Rachelle Wood

Daily Dietary Rules

(Rachelle) — Sun, 11 May 2014 10:41:00 -0500

Did you attend the Wellness Expo in Moncton last weekend? If so, perhaps you listened into my lecture titled, Eating for Energy – Daily Dietary Rules. As per your request, I’ve decided to create a post lecture blog post to refresh your memory (and cheers to the fan who suggested I do so).

It’s really not normal to live with gas, belching, heartburn or bloating. These common complaints are often fixed pharmaceutically, but changing your dietary habits is another simple solution I’d like to suggest. Good digestion is the key to good health. Period. Infact you are not what you eat, however, you are only what you absorb. Think about it. You can eat all the healthy food in the world, but if you’re suffering from IBD (inflammatory bowel disease) I can guarantee that you’re not digesting and absorbing those nutrients.

Fixing poor digestion is a portion controlled piece of gluten free, dairy free, sugar free cake. (no pun intended). Choose alkalizing foods more often, including green vegetables, seafood and almonds. Avoiding gluten, wheat, dairy, sugar, caffeine, red meat, green peppers, citrus, corn and blueberries are also a savvy solutions to alkalize your body. Check out these other suggestions for improved digestion.

Digestion Rules

1. Chew to a paste, swallow after 20 teeth bites.
2. Drink room temperature fluids away from meals.
3. Chew protein first, and then mix other foods.
4. Pace meal over 20 minutes and slow down your eating.

I’ve helped thousands of Canadians as a Nutritionist for over a decade and weight maintance is my clinical specialty. Primarily because it’s what every woman (and many men) aim to achieve, however improving digestion is always my # 1 concern for clients (and weight is secondary). Regardless if you’re looking to lose weight, gain energy, improve dietary cholesterol levels or manage diabetes; it begins with YOUR daily dietary rules. A skilled Nutritionist can guide you to more energy, less weight, improved digestion and overall better health and wellness by shifting a few unhealthy habits.

So now that you understand the importance of good digestion and alkaline foods, it’s time to summarize my Top daily dietary rules.

Daily Dietary Rules

#7. Plan Meals in Advance
The reality is that as an adult, you are responsible for choosing every morsel of food that goes into your body. Therefore it’s up to you to determine its quality and quantity. Planning ahead creates less food waste, is more cost efficient and those who practice this rule (appose to take-out) tend to eat more health building nutrients throughout the day.

#6. Vary Up Your Vegetables
The second you become bored with vegetables you binge on other food groups. Each week at the grocery store choose one new produce item and Google a recipe for it. Aim to eat vegetables with many flavors, textures, colours and nutrients. Your shopping cart should be full of colorful vegetables.

#5. Drink Fluids Away From Meals
Drinking beverages with meals dilutes the enzymes in our saliva which initially begin the digestion process. Room temperature water is best, and please make it your beverage of choice. Swap the sugary drinks, cow’s milk and carbonated beverages for tepid H2O.

#4. Never Ever Eat Sugar
Within my award winning nutritional consulting practice we refer to refined sugar as, “the other white powder”. It’s highly addictive, acidic, and inflammatory, provides you with a “high” or false energy, and robs your body of nutrients needed to maintain good health. Avoid it at all costs and remember the golden rule, “honey you’re sweet enough”. Sugar has over 40 different names, so read your labels closely.

#3. Eye Your Serving Size
Did you know that you can eat with your hands, meaning, use it to keep your dietary portions in check? A healthy female should aim at Supper/Lunch to eat - 3+ fists of veggies, 1 palm of protein, 1 fist of starches, 1 palm sized fruit, 1 thumb nail of fats and NO DAIRY. Save dairy (or its tasty alternatives) for snack time in-between meals to keep your metabolism burning.

#2. Consume Protein with Each Meal and Snack
Protein is the key to a properly functioning metabolism, which is crucial for energy production and fat burning. It maintains proper blood sugar levels, controls appetite and builds muscle mass. Protein is found in many forms including: nuts, seeds, beans, dairy products, animal flesh and grains. Quality and quantity matter. Choose hormone/antibiotic free animal products, organic nuts/seeds and dried beans.

#1. No Food Past 8pm
This is the #1 rule for all of my clients for many reasons. It gives your digestive system time to finish assimilating nutrients, so that the body can rest, rejuvenate and repair while you sleep. Eating food before bedtime stimulates not only your body, but mind; causing a disturbance in quality sleep. Learning to control your night time munching WILL save your waistline AND your LIFE. Food bingers know this all too well. When you eat the right nutrients during the day you don’t need those extra calories.

Now that you’ve heard my TOP Daily Dietary Rules, I challenge you to create your own. Should you need assistance from a dietary pro I'd be delighted to help! Bookings available in office (PEI or NB) or choose SKYPE session nationwide! info@rachellewood.ca

Book A Home Iridology Party

(Rachelle) — Sun, 06 Apr 2014 16:48:00 -0500

If you’re looking for a unique, FUN activity for your next girls’ night why not host a home Iridology Party with Rachelle? Simply gather a gang of 5-15 people and she’ll travel to YOU! Have your wine, appetizers and girly chats in the living room, while she provides this amazing service individually behind closed, confidential doors. Learn how to build health with a customized reading from nationally award winning practitioner, Rachelle Wood. Readings include health building notes for diet, supplementation and lifestyle modification(s).

A Holistic Iridology reading, iris pattern analysis, is an ancient form of diagnosis first practiced in eastern medicine. Although controversial, this method of looking into the iris has been used for thousands of years to determine pre-existing health problems and determine future issues. Aristotle, Hyppocratus, and Heraclitus have also made interesting observations regarding the iris.

Rachelle studied Holistic Iridology with Dr. David Pessek in Toronto, Ontario in 2005 and has read thousands of eyes since. This model for study focuses on not only medical problems, but also psychological traits to promote healing on a whole level. Readings offer advice to improve health and well-being of the body, mind and spirit. Aside from being an Iridologist, Rachelle is also a Nutritionist, Naturopath and born Intuitive. She has the ability to scan client’s body systems and energy fields to accurately determine current/future health and body issues. Her accuracy rate is astonishing, with success stories being published in self-help books and personal blogs across the world!

Want to learn more about Iridology in the media? It certainly impressed Doctor Oz. http://www.doctoroz.com/videos/miracle-healer-or-fraud-pt- , http://www.gni-international.org/articles/naturopathic-identification-of-a-life-threatening-condition/ , http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H5VawiId4cs

To inquire about hosting an at home Iridology Party throughout the Maritimes contact Rachelle Wood at 506-388-5677 (LOSS) or email info@rachellewood.ca

Mark your calendars, as Rachelle is booking mini readings (first come, first served) from the Gallie Wellness booth at the Moncton Wellness Expo, May 3-4th. She’s also booked to work at the Indian Island band counsel Holistic Health Fair on Wednesday April 9th. Want to request Rachelle to speak, teach or read eyes at your upcoming Health Fair or Workplace Wellness event? Please contact her ASAP to discuss as she'll be traveling aroud the Maritimes on Tour this summer!

Visualize Your Size

(Rachelle) — Sat, 22 Mar 2014 05:16:00 -0500

With how the media portrays women, no wonder female weight loss clients flock to me with unrealistic expectations and unachievable numerical dreams. “I want to fit into my wedding dress again”, many menopausal claim or, “Let’s see if I can reach my pre-baby weight of ___?”, claims another. Are these dreams out of the ordinary? No. Are the achievable? The truth is, not usually.

At my office I spend a lot of time getting to know weight loss clients and the battles they’ve been through to achieve a magic number in past. Like last week a new client shared the fact that for the last 4 years, (as she steadily gained weight), she began cutting all of the sizing tags off of her purchased garments. She simply wasn’t ready to face the reality of growing from the large to the extra large, but when she finally started to hit the Plus Size section she reached out for my help. She didn’t deny how the weight came on, as it was her hormones, thyroid, post baby weight (she’s a grandma), and even her husbands fault for, “making”, her cook traditional meat & potato meals. She put the blame on everyone but herself. So when I asked what her favorite foods were she responded, “ oh you know, I eat chocolates each day at 3pm and sometimes I sneak them before supper and then a few before bed, but it’s the dark chocolate that Dr Oz said is good in that magazine article, which is why it’s ok to eat.” I wish I could say that this is the first time I’ve heard that.

Realistic expectations will drastically improve your weight loss morale and the likelihood of reaching your desired weight. Taking your weight loss in 10 pound increments can help. Set up a reward system for each 10 pounds lost and learn to enjoy the process of building health. I have a dear Moncton client who’d been at the weight battle her entire life. As a recently diagnosed type II diabetic, she’s been down the weight loss path many times before. After 10 pounds lost she decided to purchase a charm bracelet and marks each 10 pounds off with new bling. How cool is that? Not only is she using rewards in a non dietary way, but she’s celebrating her successes with silver (and you know most women love that)! Every time she looks at her arm she sees her successes staying on dietary track, and last week she noted that the bracelet was getting a little loose (but trust me, her jeweler can fix that)!

Last week I had a Skype chat with a weight loss client in central Canada. She’s a newbie and pretty keen to please. Her food log was perfect; she asked quality questions and is dedicated to moving her body more. So far this year she’s lost 20 pounds, so I asked her what THE secret is. She shared some pretty wise words with me. “I accepted who I was with the extra weight on, knowing that it was my own fault and that I was the only one who could change that. I didn’t beat myself up or eat over it. Acceptance fueled my weight loss fire, and it’s also going to keep me going to goal. I called Rachelle for help because she has helped a lot of my family on PEI and they said that her approach is about living, not dieting. It’s working for me because I’m working with it. I log my foods for review, I do the homework assignments and I think before I eat. It’s that simple!”

Can you visualize your size? Meaning, can you accept how you gained the extra weight? Please use that wisdom to take it off sensibly. Weight loss is not a race, slow down to an acceptable pace. Never forget that losing 1 pound is moving in the right direction. Stop wishing your weight off yesterday and aim to control what goes into your body today. Drastic weight loss approaches only result in more weight gain, as depravation is the dietary devil. It plays tricks on you, and eventually you’ll cave. I’m warning every weight loss seeker to digest and absorb these words, “accept yourself at the weight you are today, then use that internal motivation to change it. Losing weight is a dietary battle within, where mind and mouth eat in unison.”

With my 10+ years working as a Nutritionist in the weight loss industry I must admit, acceptance is the REAL secret to less weight. Trust me! Rachelle Wood, RHN, CEO

The Viking Shots - Photo Blog

(Rachelle) — Sat, 22 Feb 2014 07:43:00 -0500

Did you know that the Viking Armageddon Ragnarok takes place today? Yes, it’s the end of the world as we know it. According to Norse mythology this is the day that the Gods fight each other in all 9 worlds. Odin is defeated and then the world begins again. This Saga was published in the 12th century by Icelandic author Snorri Sturluson. In celebration of this epic battle I’ve created photo blog from my Viking helmet adventures in Iceland.ENJOY!

Iceland ownes a very special piece of my heart and soul and that's why I keep traveling back for more. Get in tune with your viking side and add visiting this magical country to your bucket list!

Our Healthy Heart

(Rachelle) — Sun, 09 Feb 2014 16:46:00 -0500

Medically speaking, February is considered Heart Month. It’s also commonly known as the coldest month of the year for those of us in the northern hemisphere. In Chinese medicine the heart is considered the King organ and must keep balanced chi. So this February I’ve decided to heat up my heart with good intentions and more heart centered dietary and lifestyle practices. Care to join in the fun?

A Heart Healing Diet

These days I’m eating primarily vegan, meaning an extremely low cholesterol diet (as animal products are primarily the only source of dietary cholesterol). Yes folks, it’s that easy. To protect your heart simply lay off meats and incorporate more beans, lentils, salmon and mackerel for protein. Soybeans can help to lower cholesterol, so don’t be frightened to add a little GMO free organic soy into your heart healthy diet. The best nuts for your heart are almonds and walnuts. Cook with more garlic, cayenne pepper, turmeric and parsley. And last but not least, reduce your sodium intake for healthy blood pressure levels.

Heart Healthy Supplements

My February vitamin routine includes Natural Factors pharmaceutical grade fish oil. Rich in Omega 3 fats, fish oil protects the cardiovascular system by lowering cholesterol levels. Other heart healthy vitamins include CoenzymeQ10 and Vitamins C and E. The B vitamins are great for managing stress, vitamin B3 (Niacin), has been shown to raise healthy cholesterol levels improving overall ratios.

Heart Healing in Chinese Medicine

According to this ancient medical system bitter is the flavor related to the heart and many of us do not eat enough bitter foods. It’s recommended to eat more bitter melon, olives, dandelion greens, broccoli, cauliflower, brussel sprouts, and bok choy. Coffee, yerba mate, and dark chocolate are bitter foods that have some health benefits, but use sparingly. Bitter foods are believed to promote health by reducing body heat and drying body fluids.

Heart Healing Movement

The best exercise for self love is defiantly yoga. It relaxes body and mind and makes you aware of every muscle, organ and bone in your body. I’m practicing more back bends, heart openers and sun salutations this month! Protecting the cardiovascular system also requires heart pumping aerobic exercise. In the winter time I enjoy walking to work and often take the river route from Moncton to Dieppe. Seeing the water calms my heart, like a true Prince Edward Islander.

Heart Healing Exchange

It’s so much fun working out of a multi-practitioner clinic! Because I’m the newbie, I’ve enjoyed sampling a few services. This week I tried a sound bowel massage. Intrigued? Anya is a German trained practitioner and the entire treatment amazed me from start to finish. I spent most of the appointment lying on my stomach. She would place the vibrating bowels on various body parts, incorporating many of them at once. My entire body harmonized. I could hear the frequency differences within blocked organs and body systems. When I flipped to the front side I decided that it was time to quiet my racing mind and just simply enjoy the sound massage. I slept like a baby that night and awoke with more energy, mental clarity and less anxiety. That was defiantly heart healing!

Heart Healing Lifestyle Practices

Often it's the little things that count. Enjoy these daily heart healthy living tips.
- Wear more red and pink outfits, jewelry, shoes, nail polish, scarves and purses.
- Switch to rose scented candles, bubble bath, lotions and aromatherapy products.
- Sing out loud, straight from the heart. Whether it’s in the shower, or perhaps driving in a car.
- Buckle- Up, it will save your life and is a mini heart hug each time you drive.
- Talk more, human interaction strengthens the heart. Stop paying at the pump, speedy self-serve cash, online banking or doing the drive-thru. Aim to make others smile more often!

Heart Healing ‘Love’ Songs

And because music really speaks to my heart, this month I’ve created playlists with the word love. Here’s a preview of mine. Now time to make yours!

- Look Out for my Love - Neil Young

- Addicted to Love – Robert Palmer

- Love and Happiness – Al Green

-Love in an Elevator – Aerosmith

- Baby I Love Your Way – Peter Frampton

- Tainted Love – Soft Cell

- Or any song by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers

As you can see Heart month doesn’t have to be so cold. Work at de-frosting your February heart by following any (or all!!) of my suggestions. Think with your heart more and head less. Being kind to YOU also takes pressure off the heart. So go buy that red lipstick, prepare almond crusted salmon for supper and end your evening with a rose scented bubble bath followed by heart opening yoga!

More Miso Please

(Rachelle) — Wed, 29 Jan 2014 23:32:00 -0500

One of my New Year’s Resolutions is to eat more magical, gut healing miso. Used in Japanese cooking and favorited by the macrobiotic and vegetarian diets, this fermented soybean paste packs a highly dense nutrient profile. It can add boldness as a soup broth, intensify a salad dressing and it even tastes great as a marinade for roasted veggies. Miso is a highly versatile ingredient for every kitchen.

The choice of adding soy products to your diet is … YOUR DECISION. When I recently adopted a primarily vegetarian/vegan diet, the question “to or not to eat soy”, weighed heavily on me. I’m not a fan of processed “fake meats” (must be my farm upbringing), eating a lot of nuts combined with increased starches can lead to fat cell inflation, and beans 2 meals a day can be, well, … quite gassy.

So after careful consideration I decided to add non GMO organic tofu, tempeh and miso back into my weekly menu. Prior to adopting this new eating style I detested miso, that is, until I learned how to cook it properly. I researched macrobiotic cookbooks, spoke with vegetarian friends, sampled miso based soups at local ethnic restaurants and cooked with it via trial and error. Basically I sucked up my former disgust and decided that it’s good for my health so I better learn to like it. Even Nutritionists have taste bud preferences, and some of us aren’t afraid to admit it.

Fermented foods are all the health rage for good reason. They can boost the good bacteria in your digestive tract, help heal leaky gut and IBS, assist in weight loss, improve skin conditions, and boost immunity. Try adding more of these fermented foods into your daily diet: Kombucha, Sauerkraut, Miso, Tempeh and Kimchi. You can find many sites online that will give you step by step instructions for making most of these sour(ish) foods in your own kitchen. You may also be able to purchase them at local farmers markets, Asian food stores or even at the supermarket (check the health food section or international isle).

Although the benefits of fermented foods are fantastic, I have one other problem. Another dietary confession … I detest vinegar. Even my mother can testify to that. My burgers have always been pickle free, I prefer cabbage steamed and kimchi isn’t yet tasty (though I keep trying it in hopes of acquiring it). So miso made the cut. It has more of a soy flavor and tastes less like vinegar. Small steps, big health benefits!

If you’ve been following my posts, remember that I’ve also been researching and experimenting with the blood type diet. Guess what? My blood boils down to the natural vegetarian, needing more soy foods and should stay away from vinegar (except apple cider that is fermented). More good news for the caffeine fiend in me, my blood type works well with coffee. That was music to my ears as I enjoy the bitter taste as much as the stimulating effects. But don’t worry, I only consume fair trade organic black coffee once a day. Yes, straight up please!

Here’s a tasty beginner miso soup recipe from my kitchen to yours starring 2013's most popular health food, the all mighty KALE!

•    4 cups of organic vegetable broth
•    3 green onions, thinly sliced
•    2 cups kale, thinly chopped
•    2 cups firm non GMO organic tofu, diced
•    4 tablespoons non GMO organic miso paste

Put the vegetable broth in a pot set to medium high heat and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and bring to a simmer. Add in the green onions and kale and cook for about 5 minutes. Add in the tofu and continue to simmer for another 5 minutes. Remove pot from the heat, and then add miso paste. Stir until dissolved and serve immediately. It’s a probiotic win for your skin, gut and digestive tract. YUM!

Do you have a tasty miso soup recipe to share with me? I’m dying to get a little more creative with my new favorite health building culinary ingredient.

Dieters Beware

(Rachelle) — Sat, 11 Jan 2014 22:11:00 -0500

Congratulations readers, you've made it to the 2nd week of January! Reality check, are you keeping up with that fad diet New Years Resolution? Perhaps you're trying Paleo, juice fasts or a raw food diet to quickly shed unwanted pounds. News-flash, none of these dietary approaches are healthy. What they are is nutrient deficient, unsustainable and in my opinion, following them is a big waste of time.

Or maybe you're option #2, the January gym nut. Attending am and pm classes pre/post solo workouts, vowing to quickly fit back into your favorite pair of jeans through excessive sweating. No matter which case the outcome is short lived, as most people quit New Year healthy resolutions by the 3rd week of January.

What if this year you decided to dedicate each day to balanced dietary intake and enjoyable exercise? This means enjoying each and every meal that YOU choose to eat, with the correct portion size and moving your body based on its wants and needs. It's time to listen, really listen and look within. At the end of the day you are the one who decides what you put into your mouth. Please don't put this blame onto anyone else. It takes dietary honesty to take those pounds off the “right” way.

Aside from my personal weight battle (which inspired studies in nutrition at the age of 20) I've counseled in the weight loss industry consecutively since 2003. And I'd like to share the biggest weight loss secret that I've learned along the way. Do you want to know the truth? You must learn to enjoy the process of taking off those unwanted pounds sensibly. Stop putting unrealistic expectations on yourself and make healthy eating a meal to meal dedication.

Don't let a number on the scale determine your mood or outlook for the entire day and (when you're ready) throw that scale away. It's only a reflection of your dietary honesty after all. And when you rid the pressure from over-weighing, you will learn to love that healthy lifestyle based on good nutrition and not the pressure of reaching perfection in "that" magic number.

Please stop comparing your body to superstar athletes, models and celebrities. They account for a very small equation of the world population. They can afford the medical weight loss procedures, plastic surgery, high end diet medications, personal trainers and raw food chefs. They eat very little, take sleeping pills to counteract stimulants and are most likely sick of eating only kale. They hide behind dietary deprivation, diet pill addictions and most likely battle depression. Do you really desire that kind of life?

Do your body a favor and stop reading women's magazines which advertise a new fad diet each week. Turn off the Dr Oz weight loss segments and learn that they are only hype to sell his endorsed supplements. Overweight North Americans are brain washed every second by society, and each year disordered eating numbers rise. It's estimated that in North America 1 in 3 women will suffer from an eating disorder. My clinical observation is far worse. If you count chronic dieting as an eating disorder, let's face it, the ratio would be 1:1 or practically every woman.

Why do we hate our bodies so much and who's pressuring us to be perfect? Healthy reality check # 2, perfection is impossible and the pressure is coming externally. I'm encouraging you to turn on your energy within, and use your head and heart to determine what goes into your mouth. Rather than think cost and convenience at the grocery store, switch the focus to nutrition and local, seasonal eating. It's good for the body, your local economy and mother earth.

When life is overwhelming don't look to food for medication or as a tool for deprivation. Turn a new leaf and learn to love yourself and the dietary decisions you make each day. Honor your intuitive wisdom and allow yourself to break free from perfectionism. As a Nutritionist who specializes in disordered eating, excessive dietary restrictions eventually lead you down the road to binging. This behavior packs on even more pounds, makes you feel miserable and then you repeat this vicious cycle for years.

If you're trying to lose weight in 2014 I have one suggestion for you. Skip the fad diets and work with a professional. Learn why diets have failed you before, and adopt a mind before mouth meal plan. In my practice every body is unique; therefore each client is treated accordingly. A healthy diet is the best life insurance you can buy. Take your dietary choices seriously and learn to enjoy the process of losing weight. Dietary honesty is the real approach to less weight but it takes time, willpower and realistic expectations.

If you need a coach to help I'd be delighted to pave your path. Throughout my career I've authored a 52 week weight loss approach, SeeResults, which Canadians can subscribe to online. The program is written by the eyes of someone losing weight, and was inspired by my personal success of losing 100 pounds and perfected over the years by teaching it thousands of (PEI) Islanders. I'm also available for SKYPE consultations worldwide. For one on one coaching I can be reached in Moncton 506-388-LOSS (5677) and Islanders on PEI can contact my colleague Gail Murphy at 902-892-7546, as I've mentored her to use this written approach with clients.

Please, please, please vow to make 2014 the year you STOP chronic dieting and learn to adopt the principles of dietary honesty. It works long-term ... trust me!

Year in Review 2013

(Rachelle) — Tue, 07 Jan 2014 14:08:00 -0500

It’s time to share some of my favorite practice memories from 2013. I celebrated 8 years in business transitioning from Charlottetown to Moncton. Moving corporate headquarters to Moncton was a proces and not easy to do at times. My entire career on PEI was dedicated to service and I certainly lived life in the fast lane. Prior to July 2013, I operated with waiting lists and by doctor referrals. I enjoyed physical fitness, community involvement and always operated with the cup half full. It seems the busier I was, the better I was. Although exciting, a fast paced lifestyle can only last so long. Eventually the body requires rest and a deserves a break.

The later half of this year I’ve stopped to smell the roses, and often. I walk the long way by the river to and from work. Since moving to Moncton, this relaxed lifestyle has defiantly increased my zen. Jasper (10, all white) and Alaska (7, all black) are completely spoiled with attention and I’ve been living primarily vegan. I've read 50 Shades of Grey, which really impressed my friends. This fall I moved offices and now sit in a well established Dieppe clinic. I’m helping more Monctonians find health through 1 on 1, corporate and group nutritional counseling. My approach comes with 9 years experience, and I can’t thank those Islanders who’ve encouraged mainland friends and family to check out my services.

Rather than do a chronological count of events, I’ve decided to list: Top Practice Memories of 2013

1. Venturing into Travel Tourism and escorting a group of (mostly) Islanders to Iceland for a week. This was a dream come true, as Iceland put a magical spell on me during my first excursion in 2010. I hope to host more trips to Iceland over the years, as it also feels like home to me. Perhaps if you go back a few thousand years it most likely was. I’ve read the Icelandic Sagas and am fascinated with the countries magical ways. North America could learn so much about sustainability, environmentalism and rebuilding a failed economy from this tiny country. For the good of humanity put traveling to it on your bucket list … please!

2. Safely storing over 3000 client files from PEI office. I shed a billion tears while packing them for storage. Looking over client success stories has deeply inspired my next chapter, and the experience of helping so many Islanders with various aliments has enriched my practice more than words can verbalize. No matter where I choose to reside, PEI will be home, and for all my generations. And Moncton clients tease that I speak French with a PEI accent.

3. Moving my solo Moncton practice from Main Street to a multi practitioner bilingual clinic in Dieppe. Every day I go to work it’s a mini French lesson. Gallie Wellness has welcomed my years of clinical experience and 52 week written weight loss approach with open arms. I’m so honored to work with and learn from a dedicated team which includes: naturopaths, osteopath, massage therapists, nutritionists, a life coach, medical intuitive, herbalist and psychologist. Aside from these services the clinic practitioners offer food allergy/hormone testing, blood cell and hair analysis, iridology and hosts a health food store and vitamin shop. I hit a grand slam with this move, and am able to welcome new Moncton clients ASAP!

4. Going back to high school to share my health building story with high school students, on a few separate occasions. Although I’m a seasoned public speaker and educator, it’s hard to entertain a high school students attention span for 30 minutes. Going off the grid I shared a few short stories from my older, unhealthy, obese days (with photos to prove it). Then inspired the students with how I decided to take charge of my disordered eating and attend nutrition school at the age of 20. It was so touching when a few of the students LIKED my facebook page post speaking engagement.

5. Inspiring and mentoring 3 of my best girl friends who have recently started new businesses. I encouraged them to keep deadlines, create marketing plans, apply for funding and often volunteered my time to assist in any way (aside from baby sitting, ha). Love you fine ladies and always believe in your dreams!

6. Hosting the first PEI Catered Cleanse in partnership with Montagues newest restaurant, The JUICEBOX, in October 2013. Its owner, Jana Furness, is one of my best friends (see #5). We first met in 2003 while working at Natures Harvest health food store in Charlottetown. I managed the store and she the juice bar. I always knew that years later she would own her own. She’s also a mother, cares for her community and aims to only support local producers and smart environmental practices. She’s a total gem folks!

So what’s in store for Moncton? I name 2014 the Year of Teaching Monctonians in corporate, group and private settings. A new service offering I recently designed, End Emotional Eating Cleanse, pairs 6 like minded eaters wishing to rid this unhealthy habit with group support. Be on the look out for more Lean & Clean Cleanses each season. I’m taking a little down time to restructure my service offerings and Monctonize them. You’ve requested more groups, evening and Saturday appointments. Et oui, je parle francaise.

For PEI clients the JUICEBOX and I plan to host more Island Catered Cleanses, with our next one close to March break. I’m debating hosting another specialized tour to Iceland, one with more of a spiritual quest. I plan to see PEI clients monthly, but am taking February off traveling because it's terrible driving this season.

Another promise of mine to all of you is to write more about my dietary struggle. I’m working on an ebook which shares success stories from chronic dieters who have ended emotional eating. Why do so many people struggle with dietary addiction yet are offered little support? My practice aims to change that and raise awareness about the dangers of compulsive overeating disorder, food addiction and chronic dieting. The reality is, you don’t have to suffer alone.

I truly appreciate your support and please continue to follow my journey throughout 2014!

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Scared Off Seafood

(Rachelle) — Sun, 15 Dec 2013 10:14:00 -0500

Ok, I have a confession to make. I`ve experimented with a vegan diet the past few months after visiting a live blood cell analyst, Valda Pike, for an in-depth analysis. The consultation included live and layered readings and I was able to view my blood contents swimming around on her computer screen. It was a WOW moment indeed.

The truth is the longer I practice Holistic Nutrition, the more I`m scared off animal products. After 10 years of practice, this is my clinical observation. Growing up on a small fish farm in rural PEI gave me hands on experience with aquaculture practices. Farming is rich in my family history, and my uncles raise dairy/beef cows, grains and chickens 5 minutes away from ours. I spent many childhood days playing with the animals. And once I hit puberty I was sent to the local strawberry farm to pick for $0.25 a box. This rural upbringing has defiantly enriched my nutritional consulting practice.

Most Islanders are following the GMO salmon debate quite closely. Over the years I`ve attended several GMO education sessions hosted by, Islanders Say No to Frankenfish. I believe consumers should be aware if the products we purchase contain genetically modified ingredients. And little PEI is the center of this worldwide debate that will change human nutrition. Should animals be genetically modified for farming and human consumption? Absolutely not.

This month the Canadian government released news that they will allow the commercial development of these GMO salmon eggs. The hatchery is located 25 minutes from my home town in eastern PEI. Aqua Bounty GMO salmon vs. Human Nutrition Health Risks has been a 20 year battle. This American company has aggressively fought to develop GMO salmon for human consumption. The new altered species would grow faster and be sold to commercial suppliers aka: the North American dinner table. The eggs will be hatched in PEI, shipped to Panama and then back to the USA for mass market distributing.

The biggest problem I have with GMO salmon is that manufactures are not legally required to label that it is indeed genetically modified. Infact, North Americans eat many GMO foods each day. Some of the most common crops include: canola, soy, corn, wheat, sugar beets, cotton, zucchini, squash, papaya and alfalfa. These genetically altered crops pose serious health risks and are not the solution to fight world hunger. That involves educating the world to eat differently and switch to a more plant based diet using seasonal, local goods.

If you wish to learn more about GMO foods, educate yourself and try to completely avoid this list.

Stories that assist in scaring me off seafood have flooded social media newsfeeds. About tilapia farming in China and the waste fish are fed; radioactive levels in Pacific Ocean fish, and of course (from my home province) the decision to allow the manufacturing of GMO salmon.

I’ve also noticed stories of sustainability and ethical eating of seafood. Like Iceland business owners who’ve recently launched a new website sourcing sustainable solutions for many issues, including seafood farming and ocean fishing practices. Sobeys have launched a sustainable seafood guide and consumers are able to track certain fish back to the waters it was caught via an online site. For more information on sustainable seafood check out this Top 10 List from David Suzuki.

While experimenting with the vegan diet, here are some non GMO foods to keep on hand.

- Choose fresh pressed olive oil, organic virgin coconut oil, organic grape seed oil,
- Choose organic ancient grains like spelt, buckwheat, oats, rye, teff, amaranth, millet
- Purchase soy products that are NON-GMO only including dairy alternatives, tofu, tempah,
- Purchase organic produce locally. Learn to eat seasonally.
- Purchase non-GMO BPA free canned beans, for protein, from Eden Foods or cook from scratch.

Getting back to that blood test, Valda taught me many interesting facts. My blood type is an A, the natural vegetarian (tho I can handle small amounts of chicken and a few varieties of fish). I avoid red meat and pork and have for years. When you boil down my deepest dietary cravings they include cheese, butter and nuts. Interesting, because all of these foods provide non flesh sources of protein for my vegetarian blood. In nutrition school they taught us that the body craves what it needs. Your body is the most amazing machine (with thoughts and feelings). Never underestimate its power to survive and thrive.

I'm experimenting with blood type meal plans and menus for clients, and of course practicing on those dedicated ones I've worked with for years on PEI. In 2014 I will launch a new blood type diet meal plan template for weight loss clients, which will include meal plans and recipes. Exciting new service offering in the works!

Are you feeling a little scared off seafood too? Please comment and leave your thoughts.

Workplace Challenge NB/PEI for 2014

(Rachelle) — Mon, 09 Dec 2013 23:27:00 -0500

Is your workplace hosting a Biggest Loser style Weight Loss Challenge in 2014? Why not leave the dietary details, weigh-ins and measurements up to us! That's right, gather up the gang and we'll come to your office or host at ours. Rachelle Wood has helped PEI lose over 125 000 pounds with the SeeResults program and is convinced that Gail Murphy will follow in her footsteps! Let us motivate, educate and inspire your staff back to healthy post Christmas holiday in NB or PEI.

Moncton and NB groups please contact Rachelle Wood, RHN 506-388-LOSS (5677)

Charlottetown and PEI groups please contact Gail Murphy, RHN 902-892-SLIM (7546)

Group accountability sessions are hosted at the same time each week and include private weigh-ins with measurements, prizes, bonus recipes, health building discussions and a passionate and knowledgeable Nutritionist to coach your group the entire way. As an added bonus, the staff member who organizes a workplace challenge of 8 or more participants receives a FREE post group follow-up, ($50 value).

The cost for a 30 day Wellness Challenge is $149 (plus tax) per participant with insurance receipts available. New Brunswick group insurance plans often include coverage for this popular service, which means your company health plan may pay the cost. For more information call Rachelle 506-388-LOSS or info@rachellewood.ca.

How to get started

Gather 6-20 competitive co-workers who wish to lose weight and gain health together.
Choose the time and day of week that suits participants schedule best.
Call Rachelle 506-388-LOSS or Gail 902-892-SLIM to reserve group.

At the beginning of each class we privately weigh and measure each participant. Then we lead an entertaining group motivation and education session which includes articles and healthy recipes. We also stay accountable via our secret FB group where we share bonus tips and recipes.

Over the past 8 years Rachelle has taught SeeResults group weight loss challenges across PEI for: Eastern School Board, Department of Veterans Affairs, The Tax Center, Skills PEI, Staff Senior Grey High School, Community of Souris East, The Town of Montague and various Law Firms. References available with request. Now servicing Moncton, NB and Gail Murphy is available to teach PEI challenges!

Healthy employees are more productive, take less sick time and generally easier to be around. Start your New Year right with a healthy health building competition. Your co-workers will thank-you!

What group challengers are saying and achieving at Rachelle Wood Nutrition

“If you're sick of dieting this program is for you. You’ll learn to develop a healthy relationship with food. The recipes are tasty and I can still eat out with my friends. Thanks for teaching me a new way of eating that will build health and prevent disease.” - M.N Charlottetown, PE 11 pounds lost in 6 weeks

“Rachelle’s program was able to accommodate my gluten free diet. She provided many tasty recipes and included class discussions about gluten intolerance. I learned so much and am pleased with my 9 pound loss.” - B.S., PE

“I wish I had a tape recorder for the weekly class meetings. Rachelle is so entertaining, experienced and educated that even after many years of dieting she has taught me new weight loss principles that were easy to incorporate into my daily routine. “M.M Montague, PE lost 8 pounds in 30 Days