Blog

What are Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are one of the three main macronutrients that are essential for human health and well-being, along with proteins and fats. They are a primary source of energy for our bodies and play a vital role in many physiological processes.

Carbohydrates are made up of simple sugars, such as glucose and fructose, and complex sugars, such as starch and fibers. Simple sugars are found in fruits, vegetables, and other natural foods, while complex sugars are found in grains, legumes, and other starchy foods.

When we eat carbohydrates, our body breaks them down into glucose, which is the primary source of energy for our cells. The glucose is then transported throughout the body by the bloodstream, where it is used by the cells to perform various functions, such as muscle movement, brain function, and maintaining body temperature.

Carbohydrates are also used to store energy in the form of glycogen, which is a complex carbohydrate that is stored in the liver and muscles. This glycogen can be quickly broken down into glucose and used for energy during physical activity.

In addition to providing energy, carbohydrates also play a role in the function of the digestive system. Fiber, a type of carbohydrate that cannot be broken down by the body, helps to keep the digestive system healthy by promoting regular bowel movements and preventing constipation.

It’s important to note that not all carbohydrates are equal, some carbohydrates like refined carbohydrates, such as white bread and sugary foods, can lead to weight gain and other health problems, while others like whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes are healthier options that provide essential nutrients and fiber.

In conclusion, Carbohydrates are one of the three main macronutrients that are essential for human health and well-being. They provide the body with energy and play a vital role in many physiological processes. It’s important to choose a variety of healthy carbohydrates to ensure that your body is getting the essential nutrients it needs to function properly.

Muscle recovery Suppliments

There are several different types of muscle recovery supplements, and each one may have different pros and cons. Some popular types of muscle recovery supplements include:

Protein powders: Protein powders are a popular supplement for muscle recovery because they provide the body with the building blocks it needs to repair and rebuild muscle tissue. Pros of protein powders include the ability to easily increase your protein intake, convenience, and variety of flavors. Cons of protein powders include potential allergic reactions and digestive issues for some people, and also some powders may contain added sugar and artificial ingredients.

Creatine: Creatine is a popular supplement that has been shown to improve muscle strength and power. Pros of creatine include improved athletic performance and muscle mass, and also it is relatively inexpensive. Cons of creatine include potential side effects such as weight gain, muscle cramping and dehydration.

BCAAs (Branched Chain Amino Acids): BCAAs are a popular supplement that can help with muscle recovery by providing the body with the amino acids it needs to repair muscle tissue. Pros of BCAAs include improved muscle recovery, reduced muscle soreness and fatigue. Cons of BCAAs include potential stomach discomfort, and also some studies found no significant benefit from taking BCAAs.

Glutamine: Glutamine is an amino acid that plays a role in muscle recovery and immune function. Pros of glutamine include improved muscle recovery and immune function. Cons of glutamine include potential stomach discomfort, and also some studies found no significant benefit from taking glutamine.

It’s important to note that muscle recovery supplements may not be necessary for everyone and it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any supplements. Also, it’s important to be aware of the potential side effects of any supplement and to only take them in the recommended dosage.

Food and drink marketed as healthy

The food health rating system, as implemented by the Australian government, is meant to help consumers make healthier food choices by rating foods on a scale of 1-5 stars based on their nutritional content. However, this system has come under scrutiny in recent years as it has been found to be based on outdated nutritional research.

One major issue with the food health rating system is that it does not take into account the overall sugar content of a food product. For example, many fruit juices are rated as 5-star foods, despite the fact that they can contain high amounts of added sugar. This is because the rating system focuses on the presence of nutrients like vitamins and minerals, rather than the overall sugar content of a food product.

Another issue with the food health rating system is that it does not take into account the overall calorie content of a food product. This means that a food product can be rated as healthy, even if it is high in calories. This can lead to confusion for consumers, as they may assume that a high-star rated food is a healthy choice, when in reality it may be high in calories.

Additionally, the food health rating system does not consider the way in which the food was processed, and how it affects the nutrient density. The rating system does not differentiate between fresh, whole foods and processed foods with added sugars, salts, and unhealthy fats. This can lead to confusion for consumers, as they may assume that a high-star rated processed food is as healthy as a fresh whole food.

In conclusion, the food health rating system as implemented by the Australian government is based on outdated nutritional research and does not take into account the overall sugar and calorie content of a food product, nor the way it was processed. This can lead to confusion for consumers and may not accurately reflect the healthfulness of a food product. It is important for consumers to read food labels and look beyond the star rating when making food choices.

Alcohol

When it comes to alcohol, it can be difficult to know what to believe. On one hand, you may have heard that a glass of red wine a day can be good for your heart. On the other hand, you may have heard that drinking too much alcohol can lead to a variety of health problems. So, what is the truth?

The truth is that, like most things in life, moderation is key. Drinking a moderate amount of alcohol, defined as up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men, has been linked to a variety of health benefits. For example, studies have found that moderate alcohol consumption can:

  • Raise levels of “good” cholesterol (HDL)
  • Help prevent blood clots
  • Lower the risk of heart disease
  • Lower the risk of type 2 diabetes

It is important to note that these benefits are mainly seen in moderate drinking and it’s related to certain types of alcohol. Red wine, in particular, contains antioxidants called polyphenols which may be responsible for the heart health benefits.

However, drinking too much alcohol can be harmful to your health. Consuming more than the recommended moderate amounts can increase the risk of a variety of health problems, including:

  • High blood pressure
  • Liver damage
  • Cancer
  • Depression and anxiety
  • Unintentional injuries such as car accidents
  • Brain damage

Alcohol consumption should be avoided by certain groups of people such as pregnant women, people on certain medications and people with certain health conditions.

    In conclusion, drinking a moderate amount of alcohol can have some health benefits, but it’s important to remember that moderation is key. Drinking too much can lead to a variety of health problems, so it’s important to be aware of your own drinking habits and to make sure that you’re not putting your health at risk. If you have any concerns about your alcohol consumption, it’s best to talk to your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

    Paleo and AIP

    The Paleo diet and the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) diet are both popular diets that focus on eating whole, nutrient-dense foods. The Paleo diet is based on the idea that our ancestors ate a certain way during the Paleolithic era, and that by eating the same way today, we can improve our health and well-being. The diet consists of whole, nutrient-dense foods that were available to our ancestors, such as meats, fish, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. Processed foods, grains, legumes, and dairy products are avoided on the Paleo diet.

    On the other hand, the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) diet is a more restrictive version of the Paleo diet, specifically designed for people with autoimmune diseases. The AIP diet aims to reduce inflammation in the body and heal the gut, which is thought to be a key factor in the development of autoimmune diseases. The AIP diet eliminates many foods that are considered healthy on the Paleo diet such as nuts, seeds, nightshades and eggs, as well as grains, legumes, and dairy products. The goal of the AIP diet is to identify and eliminate the foods that trigger autoimmune symptoms and then gradually reintroduce them back in.

    It’s worth noting that both diets focus on nutrient-dense foods and eliminating processed foods and added sugars. But the AIP diet is more restrictive and eliminates more foods that might cause inflammation. Both diets are considered to be healthy and can be beneficial for people with autoimmune diseases, however, it’s important to seek the advice of a healthcare professional before starting any restrictive diet, especially if you have specific health conditions.

    What is Protein

    Protein is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in maintaining good health and achieving weight loss goals. This macronutrient is made up of building blocks called amino acids and is found in a wide variety of foods including meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, beans, and peas.

    When it comes to weight loss, protein is especially important because it helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied, which can help to curb cravings and prevent overeating. This is because protein takes longer to digest than carbohydrates or fats, which means that it keeps you feeling full for longer periods of time. Additionally, protein helps to build and maintain muscle mass, which is important for weight loss because muscle burns more calories than fat.

    Protein also plays an important role in maintaining good health. It is needed for the growth and repair of cells, and it also helps to make enzymes, hormones, and other body chemicals. Protein is also essential for maintaining a healthy immune system and is important for wound healing and recovery from surgery or injury.

    When it comes to getting enough protein in your diet, the key is to choose high-quality protein sources that are also low in calories. Good choices include lean meats such as chicken, turkey, and fish, as well as plant-based proteins like beans, lentils, and tofu. It is also important to balance your protein intake with other macronutrients like carbohydrates and fats in order to promote a healthy overall diet.

    In summary, protein is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in weight loss and overall health. By choosing high-quality protein sources and balancing your protein intake with other macronutrients, you can help to promote weight loss and maintain good health.

    Are fats evil or essential?

    For many years, fats have been considered the enemy when it comes to weight loss and overall health. The idea that fats are inherently bad for the body has led many people to avoid them altogether, opting instead for low-fat or fat-free products. However, this way of thinking is misguided and can actually be detrimental to our health.

    Fats are an essential nutrient that our bodies need in order to function properly. They play a crucial role in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and minerals, such as Vitamin A, D, E and K. They also help to keep our skin and hair healthy, and are important for the development and function of the brain and nervous system.

    The key to understanding fats is to recognize that not all fats are created equal. There are “good” fats, such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can actually help to lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease. These “good” fats can be found in foods like avocados, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish like salmon and tuna.

    Saturated fats, which were once thought to be entirely harmful, have been found to have some health benefits as well. They provide energy, support cell growth, protect the liver from toxins, and are important for the absorption of certain vitamins and minerals. Saturated fats are found in animal products such as meat, butter, cheese and cream.

    On the other hand, there are “bad” fats, such as trans fats, which can increase cholesterol and increase the risk of heart disease. These “bad” fats can be found in processed foods like cookies and crackers.

    In order to get the most benefit from fats, it is important to focus on getting enough of the “good” fats and minimizing the “bad” fats in your diet. This can be done by incorporating more healthy fats into your diet, such as avocados, nuts, and fatty fish, and cutting back on processed foods that are high in trans fats and saturated fats should be consumed in moderation.

    In conclusion, fats are an essential nutrient that play a crucial role in maintaining good health. The key is to choose the right types of fats and incorporate them into your diet in the right amounts. By doing this, you can help to lower your risk of heart disease, improve your overall health, and even help with weight loss.

    Step 1 – Mindset

    Deciding to start your journey towards change and mentally preparing yourself.

    Artice – Fear of judgement

    Any time you decide to go on a holiday or travel away from home you usually start by making the decision to go. Once you have decided where you want to go, the next step is to mentally prepare yourself with all the things you will need to organise for your journey. You have a conscious (or perhaps unconscious) list of the clothes and toiletries you’ll need to pack. You’ll think about who to ask to collect your mail or look after your pets. You might also have in the back of your mind things like “I must remember to fill the car with fuel”. All these things form part of your journey, although they are all things that happen before you actually leave home. This is the preparation stage.

    The same can be said about starting a journey of change.

    The very first step in any journey is making the decision to move from where you are to where you want to be. To decide to change your direction and uncover something new.

    The next step is mentally preparing yourself. Thinking about and then organising your support team, and setting yourself up for success by reducing or eliminating all the stumbling blocks.

    The key to success is momentum. Continuously taking small steps forward. Setting goals is also an important part of success. Without a goal to aim for, you are not very likely to find yourself achieving what you want.

    You have probably heard the phrase “Dream big”. When setting your goals, it’s a great idea to dream big and think about what your ideal picture looks like. But what happens if your dreams and goals seem so far out of your reach at the moment? It is easy to lose momentum and just give up. The secret to gaining momentum towards your goals is little steps. Breaking down a large task into smaller more realistic goals, and then celebrating with each smaller goal you successfully reach.

    Your journey of change might be a physical one. It might be a journey of weight loss. Or perhaps it is a fitness journey. Perhaps your journey is one of mental, emotional or spiritual change or personal growth.

    No matter what your personal goal is, once you have decided that you want to change, it is important to have support and accountability.

    There are many different support systems you can lean on. Common ones includes getting support from your family or friends. Having supportive people around you cheering you on and encouraging you to reach your goals means you will be more likely to succeed.

    Another great support resource is inside The Metanoia Journey Community, which has like-minded people supporting and encouraging each other on their journey.

    Step 2 – Making changes

    When you are serious about changing your weight, improving your diet and exercise is key. This isn’t new advice. You’ve probably heard it all before. But we’re going to help you to break it down into smaller, more manageable steps.

    Starting a weight loss journey can be both exciting and daunting. There are some simple things you should change or can improve on right from the beginning. Increasing your water, increasing your protein, reducing sugars and introducing low level exercises are all important first steps to begin your journey of losing weight. It is important to begin by improving these simple areas of your life, and these improvements are all within your control. You are in the driver’s seat on this journey. You have the keys, and you have decided what and where your ideal destination is. Now the journey begins by taking those first steps.

    Let us help you understand how simple these steps can be to put in place at the beginning of your journey. Join us on the Metanoia Community Forum to start or join a discussion on the first steps to take, or to find your own supportive community of friends as you begin your own journey of change.

    Step 3 – Gaining momentum

    Now that you have cleaned up your diet, are eating nutritious foods, drinking sufficient water, and have incorporated some simple movement into your day, what’s next?

    Decreasing your carbohydrate intake, eliminating processed foods, increasing low intensity cardio exercise, and adding in some weight training.

    Now I don’t mean you need to become a body builder. But you do need to strengthen and tone your muscles. Building muscles helps to burn off your excess fat stores.

    Low intensity steady state (LISS) cardio exercises are exercises like running, cycling, swimming, brisk walking, and other cardio activities that require low-intensity exercise for longer periods, typically 30 to 60 minutes, where your heart rate remains steady at around 60 percent of your maximum heart rate for the duration of the workout.

    You can work out your maximum age-related heart rate by subtracting your age from 220. For example, for a 40-year-old person, the estimated maximum age-related heart rate would be calculated as 220 – 40 years = 180 beats per minute (bpm). For LISS exercises, 60% maximum heart rate for a 40-year-old person would then be 60% x 180 bpm = 108 beats per minute (bpm).

    Join us in the Metanoia Community Forum to discover what other people are doing to gain momentum as they work towards reaching their weight loss goals.