Meet Your Meat

Some people automatically assume that because I choose not to consume animal products, somehow I automatically think everyone should do the same. The exact opposite happens to be true. My studies at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, along with my own research and experimentation, have led me to develop a great appreciation for 'bio-individuality'. The term refers to each human being's body as being completely different and in need of different nutrients. Think of it... no two people are exactly alike, therefore no two diets need to be exactly alike! There are different factors, such as age, ancestry, environment, culture, etc. which make up one's individual needs.

So, perhaps some people feel better with small amounts of animal protein in their diet. If that works for you and makes you feel good, then it makes me feel good too! The only concern of mine is KNOWING where your meat comes from. The majority of meat distributed in North America has been raised on factory farms, where animals are tortured and confined to small living spaces until they are fat enough to be brutally slaughtered. Not only that, but because of the harsh living arrangements, the animals are very susceptible to various viruses and diseases and are therefore given high doses of antibiotics. Who are we to think that by eating this drugged animal, we aren't ingesting some of those antibiotics as well? The animals are also over-fed, usually corn and grain, simply so they will gain weight quicker. Alot of these animals' natural diet is grasses. Think of when you are driving along a countryside and you see cows on a pasture. In my experience, usually the cows are grazing on the grass. When the animals are kidnapped of their natural habits, it throws the entire course of nature off balance. This upsets me, and if it causes you any amount of anguish whatsoever, then I encourage you to start exploring organic, free-range animal products. Do some research on the internet, and perhaps you can even find a farm nearby your house where you can see for yourself how the animals are treated. Shouldn't you want to know where your food is coming from? In my opinion, there is way too much ignorance surrounding the meat industry, and in return, the consumers are suffering in health. It is a vicious cycle, and it is not fair. It is up to you to make choices to help yourself, as well as the environment!

Also, remember that high levels of meat intake (especially red meat) are directly correlated with an elevated risk of heart disease, which is the number one killer today in North America. Limit your meat intake to a few times per week, and substitute meat with other vegetarian sources of protein, such as beans, tofu, tempeh, nuts, and seeds. For recipes using vegetarian sources of protein or other materials related to the treatment of animals for food, please e-mail me directly at shaynayoga@gmail.com

How Healthy is your Immune System?

Did you know that sugar decreases the function of your immune system almost immediately? So, when you feel like you’re coming down with something, try to avoid sugar. Also, if you can keep sugar out of your diet for the most part, it will do wonders for your health. Also, be aware that sugar is present in foods you may not suspect like ketchup and fruit juice.

Get Enough Rest - If your body is overly tired, it will be harder for it to fight off disease…. So, try to get a good night’s sleep!

Eat Garlic Regularly - Garlic is AMAZING! It’s antibacterial, antiviral and anti-fungal. You would do yourself a favor is you ate garlic every day. The key is that it must be fresh to give you optimal health benefits. The active ingredient is destroyed within one hour of smashing the garlic, so use it right away – either by juicing it or just swallow it with water. Just make sure you smash it first.

Don’t Let Stress Become Overwhelming - We all face some stress everyday, but if stress becomes overwhelming then your body will be less able to fight off illnesses. It has been estimated that up to 90 percent of illness and disease is stress-related.

Exercise - When you exercise you increase your circulation and your blood flow throughout your body. The components of your immune system are also better circulated. In a sense, exercising helps your immune system to be more efficient in weeding out and acting upon viruses and diseases. You can review my exercise guidelines for some great tips to get started.

Wash Your Hands - Washing your hands will decrease your likelihood of spreading a virus to your nose, mouth or other people. If your immune system is strong, it should be able to fight off the virus if it does enter your body, but washing your hands provides a bit of extra protection. Be sure you don’t use antibacterial soap for this -- antibacterial soaps are completely unnecessary, and they cause far more harm than good.