METABOLIC HEALTH HAS BECOME A BUZZ PHRASE IN RECENT YEARS BUT WHAT EXACTLY IS IT AND HOW CAN WE IMPROVE OUR OWN?
In the pilot of GemLife’s new lifestyle show Living Proof’s Health Check segment, dietician Carly Barlow carries out a metabolic health check for George Oliver, GemLife Pacific Paradise homeowner, and explains what this increasingly popular approach to nutrition is all about.
Carly, an accredited practicing dietician currently working at the Gold Coast Hospital as well as providing private services, said metabolic health was important to energy levels, weight management and vitality.
“Our metabolism is simply the process of eating food and breaking it down for energy. Each person has their own unique metabolism, which is the way they process the nutritional elements in food,” she said.
“People with poor metabolisms are often overweight, frequently tired, or have hormonal issues. There are often markers before people develop diseases like diabetes. For example, fat around the mid-section as people age, high cholesterol, and blood pressure – all these things can be prevented with good nutrition.”
Carly said that George was already fit and ate healthily but, like many people over-50, wanted to lose some mid-section fat.
“For someone like George, it becomes about finding a balance between having a good social life and enjoying food while still achieving his goals,” she said.
“Food has a hormonal response in the body. Small tweaks to nutritional balance – such as increasing protein and reducing carbs – have an impact over time.”
George said Carly had given him some good ideas which he began implementing straight after the shoot.
“Her recommendations were about making subtle changes instead of wholesale changes. I’ve already lost a few kilos since putting them into action,” he said.
She added that most people know what they should eat but need the accountability that comes with the step of seeking professional advice.
Typically, a dietician will look at a client’s medical history, medication usage, blood tests or scans, weight and body composition, gut symptoms, and energy levels to devise a tailored plan to optimise health and wellbeing, allowing favourite foods to be enjoyed while looking after their bodies.
“A dietician will take the time to explain the reasons behind nutritional recommendations and often it’s the knowing that helps people modify habits.”
George said he was impressed by Carly’s knowledge and approach.
“She’s not preachy and really knows what she’s talking about.”
Carly has also undertaken additional training in gut health, eating disorders, FODMAPS and behaviour change. She previously worked as a Nutritionist at the Gwinganna Health Retreat and is a member of the Australian & New Zealand Obesity Surgery Society (ANZMOSS) and is Vice Convenor of the Dietitians Australia Bariatric Surgery Interest Group.