I have always been interested in nutrition, but this has snowballed over the past year. One of my mottos is “knowledge is power”. In my thirties, I have come to realize the importance of seizing each opportunity. Take advantage…don’t let them pass you by.
This brings me to October 2009, when Robb Wolf came to CrossFit Toronto to do a nutrition seminar. When this was announced, I was completely giddy and totally stoked, as I had heard so many fabulous reviews in response to his presentations. So without hesitation, I decided to sign-up pronto. As many of you know, the world of science and nutrition is vast. Taking part in this experience was beyond sensational and the content taught was extremely rich. Robb’s charismatic nature and awesome sense of humour were an added bonus as well! There was so much new information to digest (haha), that I can distinctly remember jotting down notes like a “mad woman”, as I wanted to make sure I could create meaning for myself after the day was through. This seminar was super helpful in making me realize that eating food shouldn’t just be about eating food- and that you really have to view it as “fuel for your body.” When you are able to change to this mindset, a clearer picture appears as to what you are really putting in your mouth and how your body is responding!
Spend 1 day with Robb Wolf learning the art and science of performance nutrition. The day will include lecture and theory of performance eating, recovery and optimizing health and longevity. Significant emphasis will be placed on the PRACTICAL implementation of Paleo nutritional concepts to support fat loss, muscle gain and improve athletic performance. Attendees will be exposed to basic pathophysiology related to metabolic diseases such as Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer’s and infertility. Additionally, attendees will receive a mechanistic understanding of autoimmunity and systemic inflammation and how these processes impact performance, health and longevity. A basic science background is helpful but not necessary for this seminar.
My “take-aways” from Robb’s seminar:
- gluten is BAD news- “neolithic foods- where all the problems begin” (they play havoc on your system!)
- insulin modifies EVERYTHING!
- encourage anyone who wants to look, feel and perform better to try eating Paleo for a month to see results! (they will!)
robb wolf’s nutrition seminar
More recently, I attended a nutrition seminar that was put on by Mathieu Lalonde, in Ottawa in March 2010. The focus was very scientific, research-based and intensely intriguing. His knowledge base and educational background surrounding bio-chemistry and nutrition is beyond words. I felt as though I wanted to take his brain and just insert it right into my noggin! (not really…but kinda)
I sat there listening attentively, trying to soak in all I could, literally as if I were a sponge. Mathieu had so much to share, as he moved through his fascinating slide presentation, in exceptional depth. With confidence and assertion, he was able to answer attendee questions in great detail, but also in a way that was simple and clear for all to understand.
Spend a day exploring the science of nutrition with Mathieu Lalonde, Ph.D. The seminar will delve into the dietary factors involved in the development of the metabolic syndrome and autoimmune diseases as well as the science behind paleolithic nutrition, post-workout meals and intermittent fasting. The material will be supplemented with direct references to, and critical analyses of, the primary scientific literature on the subject of nutrition. Participants should leave the event with the knowledge required to eat for optimum health and performance as well as the ability to decipher the primary literature in order to further augment their knowledge of nutrition and defend their nutritional choices.
My “take aways” from Mathieu’s seminar:
- a vivid illustration of “leaky gut”- great visual demonstration (made SO much sense!)
- a strong reminder that we MUST think critically and question research studies (who is the source and what type of study was conducted?)
- a personal explanation of how intermittent fasting works- I may try this sometime soon!?!
mat lalonde – harvard scientist
I would highly recommend attending and listening to both of these speakers if the situation arises in your area. On each occasion, there was SO much to cover in a single day. However, the fantastic reality of it all is that I was able to take away so many key points that offer a tremendous insight on how to be an advocate for your own health and well-being. EMPOWER YOURSELF!!! If you don’t take control…who will?
Lastly, I will leave you with a couple quick breakfast ideas sent to me by both gentlemen…
Robb’s Quick Breakfast Curry
- 1/4-1/2 can of coconut milk
- 1/2 pound grass-fed ground beef
- veggies (assorted)
- curry powder and garam masala to taste
Everything goes in a pot, cover and cook for 5-10 minutes. EAT with a dark shirt to hide curry stains!!!
Mathieu’s Mango Shake
I make the shake below when I feel like I need to fill the tank (usually once per month depending on the training).
- 1 1/2 cups of frozen mango chunks
- 1 can of coconut milk
- orange juice
Combine the mango and coconut milk in a blender until smooth. Add orange juice to adjust texture. Enjoy!
A special thank you to both Robb Wolf and Mathieu Lalonde for your insights and contributions!
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