Before you start a new ’diet’, 'detox' or 'cleanse' this January
Another new year, another time where companies pray on vulnerable people selling quick fix diets, ‘detoxes’ and ‘cleanses’ that aren't evidence based and don't work!
Firstly, cleanses and detox diets are a load of rubbish and here’s why:
We have excellent inbuilt systems working day and night to remove waste and toxins from our body – our kidneys, liver, lungs, gut and skin. So we DO NOT need detox cleanses to do this for us!
Most ‘detox diets’ are restrictive and nutritionally imbalanced, and actually lack the important nutrients these systems need to do their job properly.
They can also have a negative impact on our energy levels and relationship with food.
Generally, an positive benefits they might have are usually short lived as they are unsustainable in the long run as they are so restrictive.
So, if we want to focus on our health what can we do this January? Lets change the focus and the narrative:
How about if, in January rather than focusing on abstinence or removing foods, we focused on adding foods in that we know support our IBD and our health?
FOODS TO ADD IN THIS JANUARY TO SUPPORT YOUR HEALTH & IBD
Increase fruit and vegetables aiming for at least 5 portions per day - Increase by 1 portion every couple of days to allow your bowel to adjust. To increase tolerance in IBD flares peel, soften, steam, mash, blend, soup or smoothie them. Fruit and vegetables provide important micronutrients and fibre that support our body systems and can help to reduce IBD symptoms.
Add in 2 portions of oily fish weekly (salmon, mackerel, anchovies, sardines, herring, trout) - These increase omega 3 intake which are important for our overall health and may be supportive in IBD.
Include more lean protein sources like chicken, turkey, fish, eggs, low fat dairy or plant-based option like tofu, tempeh, nuts (nut butters and flours if flaring), beans and lentils with each meal - Protein is vital for our body's normal functioning, growth and repair - our protein requirements increase in an IBD flare.
Include carbohydrates containing fibre and resistant starch like oats, wholegrains, and potatoes. Carbohydrates are our body and brains primary source of energy so they are really important particularly in fatigue in IBD. Carbohydrates with fibre not only support our gut health but also provide longer lasting energy.
If you feel a bit lost or overwhelmed as to what is right for you and your IBD and you would like more personalised support from an IBD specialist clinic this January we can help you.
We are a nutrition and dietetics clinic specialising providing exceptional care to improve the quality of life of people living with IBD. We bring clarity around food and IBD and remove uncertainty and fear around food.
Our IBD specialist Nutritionist (Clemmie) and specialist gastroenterology and IBD Dietician (Jess) both have IBD too so ‘get it’ and are so passionate about helping others with IBD.
If you would like support with your IBD please book a free initial call via the button below so we can find out more about you, discuss how we can help and take you through our appointment options.
Disclaimer: All content found on the nalmclinic.com website, including: text, video, or other formats have been created for informational purposes only. The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor, consultant or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
We are all wonderfully unique and what works for one person may not work for another so please seek help and advice before changing your diet to work out the right way forward for you.