If we do not train people on obtaining proper individualized health then we are dooming them and their offspring to a life of sickness and shortened life spans.  It won't matter how much money they have to invest in a so-called "education" if they aren't truly healthy (which most of us aren't) and able to understand their health better than their generalized, acute-based medical doctor and people calling themselves health professionals.

We are bombarded as young people but also as parents with messages of obtaining formal education for the so-called "knowledge economy" but do we here about training young people on taking better care of themselves other than visiting a medical doctor in a 10 minute office visit?

When I was growing up the messages I received were of consumerism, buying the latest piece of junk gadget.  I sometimes heard things about nutrition but I thought it meant only choosing so-called "healthy foods."

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Table Of Contents

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The truth is nutrition is far more than food and all age groups, but the youth especially, need better training in real root cause healthcare rather than waiting to become sick and end-up in the emergency room or doctor's office where their training, in a 10 minute office visit, is not about health but more about "sick care."

Health Is Far More Than Food: It's Recognition Of The Human Frame Like A Botanist Does A Plant

Many of our youth receive formal education in subjects such as biology, chemistry and other subjects related to the human condition.  They also receive some very basic training in a so-called "food pyramid."   This food pyramid is based on the fundamentally flawed Standard American Diet, with an appropriate acronym of "SAD."

The USDA Food Guide Pyramid has a rich history that spans over six decades. It all started with the first National Nutrition Conference in 1941, which was prompted by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. This conference led to the development of Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs) by the USDA, along with specified caloric intakes and essential nutrients.

In 1943, the USDA introduced the 'Basic Seven' as a modified version of the nutritional guidelines. This modification aimed to address the shortage of food supplies during the Second World War. The 'Basic Seven' included categories like milk, vegetables, fruit, eggs, all meat, cheese, fish, and poultry, cereal and bread, and butter.

To simplify the guidelines, the USDA introduced the 'Basic Four' in 1956, which continued until 1979. This version included categories like milk, vegetable and fruit, meat, and grain. As chronic diseases became more prevalent, the USDA recognized the role of unhealthy foods and added a fifth group in the late 1970s. This group consisted of fats, sweets, and alcoholic beverages, which were advised to be consumed in moderation. Although the USDA's food guide, A Pattern for Daily Food Choices, was published annually from the 1980s onwards, it wasn't widely known.

It was in 1988 that the USDA decided to represent the guidelines graphically, emphasizing the importance of variety, proportionality, and moderation. The iconic Food Guide Pyramid was finally released in 1992, providing a visual representation of the guidelines. In 1994, the Nutrition Labeling and Education Act made it mandatory for all grocery items to have a nutritional label. The development of the USDA Food Guide Pyramid has been a journey of continuous improvement and adaptation to the changing needs of the population.

“If we could give every individual the right amount of nourishment and exercise, not too little and not too much, we would have found the safest way to health.” —Hippocrates (Greek physician, 460 –c. 370 BC)

Willett and Stampfer, in their article published in Scientific American in 2003, strongly criticized the traditional food pyramid, labeling it as "grossly flawed." They argued that the pyramid's promotion of all complex carbohydrates while discouraging fats and oils provided misleading guidance. Contrary to popular belief, they asserted that not all fats are detrimental to health, and complex carbohydrates are not universally beneficial.

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Food Pyramid Revisions

In their revised version, they advocated for the consumption of "healthy fats" and the avoidance of refined carbohydrates, butter, and red meat. Their pyramid retained whole-grain foods at the foundation, along with plant-derived oils, many of which are derived from grains like corn, canola, sunflower, and peanut. They cautioned against the use of fats containing trans unsaturated fatty acids, commonly found in partially hydrogenated liquid vegetable oil, which are then used in solid margarines, baked goods, and fried foods.

Nuts and legumes were positioned halfway up their pyramid, highlighting their importance in a balanced diet. On the other hand, foods high in complex carbohydrates such as white rice, white bread, pasta, and potatoes were placed at the top, with a clear recommendation to consume them sparingly.

While the authors did not fully elaborate on the differences in fiber content and resistant starch between whole-grain and refined foods, they did emphasize that limiting total calorie intake is crucial in preventing obesity. They also acknowledged that uncertainties still exist regarding the relationship between diet and health.

In light of their comprehensive analysis and evidence-based approach, it is evident that Willett and Stampfer's revised pyramid offers more accurate and reliable guidance for individuals seeking to make informed dietary choices.

Upon initial inspection, it appeared to be a commendable endeavor, but upon closer examination, it becomes evident that there are ulterior motives and clever marketing tactics at play. One would assume that a reputable health guide of such prominence would be meticulously crafted by esteemed scientists and health professionals. However, the reality is that the Food Pyramid was predominantly shaped by lobbyists and marketing experts, rather than nutritionists and scientists. The involvement of influential players from the food industry resulted in a prioritization of their own products, disregarding the importance of a proper generalized cellular nutrition regime. This is particularly evident in the pyramid's overwhelming emphasis on bread, cereal, rice, and pasta, which can be attributed to the significant influence of the dairy and grain lobbies.

The pyramid's recommendation of a high-carbohydrate, low-fat diet may have seemed like the right approach at the time, but recent research has shed light on the potential risks associated with this type of diet. Emerging studies suggest that a high-refined-carbohydrate, low-fat diet could actually contribute to obesity and health issues such as diabetes. It's concerning that the pyramid downplayed the importance of reducing sugar and grain consumption, while neglecting to emphasize the significance of incorporating nutrient-rich options like vegetables, fruits, and quality proteins.

From "Diet" To Cellular Function

This lack of nuance in cellular nutrition guidelines has been linked to the alarming increase in obesity and diabetes rates in the United States. Fortunately, we are now witnessing a positive shift in dietary recommendations toward a recognition of viewing the cells of the body and often the dysfunctional metabolism they perform on a daily basis.

Thanks to advancements in scientific research and a decrease in influence from food industry lobbyists, evidence-based alternatives like ketogenic diets, intermittent fasting, and plant-based diets are gaining recognition and popularity. These approaches are backed by solid scientific evidence and offer healthier options for individuals seeking to improve their overall well-being. It's time to embrace a more informed and balanced approach to nutrition. By incorporating these evidence-based alternatives into our diets, we can make significant strides towards better health and well-being. Let's prioritize the latest nutritional science and make choices that truly support our long-term health goals.

The impact of low-grade inflammation on our body's balance and the rise of chronic diseases cannot be ignored. In recent years, the surge in noncommunicable diseases has coincided with the increased consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPF). These convenient, affordable, and highly palatable options have already been identified as a risk factor for various chronic illnesses. Numerous research teams have delved into the connection between UPF consumption and the promotion of low-grade inflammation, which in turn contributes to the development of noncommunicable diseases. 

The existing evidence emphasizes the detrimental effects of UPF, not only due to their nutritional content but also because of the non-nutritive components that can impact gut health. This comprehensive review aims to consolidate the available evidence on the potential link between excessive UPF consumption and the modulation of low-grade inflammation, shedding light on their role as potential catalysts for chronic diseases. Source: national institute of health

Enter Systems Cellular Nutrition Based on Ortho-molecular Principles

The truth is that nutrition is far more than the latest diet fad or choosing a non-existent "balanced diet."  If you looked under the microscope and completed some systems nutrition examinations you would find many things the outdated food pyramid preaches.  You would see toxins such as heavy metals, various man-made substances, but also severe imbalances in vitamins, minerals, amino acid proteins and many others.

After all, why do you think countries like Japan maintain healthier populations?

It's not nearly only a healthier diet that they are known to consume.  Places such as this also rely on not only the Westernized medical system, but also various forms of 'traditional medicine' that helps to prevent sickness in the first place.

It's also a better understanding of the bio-chemistry and lifestyle of the human condition inclusive of an indivdualized approach to health called "health care" rather than "sick care" that so many of think is the opposite.

The truth is that in regards to at least fats in the diet, we should be cognizant of what types of fats we need and the types we don't. We receive far too much Omega-6 fatty acids called "arachidonic acid" while receiving far too little Omega-3 fatty acids.

It has been widely reported that the human diet has undergone a significant shift in recent times, particularly in Western societies. This shift has resulted in an alarming disparity between the ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 essential fatty acids (EFA) in our diets compared to the ratio that our ancestors consumed.

While our ancestors maintained a balanced ratio of approximately 1, Western diets now exhibit a ratio ranging from 15/1 to 16.7/1. This significant change in our dietary habits has had detrimental effects on our health. Western diets are now deficient in omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for our well-being, while simultaneously containing excessive amounts of omega-6 fatty acids. Source: National Institute Of Health

Protein Sources

When it comes to increasing our protein intake, it's crucial to make wise choices that promote good cellular health. Luckily, the Mediterranean diet promotes exactly the kind of protein we need – think fish, beans, soy, lean chicken, and turkey – while discouraging excessive consumption of red meat and processed deli meats.  Some of the reasons to avoid heavily processed foods is the additives often present within them including: nitrites, preservatives. Consuming heavily processed foods by themselves has been proven to drastically increase inflammation in the human body and over time contributes to significantly increased risk of various dis-eases.

Moreover, instead of skimping on protein during the day and indulging in a hefty meat portion at dinner, redistributing our protein intake evenly throughout the day allows our bodies to utilize this essential nutrient more efficiently. This approach also helps keep us satisfied, reducing the temptation to reach for sugary treats at 3 p.m.

Carbohydrates & Their Confusion

Dietary carbohydrates are the primary source of energy for our bodies. Traditionally, they have been categorized based on their polymer length, distinguishing between simple and complex carbohydrates. However, this classification does not necessarily indicate their impact on our health. Despite having similar energy efficiency and caloric content, simple sugars like fructose, glucose (both monosaccharides) , and lactose (dissacharides) have distinct metabolic effects.

Consuming them excessively can increase the risk of various chronic diseases. Moreover, recent data suggests that the form and processing level of carbohydrate-rich foods can influence both their energy efficiency and their association with cardio-metabolic risk. To address these factors, several metrics can be proposed to identify carbohydrate-rich food sources and differentiate between those that promote chronic diseases and those that help prevent them. 

Glucose and fructose are the two most commonly found monosaccharides in the human diet. These sugars can be found in fruits, vegetables, honey, and natural syrups like maple syrup. When it comes to disaccharides, the most prevalent ones are sucrose and lactose. Sucrose is a combination of glucose and fructose, commonly found in fruits and vegetables. Lactose, on the other hand, is a combination of glucose and galactose, commonly found in dairy products. Sucrose can also be extracted and refined from sugarcane or sugar beets in large quantities. Additionally, syrups containing glucose and fructose in different proportions can be produced industrially from plants that contain starch. The most widely used syrup in the food industry is high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS), which is predominantly used in the United States.

Carbohydrate energy efficiency refers to the proportion of energy utilized by cells for chemical or mechanical work compared to the energy content of the initial food. Several factors contribute to reducing this ratio and consequently decreasing the energy efficiency of a specific carbohydrate. These factors include incomplete digestion or absorption and the dissipation of energy as heat during the process of thermogenesis.

Glucose, a monosaccharide, does not require digestion and is fully absorbed from the gut through a sodium-glucose cotransporter that necessitates energy. Moreover, blood glucose serves as a primary energy source readily utilized by all cells in the body with minimal energy loss. It only requires a small amount of energy to activate glucose to fructose 1,6 diphosphate before further degradation to CO2 and H2O.

Therefore, glucose is considered as the benchmark in this context. On the other hand, disaccharides such as sucrose and lactose are typically completely digested by gut disaccharidases and absorbed into the bloodstream as glucose, galactose, and fructose. However, a significant portion of the adult population experiences lactase deficiency, leading to incomplete digestion of lactose.

Anti-Nutrients & Toxins & Heavy Metals

There are various antinutrients apart from the ones mentioned earlier. Enzyme inhibitors and certain phenolic compounds fall under this category, and they have the potential to hinder protein digestibility, limit mineral bioavailability, and even disrupt the reproductive performance of experimental animals.

All cereals contain antinutrients called phytic acid and phytates, which can decrease the availability of minerals in our bodies. Additionally, most cereals contain polyphenolic compounds known as tannins. These tannins have the ability to bind to protein, making it less digestible, and they can also hinder the activity of digestive enzymes. While cereals do contain protease inhibitors, their levels are relatively low compared to those found in certain seed legumes.

Fortunately, the tannins and protease inhibitors in cereals are unlikely to have any significant negative effects on human nutrition. However, it's worth noting that pearl millet contains phenolic flavonoids, which have been linked to the development of goitre, a symptom of iodine deficiency.

Our environment is constantly bombarded with heavy metals from various sources such as car exhausts, industrial activity, and technological development. These toxic substances not only contaminate our air, water, and food, but also accumulate in our bodies over time, posing a serious threat to our health.

A diverse range of products, ranging from food items to mobile phones, plastics, cars, and pesticides, contain heavy metals. The accumulation of these metals can have a detrimental impact on our health, resulting in alterations in the structure of cellular DNA and the onset of neurological and cardiovascular diseases, certain types of cancer, and diabetes.

Hence, it is crucial to be mindful of the symptoms of intoxication and remain vigilant for any warning signs. For instance, arsenic poisoning can manifest as fatigue, excessive salivation, headaches, dermatitis, muscle weakness, and hair loss.

Eating a diet rich in whole foods and vegetables can help eliminate harmful heavy metals from our bodies. According to Joana, it is crucial to increase our intake of whole grains, pulses, and vegetables as they contain fiber, which acts as a natural chelator. This fiber helps reduce the availability and absorption of toxins in our system.

Additionally, green leafy vegetables and berries, which are high in vitamin C, play a role in reducing oxidative stress caused by heavy metals. To further support the elimination of heavy metals and alleviate symptoms of poisoning, many sources recommend including brassica vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and turnips, as well as sulfur-rich foods like garlic and onions in our diet.

.. and there are many other factors including bio-flavonoids, organ function and many others.

The Above Are General Guidelines; How Do You Know What YOU Need?

This graph is some of the results we show participants as clients just how imbalances their bodily systems are that are strongly influenced by what goes into their mouths.  How do you know if your organs are functioning correctly? How do you think your organs rebuild themselves off of food, environmental toxins, social drinking and maybe smoking of various substances?

All the organs strive for a synchronicity called "homeostatis" and most of us have imbalances in these organs strongly influenced by also what goes into your mouth. 

Here are some of the primary organ functions we address for an individualized consultation:

Colon Health:

A rare gem indeed is a healthy colon. It's astonishing how many diseases that plague our society can be traced back to a sluggish, underactive colon. This sneaky culprit produces toxic waste that gets reabsorbed into our system, wreaking havoc and contributing to a multitude of ailments. Now, here's the secret to keeping your colon in tip-top shape: hydration and fiber. Yes, my friend, the colon thrives when it's well-hydrated and filled with fiber. It's like a well-oiled machine, eliminating a meal within 12 to 24 hours.

But don't be fooled by a daily bowel movement, it doesn't necessarily mean your colon is functioning at its best. Slow transit time is a common occurrence, after all. Sometimes, constipation can be a stubborn problem that refuses to budge. In such cases, it could be due to an underactive thyroid or pituitary gland. These little powerhouses release hormones that kickstart activity within our cells, promoting growth and repair. Let's face it, colon problems are rampant in our modern world. They're the root cause of many major diseases caused by self-intoxication. That's why the health of our entire digestive tract is of utmost importance to our overall well-being. But here's something interesting to ponder on a psychological level.

Colon problems can be a sign that we're neglecting the messages our physical body is trying to send us. It's like our bowels are under pressure, and we're ignoring the signs. Our self-esteem takes a hit, and we crave validation and reassurance. We yearn to be acknowledged and prioritized. You see, when we haven't felt cared for or important in the past, it can sabotage our ability to meet our own needs and feel good about ourselves in the present. It's like a lingering guilt that holds us back. But fear not, my friend, recognizing this pattern is the first step towards reclaiming your power and embracing self-care.

Causes:

1. Insufficient fiber in the diet 2. Excessive consumption of processed foods, sugars, and flour (especially wheat) and gluten 3. Undiagnosed food allergies and sensitivities 4. Deficiency in essential vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin A, C, E, B12, and zinc, which are crucial for epithelial repair 5. Dehydration 6. Imbalance in intestinal flora 7. Diets high in dairy products, including cheese, meats, and eggs that are not hormone or antibiotic free 8. Long-term unresolved stress and anxiety, which can contribute to colon issues 9. Colitis involving hypersensitivity to various situations, foods, viruses, and stress 10. Individuals with Crohn's disease may have an inflamed hypersensitivity to certain foods or viruses, often driven by their desire to do things perfectly.

Insufficient absorption of essential vitamins and minerals can lead to deficiencies in the body. Additionally, high tissue acidosis can further exacerbate the problem. When the colon becomes sluggish, it can result in constipation and slow transit time, allowing toxins and putrefaction to cause harm over an extended period, sometimes even days. It's important to note that consistent slow transit time has been associated with an increased risk of bowel cancer. Maintaining a healthy colon is closely tied to maintaining the right balance of intestinal flora. If the colon becomes clogged, it can lead to an overgrowth of bacteria, which often manifests as Candida albicans or candidiasis.

Typical Recommendations:

Eating a diet rich in fiber and staying hydrated by drinking six to eight glasses of water daily is the ultimate assurance for a healthy colon. In situations where obtaining sufficient fiber solely from food becomes challenging, it is advisable to incorporate a pure fiber supplement like psyllium husk powder or flax seed. These natural remedies work effectively as a bowel normalizer in cases of constipation or diarrhea, but it is crucial to consume them with an ample amount of water.

Liver/Gallbladder: 

The duodenum may not receive sufficient bile if the liver or gallbladder is not functioning optimally. Bile plays a crucial role in breaking down fats into smaller molecules that can be acted upon by pancreatic lipase. Additionally, bile acts as an intestinal lubricant, preventing constipation, and sterilizes bacteria. It is also essential for the absorption of Vitamins A, D, E, and K, as well as essential fatty acids (EFA's). Furthermore, bile aids in the absorption of minerals.  

The liver, known as the body's filtration system, tirelessly works harder as we consume more fats and toxins. It's important to note that an overworked liver is a significant contributor to various ailments in our society. To ensure the production of bile, which aids in digestion, it is crucial to have an adequate intake of vitamin C, magnesium, choline, and zinc. Insufficient bile production can lead to stools that are light in color and float.

Causes:

Causes of liver/gall bladder problems can vary, but some common factors include a diet high in refined carbohydrates, viral hepatitis, and consuming mouldy foods like nuts, peanuts, popcorn, corn chips, dried fruits, and packaged cereals. Smoking, certain medications, and environmental toxins found in household and personal care products can also contribute to these issues. Additionally, overindulging in fatty and junk foods is a prevalent cause. Alcohol, when consumed excessively over a long period, can lead to cirrhosis of the liver. Interestingly, the liver has also been associated with suppressed anger in need of release from a psychological perspective.

References:

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022316622006307

https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/antinutrients