‘Empowering ourselves to fuel our bodies can make a world of difference in how we function,’ says Barrie dietician
Let’s face it. Prioritizing our health and wellness can feel impossible some days.
Between the hustle at the office and the chaos at home, it can be difficult to find those moments of self-care. But taking the time to put ourselves first is important — not only for our mental well-being but for our overall health, too. In fact, empowering ourselves to fuel our bodies can make a world of difference in how we function, especially when it comes to managing symptoms and conditions.
In honour of Nutrition Month, here are some of the ways women can prioritize their health through nutrition.
Menstruation
Symptoms, like cramping and bloating, can be challenging to manage each month, but luckily, nutrition can play a significant role in helping us move forward. Foods that are rich in iron and omega-3 fatty acids can do wonders for menstrual health, as iron can counteract anemia and omega-3 fatty acids can reduce the intensity of period pain. Next time you are experiencing symptoms, look to incorporate more shellfish and seafood into your dinner lineup.
Endometriosis
If you are in search of managing endometriosis through nutrition, including more anti-inflammatory foods in your diet will be key. Inflammation, unfortunately, can worsen the symptoms of endometriosis, so incorporating more anti-inflammatory foods, like almonds, walnuts, blueberries and oranges, can help with pain management.
Osteoporosis
Once bone deterioration has occurred, it can be difficult to reverse symptoms and pain. That’s why prioritizing nutrition for bone density is especially important for women and during the menopausal journey. Some of the best ways to keep your bones healthy include exercising and eating foods rich in calcium (yogurt) and vitamin D (fatty fish).
Women are known for putting others in front of themselves, but this Nutrition Month, it’s time we prioritize our health. To learn more, visit dietitianservices.ca.
Sautéed mixed greens
Looking for the perfect mixed green side? Well, look no further. This recipe is brimming with leafy greens, like kale, chard, and spinach, making it a go-to side for packing in nutrients, like fibre, iron, and vitamins.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 sweet red pepper, diced
- 1 clove garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/4 tsp sesame oil
- 2 tsp sesame seeds
- 1 tub PC Organics Kale, Chard, Spinach Salad Mix
- Pinch salt
Instructions:
- In large nonstick frying pan, heat oil over medium-low heat. Add red pepper; cook, stirring occasionally, for four to five minutes or until softened. Add garlic; cook one minute longer.
- Add sesame oil and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Increase heat to medium. Stir in greens; cook, turning with tongs, for one to two minutes or until wilted and hot. Sprinkle with salt and serve immediately
Eve Laws is a registered dietitian at Loblaws on Bayfield Street in Barrie.
