Page 15 - Demo

EXPERT TIPS FOR A HEALTHY 2021 While health-focused new year resolutions aren’t a new phenomenon, if 2020 (and perhaps the start of 2021) has taught us anything, it’s that staying as healthy as possible is more important than ever. By Margaret Mielczarek. INSIGHTS As a new year begins, Australians are urged to make their health a priority by taking extra care with how they fuel their bodies. To help make these positive changes, plant-based milk brand Califia Farms has teamed up with nutritionist Jennifer Murrant, co-founder of Healthy Luxe, to provide some simple tips for kick-starting your new year health journey. “After the extraordinary year that was 2020, which impacted everyone in so many ways, our hope is that in 2021 there’ll be a new appreciation for the value of health and ways we can optimise our wellbeing, enhancing our immune systems and increasing vitality,” Ms Murrant said. “One of the things Covid-19 has highlighted is the critical importance of maintaining our health, not only to prevent chronic disease, but also to strengthen our immune systems to fight acute infections.” One way to maintain our health is by increasing our intake of plant-based foods, says Ms Murrant, as these “contain a wide range of nutrients, including essential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory phytonutrients”. How to add plants to your diet Adding plant-based foods to your diet doesn’t have to be boring. All it takes is some creativity in the kitchen. Ms Murrant’s tips for boosting your plant-food intake and improving your overall health and wellness include: • Make simple swaps. For example, replace dairy milk with plant-based milks in coffee, on cereals and in your favourite smoothies. • Go fresh and seasonal. In summer in Australia, we have an abundant supply of colourful, fresh produce that is bursting with flavour and natural sweetness. Variety is key. • Swap highly refined products for wholefoods. For example, white rice to organic brown rice. • Reduce added surgars. Excess consumption of processed sugars has been implicated in many chronic illnesses, as well as weight gain. Check products to ensure they have low or no added sugars. • Stay well hydrated with good quality water. • Eat out wisely. It’s possible to get delicious and healthy plant-based meals in most establishments now, with many restaurants increasing their vegan choices. Just be careful of anything with too much oil, salt and sugar. • Say no to soft drinks. When committing to a healthier diet, it’s important to break the habit of reaching for energy drinks and soft drinks. These sugary drinks, devoid of nutrients, offer an instant energy hit followed shortly by a crash, prompting a craving for more sugar, and continuing the cycle. This plays havoc with blood sugar regulation and health, so it’s important to interrupt this pattern. Holistic approach is key In addition to dietary changes, for overall health and wellbeing in 2021, Ms Murrant recommends a holistic approach. Her tips for a holistic lifestyle include: • Find an exercise or movement you enjoy. • Schedule time for rest and self-care, focusing on reducing stress cycles. • Find time for fun activities and time with friends. • Establish good sleep hygiene practices, such as going to bed and waking at a similar time and removing electronic devices from the bedroom. • Spend time in nature. • Unplug and schedule time away from social media, devices, etc. • Slow down to help regulate your nervous system. Here’s to a fresh, healthy start to 2021! JAN/FEB, 2021 CONVENIENCE WORLD 13