their bodies with the right nutrients both macro and micro- getting the proper fuel whatever the stage you are at is 80% of the most important part – the exercise is the last 20%. So what can you do to fuel your body? If you are living off processed protein-packed bars and shakes – it’s time for a rethink. Long-term quality of life being as fit and optimal in health is truly all our goals. Consuming these products may provide you with short-term results but often they just cause more problems down the track with weight issues, health problems, nutrient overload or deficiencies, costs, and confusion. What you want to be working on is nutrient-rich choices, proteins, carbohydrates, fruits and vegetables, these meals and snacks will help you fuel your workouts and reach your fitness goals. The more flexible you are with your diet and lifestyle the more likely for long-term success. The Best Sources of Natural Energy for Improving Performance The best sources of natural energy for athletic performance include, yes, you guessed it; complex carbohydrates, protein, healthy fats, and fibrous fruits and vegetables. These foods are just the same as you would eat for your health and well-being so nothing new or fancy. Many people come to me scared as they really hate these healthier foods and think I am going to make them suffer! This is totally understandable and it is lovely to alleviate their fears within the first few minutes of our appointment. I always explain: if you have fueled your body with ready meals, crisps, takeaways, sweets, and biscuits, your body expects this and your gut bacteria signals to the brain to continue with this food supply. All we have to do is find the areas that need to change, reset the gut bacteria and hey presto! Better diet, better performance, visible results, better sleep, mood…….. The best news is that it is easy to change you just need to know how. Availing of one of our personalized programmes allows for you to get it right once and for all. Healthy Snacks So if you’re looking for a quick and nutritious snack before or after your workout, check out this list of some of the best healthy snacks for athletes. If you want more in-depth recipes, shopping list and snacks that are designed for you do get in touch. 1. Tasty Portable Mix – mix in a tub some seeds, nuts, dried fruit and dark chocolate 2. Bananas Delight – 1 fresh medium banana with some high-fibre crackers or homemade bun 3. Nut Butter – add fruits and vegetables for a quick refreshing protein fibre snack 4. Homemade Protein Smoothie – suitable fruits and vegetables, milled seeds can be blitzed into a dairy or non-dairy liquid for speed and convenience 5. Powerful Greek Yogurt – seeds and berries tasty for a quick pre and post-workout with powerful anti-inflammatory benefits! 6. Peas Bikram style! – flavour up all varieties of peas and roast them for some amazing portable results 7. Energy Bars – homemade mixing fibre flakes, with tasty easy store cupboard ingredients.. 8. Eggs in 60 – pop a couple of eggs into water and heat in the micro for a super tasty snack 9. Mighty Flakes with Milk – again don’t just go for the common cardboard flakes – try different tasty grains – quinoa, buckwheat, amaranth…different milks to suit and more. Not only do they provide soluble fibres but fabulous nutrients including protein and iron. These snacks are versatile and can be altered to suit your specific needs eg: coeliac, vegan, low salt etc. We can assist you if you need to make any dietary changes. Delicious Recipe for a Speedy Post-Sport Meal Sun-dried Tomato and Olive Pita Pockets Ingredients: * 2 whole wheat pita pockets * 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped * 1/4 cup black olives, sliced * 2 tablespoons feta cheese/ feta vegan * 1/4 cup cucumber, diced * 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil * 1 teaspoon oregano * Salt and pepper to taste Instructions: So, what
