Thursday, November 25, 2010

Snacking and Watching

Whether you are sitting down to watch the game, your favourite TV show or a movie - we have become a society that likes to eat and watch. Even when we leave the house we like to eat and watch, that's why there are concession stands at movie theatres, concerts, sporting events, etc. The snack options away from home (hot dogs, chips, candy, buttery popcorn, pop, fries...) are often very high in calories because they are high in fat, sugar, or both. Not only are they calorie dense, but also lacking or low in nutrients.

You have more control over the snacks that you serve at home. If you know you're going to someone's home you can always bring your own snacks to keep that control and create healthy opportunities. Ideally you are taking time to eat snacks in the kitchen rather than in front of the TV. This is mindful eating. When we're busy doing something else (such as watching football) and eating, we don't even notice how much we eat because we aren't paying attention to it. What does this mean - overeating! Also, just like you would portion a meal onto a plate, you should portion your snack onto a plate (or other dish), to create the mindfulness of portion control. If you eat right out of the package you are likely to eat more than if you portioned some onto a plate.

Take time to enjoy the food. When you're watching the game, watch the game. When you're having a snack, have a snack.

As always, my favourite words: BALANCE, VARIETY, and MODERATION come into play. If there are less healthy foods available, don't feel you have to deprive yourself, but balance it out with vegetables, fruits, low fat milk products, whole grains, etc. Practice portion control by splitting a dessert, having a small handful of chips, etc.

Enjoy being around friends and family, and cheer on our Roughriders on Sunday!!

Steph Wheler
www.nutrishus.com

Thursday, November 18, 2010

Packages now available!

Check out the something nutrishus website to see the packages now being offered. You can still purchase individual sessions, but packages offer savings and accountability.

Steph Wheler
www.nutrishus.com

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Dietitian vs Nutritionist

Dietitians are often asked what the difference is between a dietitian and a nutritionist and you will find that most dietitians will correct you if you call them a nutritionist. This is a very important distinction for people to understand, so it is a great question to ask.

A Registered Dietitian has completed a Bachelor's degree specializing in foods and nutrition and an accredited internship or a graduate degree. This title is protected by law under provincial legislation so that only qualified practitioners who have met education requirements can use the title Registered Dietitian. This ensures you are getting advice that is current, credible, and scientifically based.

The title 'Nutritionist' is not protected and thus there is no guarantee that the individual has the appropriate education to provide nutrition advice. A Registered Dietitian is required to meet the credentials mentioned above by law.

Your health is important, so make sure you check the credentials of the health professionals you turn to. Visit Dietitians of Canada to learn more about how "Dietitians make the Difference"!

Steph Wheler
www.nutrishus.com

Sunday, November 7, 2010

Create a Habit

People are often looking for the newest craze in diets and exercise; what they look for is a quick and easy solution. However, it is a never ending battle and a money making industry. There are no quick and easy solutions!

To create the healthy life you desire, you need to focus on little changes that you can stick with. You need to create habits. I am all for trying new things, and I don't mean that you should always do the same thing and get bored with your food or exercise. I mean get in the habit of walking daily, or adding fibre to your breakfast cereal. Find little things all around you that can make a BIG difference now and in your future. If you create a habit, you will eventually do it without thinking so that you can move on to create another new habit.

What habit are you going to create? I'm working on running 3-4 times per week.

Steph Wheler
www.nutrishus.com