megram - Indexmegram - 55JulGTA - Indexoxidation and damage), enzymes and whole foods in our
daily diet,our bodies are more prone to illness and will age
more quickly.
Enzymes work in conjunction with antioxidants and
other nutrients. Some nutrients are actually co-enzymes,
such as CoQ10 and vitamin A. Other nutrients are a functional
part of the enzymes make up, such as manganese
and zinc. In order for our bodies to remain healthy, energetic
and youthful we must have an abundant supply or
source of enzymes of all three types. The tricky part is that
as well age,our body’s ability to produce enzymes decreases.
If we don’t consume fresh, raw foods, our body’s ability
to break the food down is compromised and creates not
only digestive and intestinal concerns, but also deprives
our bodies of future stores of metabolic enzymes.
What can we do about it? The answer is simply stated,
but potentially a little more difficult to implement.
However, there are definitely things you can do to slow
down the aging process. The biggest factor; sound nutrition
– a well balanced diet including plenty of vegetables,
especially green leafy ones, fruits, nuts, seeds, whole
grains, legumes, fish - all ideally organically raised and of
course, plenty of clean water.
Getting the most out of your food, by supplementing
your meals with a digestive enzyme can also be very helpful.
A “full spectrum” enzyme supplement will help you
digest the carbohydrates, fats and proteins in your food,
and allow your body to assimilate and utilize the components
to keep you healthy and vital. These enzymes are
naturally sourced from plants and/or animals and can to be
taken with a meal to aid in digestion, or away from a meal
to help the body repair from daily stress.
Other factors that are helpful in maintaining your
health, energy levels and increasing longevity are getting
plenty of exercise,at least 30 minutes each day,enjoying at
least 15 minutes of sunshine, regularly participating in
social activities, and reducing your exposure to environmental
toxicity including chemically based personal care
and cleaning products around your home.
For the purposes of this article, I have included 1 food
recipe and 2 household cleaning recipes.
Jo-Anne Hopkins is a Registered Holistic Nutritionist and
Certified Aromatherapist. She is the Licensed Branch
Manager for the Kingston Branch of the Canadian
School of Natural Nutrition. She actively teaches for the
Kingston branch and is currently writing a book on
holistic nutrition for pets. She can be reached by e-mail
at kingston@csnn.ca, by the branch website at
www.csnn.ca/kingston or by telephone at 613-376-1040.
July/August 2008 • 60 • Fifty-Five Plus Magazine
Brownies in the Raw
(You’ll need a food processor or heavy-duty blender for
this recipe)
2 cups (500 ml) cups dates (pitted)
1 cup (250 ml) walnut pieces
1/2 cup (125 ml) cocoa or toasted carob powder
1 tbsp. (15 ml) coconut oil
2 tbsp. (30 ml) of maple syrup
Place dates, walnut, coconut oil and maple syrup into
processor and pulse. While pulsing,slowly add cocoa powder.
Once well combined,pat into a lined 9x9 pan & refrigerate
for 30 minutes. Remove from fridge, slice into sections
and serve.
All Purpose Cleanser
Great for counters, sinks, appliances and most bathroom/kitchen
purposes (antibacterial, anti-fungal, antiviral).
In a large spray bottle combine:
2 cups (500 ml) water
1/2 cup (120 ml) vinegar
20 drops each of tea tree & lemon essential oil
Spray onto surface, allow it to sit for a few seconds and
wipe clean.
Multi-Purpose Souring Cleanser
Great for toilet, showers walls and heavily greased
areas.
Pour vinegar into basin and add 2-3 tbsp (30 – 60 ml)
baking soda. Allow to foam, then scrub clean.