Nutrition is a key component of health: some diseases are directly related to what we eat. The two major causes of death in industrialized countries – cardiovascular disease and cancer – are linked to the way we eat. Dietary factors are associated with the occurrence of many other common diseases such as diabetes, osteoporosis or obesity, and that “good” nutrition is a key element for “good” health and should be part of healthy lifestyle habits.
For example, atherosclerosis, an arterial disease, sometimes starts early and can be reduced or even reversed by limiting saturated fat acids in the diet. Similarly, one may be genetically predisposed to diabetes but never be affected by the disease if one maintains an acceptable weight. Finally, we know the importance of consuming dietary fiber to reduce the risk of colon cancer.
But beyond the protective role or, conversely, the “at risk” role of certain nutriments, the notion of a better diet guaranteeing better health in the largest sense must be an integral part of education. The role of food itself and dietary behaviours on physical and intellectual performance, on resistance to infections or in the fight against ageing are commonly accepted. But nutrition is not the only guarantee of better health or longer life, it complements regular physical exercise, reduced tobacco and alcohol consumption, stress control, reduced exposure to environmental risks and other factors that improve quality of life.
At the Neuro-Concept Centre, nutrition is an integral part of rehabilitation or athletic training programs. The nutritionist recommends “good dietary practices” for everyone and specific measures for people with neurological conditions or for those who wish to lose a few kilos. The balance, variety and moderation of your diet to improve or stay healthy and develop healthy lifestyle habits. Ask our nutritionist for advice.