This post was adopted from Reliv International and written by Director of Product Development & Fit3 Trainer Tina Van Horn.
The food we eat plays an important role in our health and wellbeing. Missing balanced main meals and unhealthy snacking patterns can lead to poor diet quality, unhealthy body weight and consequently to the presence of chronic diseases. According to recent studies, 63% of Australians aged 18 and over are overweight or obese, while in New Zealand 1 in 3 adults are obese. These statistics are indicative of a diet that falls short of key nutrients like magnesium, vitamin C, vitamin E, and vitamin A.
Empty Calories and Malnourishment
According to functional medicine advocate, Dr. Mark Hyman, “Research also shows that since 1970, we have been eating an average of 500 additional calories a day, mostly from high fructose corn syrup and other carbohydrates. These nutrient-poor, calorie-dense, high-carbohydrate foods crowd out healthier choices while creating nutritional deficiencies like omega-3 fats, magnesium, zinc, and vitamin D – negatively affecting our metabolism and our overall health.”
Simply put, we’ve been overfed and undernourished for a very long time. In fact, most obese children and adults are actually malnourished.
Nutrition and Metabolism
While that might sound contradictory, an abundance of calories does not necessarily deliver the right nutrients that your body needs. Actually, the very opposite is true: Overeating can create nutrient deficiencies. You can eat too many calories and too few nutrients. And guess what: You need vitamins and minerals to process all those empty calories. Low levels of nutrients lead to a poorly functioning metabolism.
Dr. Hyman adds, “When deficiencies become the underlying cause of weight loss resistance, I find nutrient-based treatment can often help reset my patients’ metabolisms to balance out body chemistry. Getting the correct amount of nutrients can help you burn fat, balance blood sugar, stabilise hormones and build and maintain muscle mass.”
Optimal Nutrition to the Rescue
Reliv’s core nutrition products are loaded with protein, and more than 25 vitamins, minerals, and super-powered antioxidants to provide comprehensive supplementation for a healthy metabolism and optimal health with one delicious shake per day.
Reliv ReShape is the perfect meal replacement shake and especially ideal for those on the go. With 12 grams of non-GMO soy protein, LunaRich® and all the vitamins and minerals required for a healthy meal, preparing a delicious, nutritious shake is quick and easy.
If you’re trying to lose weight, exercise alone won’t be enough. Make sure your diet is packed with nutrient-rich fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, and give your metabolism a jump start by adding Reliv nutrition to the mix. Give your body what it needs to stay healthy as you work toward weight loss goals.