Rethinking Nourishment: More Than Just Nutrition
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As discussions around health and nutrition continue to dominate conversations, many individuals find themselves preoccupied with the science behind what they consume. Holly Blazina, a gut-heart-mind-spirit specialist, emphasizes that the conversation shouldn’t just center on counting calories or tracking vitamins; true nourishment encompasses a more holistic approach.
Reflecting on her childhood summers spent at her aunt and uncle’s expansive garden, Blazina recalls the joy of picking fresh raspberries. While she savored them with cream and sugar, she also recognizes the profound difference in how we view food today. With the lens of Ayurveda, she notes that such combinations may not be optimal, yet the emotional satisfaction they provided was invaluable.
Blazina outlines four essential components to understand nourishment beyond mere dietary concerns:
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Nutrients: While scientific knowledge of nutrition is ever-evolving, she advocates for whole, organic foods and a variety of plant-based options. Overeating, she warns, is a common culprit behind digestive issues.
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Bioavailability: Blazina points out that not all nutrients are easily absorbed by our bodies; for instance, only about 30-35% of calcium from dairy is bioavailable. Therefore, diversifying food sources is crucial.
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Ayurvedic Principles: The combination of specific foods, spices, and preparation methods can significantly enhance nutrient uptake. Traditional practices, which included consuming naturally occurring microbes, are often lost in today’s sanitized food environment.
- Individual Digestion: Recognizing that every person’s digestive capabilities differ, Blazina encourages individuals to explore their unique imbalances and leverage food, rather than jumping straight to supplements, for nourishment.
The state of your nervous system plays a critical role in digestion. Blazina suggests actionable steps, like taking three deep breaths before meals, to shift into a more receptive state, enhancing the overall eating experience.
In line with Mental Health Awareness Month, Blazina invites readers to explore these themes further at the upcoming Wellness Universe’s event, "Mental Health Awareness 2025: Wellbeing For All," on May 10. The event will cover emotional balance, spiritual connection, and practical tools for improved nourishment and stress relief.
In a world that often prioritizes productivity over presence, Blazina’s insights prompt us to consider our relationship with food not just as a physical necessity, but as an integral part of our overall well-being. By consciously choosing to engage with the food we eat—and the broader experience of nourishment—we can transform our health for the better.
For more information or to register for the event, visit Wellness Universe.
Connect with Holly Blazina on The Wellness Universe, and follow her on Facebook and Instagram.