When did relaxing become so difficult? One of the simplest yet most effective recommendations I make to my clients is consistently one which most people claim to struggle with. Relax! It is vitally important for us to sit down 5-10 minutes before we eat and give ourselves some quiet time to let our bodies unwind.
It takes a few minutes for our body to switch into the parasympathetic mode which is essential for proper digestion, absorption and assimilation of the nutrients from our food. North American culture has forced the majority of the population into a constant state of stress. We are continually bombarded with work deadlines, bills, relationship struggles, media, cell phones, health issues, chemical toxins and perceived stress. The list is endless. These stresses mean our bodies are always using the Sympathetic Nervous System (fight or flight). We need to relax to allow ourselves to switch to the Parasympathetic Nervous System to digest food better. While in fight or flight mode, our body shunts all available energy and resources away from the digestive system out to our muscles and extremities. This means that if we consume food while in this state, we have little-to-no energy left to properly digest. The end result can be anything from weight-gain or malnourishment to diabetes and allergies.
It’s a simple suggestion, but one that can take some time to master… relax when you eat. Take that extra few minutes beforehand and focus on several deep, relaxing, cleansing breaths. If anyone gives you weird looks for trying this, just tell them your Vancouver Nutritionist told you to do it!
