Family Health: Good nutrition equates to good health

By Michele Sevier

(NC)—Knowledge is power in the on-going quest to take charge of our health and prevent disease. It is, for example, startling to hear that even fresh, farm-picked fruit and vegetables are no longer as vitamin-rich as they were a century ago. Modern agricultural practices such as non-crop rotation, premature harvesting, and genetic engineering are essentially robbing our food – and that's before we cook, or bake, or microwave so many more of the remaining nutrients away.

These facts may be behind the landmark article published on June 19, 2002 in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), where the association reversed its long-standing anti-vitamin policy and advised adults to take a multi-vitamin every day.

And it's a good family practice too. Multi-vitamins reduce stress, boost your immune system, and contribute to healthy growth and development overall. Since the body cannot manufacture most vitamins and minerals (micronutrients) we rely on food for an adequate supply.

Even those who take pride in eating a healthy and balanced diet are at risk of a micronutrient deficiency, due to lifestyle factors such as stress, or the inability to absorb and digest nutrients as we age. Here's why:

• Stress – is a primary factor in the depletion of zinc, vitamin C, and B-complex vitamins in our bodies.

• Aging – can make it more difficult for the body to absorb and utilize nutrients. For this reason, it is important to choose a multi-vitamin that encourages proper digestion, absorption, and assimilation where nutrients are needed most.

You'll find that taking charge and control of your health is easier than you think. Vitamins, minerals and nutrients tend to work together and there are just four core nutrient groups that adults, kids, teens and seniors should be sure to include every day. These are: vitamins and minerals, essential fatty acids, green superfood blends, and protein. Drop in to your local Nutrition House store for the complimentary Nutritional Foundation Program guide, or get it by phone at 1-888-466-3085. Store personnel have proven to be a sound and reliable source for all questions on preventative health.

Michele Sevier is a Doctor of Natural Medicine, a Registered Aromatherapy Health Practitioner, an authority in nutritional and botanical medicines, and also holds a doctorate in acupuncture.

- News Canada