People are eating more calories then ever before, yet nutrient deficiencies are considered one of the major causes of modern illnesses including cancer, obesity and age-related degenerative diseases. How can this be? Because when you eat more calories then your body needs, and they are “empty” calories-meaning they are not rich in nutrients-this will cause your body to become deficient in at least on of the 40 micro-nutrients essential for life. When this happens, your body overcompensates to ensure immediate survival, but in the process causes a lowered immune system, DNA damage and accelerated aging. Dr. Bruce Ames, a professor at the University of California, Berkley, has been studying the connection between micro-nutrient deficiencies, genetic damage and cancer for several decades and discussed his findings at a recent medical association meeting. I have been citing Dr. Ames’ work for the past 10 years when lecturing to physicians. What I like about his research is it clearly establishes the fact that nutrient deficiencies are a more significant and correctable CAUSE of diseases like cancer, obesity, Alzheimer’s disease, heart disease and diabetes then genetic predisposition. Just one more reason to look at your daily diet for true health.
Some examples of empty calorie foods are:
- Pasta
- All White Fluffy Foods (cakes, white bread, white rice, Twinkies)
- Anything that has hydrogenated oil in it (read the labels!!!)
- High fructose corn syrup
- Fried foods
Some examples of nutrient dense foods are:
- Green leafy vegetables
- Sprouted grain breads and tortillas (e.g. Ezekiel sprouted bread and tortillas)
- Organic goat’s milk dairy products
- Quality protein that is prepared simply (broiled, baked, poached)
- Fresh fruit in limited quantities (always eat twice as many servings of vegetables as you do fruit)
In health,
Dr. Gina L. Nick
NMD PhD
President California Naturopathic Doctors Association
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