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GLOSS chats with UK-based dietician,
Fareeha Jay, for some insights into
popular food movements.
Juice Cleanses
The concept of juice cleanses is that it detoxifies our body of
toxins that we ingest through unhealthy foods. In some cases,
people are asked to only consume fruit and vegetables and abstain
from other foods for cleansing the body.
This is a marketing myth with no nutritional reality. Our body
has its own mechanism to detoxify and remove toxins. Our skin,
gut, liver, and kidneys are continuously cleaning our body and
if our body still needs detoxification, it means our kidneys and
liver are not working properly and we need to go to the hospital.
No cleaning drink will do the job. In fact, cutting out other food
groups can be harmful as you are losing out on so many nutrients.
Rather than following a juice cleansing diet for a quick fix for
weight loss, go for a healthy balanced diet combined with an
active lifestyle.
“We do not realise but it’s because of good nutrition that our
body functions properly. Nutrition means including all food
groups in our diet. It’s not just about eating but about nourishing
our bodies,” said Fareeha.
“Carbohydrates and B vitamins give you energy while proteins
are responsible for the structure and function of cells, tissues and
muscles. Fruit and vegetables give you vitamins, minerals and
antioxidants and dairy provide you with calcium. Healthy fats
help you absorb vitamin A, D, E and K, and some are good for
nerve function, and heart health. Therefore, missing out on even
one food group makes our diet imbalanced,” she added.
Fareeha’s Top Tips For Leading A Nutritious Life
Include all food groups in your diet in moderation.
You need to develop a positive relationship with food, so
that every time you have a treat, you don’t feel guilty. You
have to stop using terms like “cheat meal,” rather you need
to accept them as part of your life as occasional treats.
Never starve yourself.
Include as much fibre as possible.
Snack on fruit and vegetables.
Swap foods for healthy options - chocolate for dates, sweets
for raisins, fried chips for oven chips and so and so.
Think of nutrition not just for losing your weight but to
nourish yourself.
Don’t think of it as a goal but think of it as a way of life.
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