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HomeMy WebLinkAboutThe Citizen, 1997-06-11, Page 9THE CITIZEN, WEDNESDAY, JUNE 11,1997 PAGE 9. ■food cyj leal 111 Nutritional eating offers variety of choices By Janice Becker Citizen staff You've just been told by your physician that a member of your family is allergic to wheat, dairy products, eggs or com. How can you possibly feed them nutritionally? The answer is really quite simple when information is obtained about Canada's Food Guide and the numerous alternatives which are available from specialty food stores such as Pandora's Pantry Natural Foods Store in Wingham. When looking to change one's diet, whether for allergy reasons or the urge to improve one’s health, first consideration should be given to Canada's Food Guide, says Sue Mullin, co­ owner of Pandora's. When allergies are discovered, many people see only limitations, says Mullin. If the allergy is to wheat, people believe they have to cut out all baked goods. "What other flour is there?" is a common question heard by Mullin. In her store, the options number at least 24. "Canada's Food Guide has broad horizons within its food groups," says Mullin. "There is ample room for many tastes and needs." For those who are gluten- intolerant, gluten-free types are available while still obtaining the nutritional value of the grain product. In the dairy department, lactose-free products line the shelves and if chemical contaminants are the problem, organic fruits and vegetables can be purchased. Food products free of MSG, artificial colouring and flavours, which may cause reactions in sensitive systems, are another option to consider. However, healthy eating is not just for those forced into the lifestyle because of a dietary problem. Adding good quality, fresh fruits and vegetables could be considered. Mullin also suggests looking for alternatives to the most common meal choices. "White bread is not considered to have much food value." If entering a nutritional food store is a first, ask for advice, says Mullin. Pandora's has a large selection of literature which may be helpful in discovering the cause of one's problem. "The information is from clinical studies which have been well-researched and documented," says Mullin. "It is not just someone's idea of what is good. It comes from medical and naturopathic studies." Mullin also suggests talking to one's physician about dietary changes under consideration. The staff at Pandora's is also very well versed in the products they sell. Though not able to diagnose symptoms, they are able to tell customers about products which have been suggested through research to be beneficial for a specific complaint. "We can tell customers some avenues to explore," says Mullin. Also offered at Pandora's are alternative cleaning products which are environmentally- friendly, health care suitable for sensitive skin and 100 per cent cotton women's hygiene products which substantial reduce the risk of toxic shock syndrome, a problem resulting from the rayon component, says Mullin. For consumers in general, whether shopping at a nature food store or the local grocery store, Mullin says becoming a conscientious buyer by reading labels is smart shopping. "Just because it is in the store does not mean it is safe to eat." One of her most helpful tips was told to her by another source. She says the best method for grocery shopping is to shop peripherally. "It is the quality yet very vital couple came in for a little shopping. Though not paying very close attention to them, their age would have been guessed at mid-60s. They looked healthy, walked with a jaunty stride and appeared full of vim and vigor. After they had left, Mullin said they were in their late 70s, had recently returned from a cruise and between them had never consumed a pharmaceutical in their more than a century and a half of life. Whether they were blessed by good genes, strong constitutions or just very smart eating and health awareness throughout their lives, they could easily be nominated as a poster couple for the nutritional lifestyle. As the baby boom generation nears retirement age and the increasing worry about the state of the country's health care system begin to influence people's choices for healthy eating, Mullin says she believes people are taking a greater interest in looking after their own health. "Consumers are becoming more questioning. They are not waiting for someone else to look after their health and health care Healthy products Mike Cere of Pandora's Pantry Natural Foods Store, Wingham weighs a sampling of bulk products which are available at the outlet along with nutritional and dietary alternatives for the healthy consumer. foods like vegetables, fruits, meats, if you choose, and dairy products which are located on the outside aisles of every grocery store, that are important. The items in the other sections are fillers in convenience packaging." Mullin says it has also been shown that one can eat smaller quantities of good food because it satisfies the body better. When Mullin and partner Beth Fulton took over the operation four years ago, the majority of the customers were over 50, she says. Today, they are beginning to see a younger group frequenting their store. Though the customers may be younger by calendar years, some of her regulars are also very young in action and appearance. While visiting the store, an older, need," she says. iikaiih TIPS (NC)—Health professionals are increasingly giving patients citrus seed extracts for bacterial, fungal and parasitic infections. These extracts are powerful antibiotics, yet they do little harm to the helpful intestinal bacteria so important for strong immunity. Thus they can be used as long as needed to clear up persistent infections. III AI III TIPS (NC)—Garlic’s list of uses continues to grow. Recent European research indicates that in addition to its well- known ability to strengthen immunity and tone the cardiovascular system, garlic helps remove lead and other toxic metals from the body. These metals, common in today’s polluted environment, damage the brain, kidneys and immune system. Information provided by the Canadian Health Food Association. ^2 Health Foods ^2 Health Related Books *2 Great Gift Ideas ^2 Supplements 40 East Street, Goderich 519-524-6651 If you don't have time for complicated skin care "systems, earth Science* For Men will take care of your face, while you shave.... -makes a great Father’s Day Gift Enter our free draw and you could win a men's shaving kit valued at $19.99 222 Josephine Street, Wingham 357-3466 Vincent's Country Market (formerly D & P Meats) across from the Post Office Frozen Foods You cart have the meal you want at the price you will like at the convenience of your own freezer >—/ This week New York Strip Loin *5 4x6oz.$10.50 ? 8or Phone 357-4499 Josephine St., Wingham Drop in and see our country craft line