Nutrition Advice - Fasting
As a Nutritional Therapist based in Exeter, I frequently encounter individuals considering fasting for various reasons. However, before delving into fasting practices, it's essential to comprehend the why and how behind fasting, particularly from a naturopathic nutritional therapy standpoint. This understanding can uncover necessary preparatory steps your body might require before embarking on a fasting journey.
If you already maintain a well-balanced diet, consume minimal processed foods, drink adequate water, and engage in regular exercise, frequent fasting may hold little necessity. Exploring the motives behind fasting can also reveal alternative options more suitable for individual needs, such as adjusting dietary habits for weight loss, detoxifying by eliminating processed foods, or addressing gut issues to support digestive health.
Benefits of Fasting
People choose to fast for various reasons, ranging from religious practices to supporting weight loss or giving the digestive system a break. The potential benefits of fasting include reduced inflammation, improved blood sugar control, enhanced immune function, detoxification support, improved appetite regulation, and optimised mitochondrial function.
Precautions to Consider
Before initiating fasting, it's crucial to assess the balance of blood sugar levels. If reliance on simple carbohydrates, sugary foods/drinks, or caffeine is common, rebalancing blood sugar should precede fasting attempts. Moreover, individuals fasting for detoxification purposes need to ensure adequate hydration, clear routes of elimination, and optimal liver function, as impaired detoxification pathways can limit the effectiveness of fasting.
Additionally, prolonged or frequent fasting may lead to nutrient depletion, emphasising the importance of consuming a nutrient-rich diet or considering supplements to mitigate potential deficiencies. Consulting a healthcare professional, such as a GP or Nutritional Therapist, is advisable to assess individual suitability for fasting and receive tailored guidance.
Practical Tips for Fasting
- Consult with a GP to address any contraindications for fasting.
- Seek guidance from a Nutritional Therapist to optimise fasting protocols for individual needs.
- Consider starting with a 14-hour fasting window daily and observe any health improvements.
- Pay attention to breaking the fast gradually with nourishing, balanced meals to support digestion and blood sugar regulation.
- Incorporate relaxation techniques like warm baths and gentle exercises during fasting periods to facilitate rest and rejuvenation.
Understanding the nuances of fasting and approaching it mindfully can help individuals reap its potential benefits while minimising risks. Remember, fasting is a personalised journey, and finding the right approach tailored to your unique needs is key to optimising its outcomes.
Nutritional Therapy in Exeter.
Looking for a dietitian, nutritionist or nutritional therapist? Want to know what the difference is and how I can help you?
Want to find out how a change to your nutrition can improve your health? Contact me here for your free 15 minute nutritional therapy consultation.
Ready to book your nutritional therapy appointment, book your appointments in Topsham, Exminster or online here.
What is Nutritional Therapy?
Nutritional Therapy is a holistic approach to health and wellbeing that focuses on using food and nutrition to support the body's natural healing processes.
I provide personalised nutrition plans tailored to individual needs.
Whether you're looking to improve digestion, boost energy levels, manage weight, improve your nutrition intake, or address specific health concerns. Nutritional Therapy can offer valuable insights and support on your journey to optimal health.
My Nutritional Therapy diploma is held with the School of Health, and I am a registered Nutritional Therapist with the Federation of Nutritional Therapy Practitioners.
What is the difference between a; dietitian, nutritionist and nutritional therapist.
Dietitian's - Dietitian's provide practical guidance to sick individuals to help them make appropriate, healthy choices for a specific medical conditions. They often work as part of a clinical team, including for example doctors, nurses, physiotherapists etc. They take a direct approach to the illness being presented to them, not the body as a whole.
Nutritionists - Registered nutritionists are qualified to provide information and nutrition advice about food and eating habits. They may take a similar approach to a Nutritional Therapist. Nutritionists normally operate out of private practices. Dieticians will normally operate out of the NHS.
In general, nutritionists provide evidence-based information and guidance about the impacts of food and nutrition on the health and wellbeing of humans
Nutritional Therapists
Nutritional therapists practice complementary medicine, taking a holistic approach to the symptoms that are presenting in the body, They provide recommendations for diet and lifestyle to reduce or prevent health issues and illnesses. They work on the belief that the body has underlying nutritional and biochemical imbalances that lead to poor health, including mental health problems.
You can view my online brochure here, click on the square in the corner to make it screen size
