Proper nutrition should be an important component of everyone’s lifestyle. While a healthy diet is crucial for young and growing bodies, it’s also important for everyone else – including people whose systems are weakened from fighting a chronic illness.
Everyone’s body is different, and what one person eats and benefits from could actually be a trigger for another person’s pre-existing health condition. The only way to safely adjust your diet is to seek nutrition counseling from an experienced medical practitioner.
An experienced primary care physician (PCP) can screen you for any pre-existing health conditions and help you in preventing or combatting chronic illness. The best approach to healthcare is to stop illness proactively before it can start, rather than waiting to develop an illness and treating it reactively.
An important part of preventing or managing a chronic illness is through optimum nutrition. Let’s talk about what that entails and how nutrition can benefit your own health.
Should I Switch to Organic Groceries?
Organic foods are relatively expensive as compared to their non-organic counterparts, because they are grown largely without the use of artificial pesticides or fertilizers. However, the benefit of eating these more “wholesome” foods may not be worth the added cost unless your body has an allergy to these unnatural chemicals.
Also, keep in mind that organic food that is imported from other countries do not have to follow the same stringent USDA guidelines as organic foods that are produced here in the U.S. Still, their price point can be just as high as U.S. organics, if not more expensive.
These foods, while more natural, are actually no healthier. They are simply free from (or have lower amounts of) chemicals and pesticide residue. Non-organic fruits and vegetables can simply be washed with water in the kitchen sink to remove the residue, and it is then just as healthy as the organic version.
Should I Avoid Gluten to Be Healthy?
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. Many people are sensitive to gluten, especially those who have celiac disease, so avoiding the consumption of gluten makes all the difference in the world to how they feel. Many restaurants now identify gluten-free foods and vegetarian foods on their menu.
A general practitioner who focuses on personal nutrition can help you determine what type of diet may be beneficial for you. The doctor will also advise you regarding what supplements would be best to take.
Family Doctor Who Focuses on Nutrition
Whether you are considering an organic or a gluten-free diet, always talk to a trusted primary care physician before eliminating foods from your diet or adopting a special dietary regimen. For people who have a chronic illness, it is imperative to seek medical nutrition counseling before adopting any special diet.
Consuming a wide variety of foods is always the best way to receive all of the necessary recommended daily allowance of vitamins and minerals. Our team at the medical offices of Dr. Sham Maghout Juratli offers a full nutritional analysis and understands how chronic illness can affect a person’s body.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Sham, contact us today by calling us at (313) 451-8253 or fill out our easy-to-use appointment request form online, and we can help you enjoy better nutrition and a healthier body!
