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Meet Abby VanLuvanee
Abby's journey to becoming a dietician is as unique as her approach to nutrition. With a background in kinesiology and sports science, she brings a holistic perspective to her practice. Her experience ranges from working with elite athletes to everyday individuals seeking to optimize their health and performance.
Breaking Down Diet Myths
One of the central themes of the episode is dispelling common misconceptions about dieting. Abby emphasizes several key points:
- Avoid Restrictive Mindsets: Abby cautions against the polarized thinking often promoted on social media. She advocates for a balanced approach where all foods can fit into a healthy diet when consumed in moderation.
- The Importance of Carbohydrates: Contrary to popular belief, carbs are not the enemy. Abby shares stories of working with Marines who experienced significant energy improvements after reintroducing carbs into their diets.
- Fasted Cardio Fallacy: The episode tackles the myth of fasted cardio, with Abby explaining how proper fueling can lead to better workout performance and overall results.
Key Mindset Shifts for Healthy Eating
Abby highlights several mindset shifts that can lead to a healthier relationship with food:
- Adaptability: Life happens, and nutrition plans need to be flexible. Abby stresses the importance of being open to adjustments and not giving up when faced with setbacks.
- Openness to New Ideas: Nutrition science is constantly evolving. Abby encourages listeners to stay open to new research and be willing to challenge long-held beliefs about food.
- Body Positivity: While working towards health goals, it's crucial to maintain a positive attitude towards your body. Abby discusses the delicate balance between body acceptance and striving for improved health.
Tools for Success
The conversation touches on various tools that can aid in achieving nutrition goals:
- DEXA Scans: Abby explains how DEXA scans can provide valuable insights into body composition, helping to shift focus from weight alone to overall health metrics.
- Trusted Resources: For those looking to educate themselves further, Abby recommends sources like the Journal of International Society of Sports Nutrition and following credible experts on social media.
- Creatine for Health: Abby mentions Creatine for Health as a valuable resource for learning about this beneficial supplement.
The Simplicity of Good Nutrition
Dr. Pelo and Abby agree that while nutrition can seem complex, the fundamentals are often simple. Eating real, whole foods and maintaining a balanced diet are key principles that stand the test of time.
Connect with Abby
For those interested in working with Abby or learning more about her approach to nutrition, you can find her at Simply You Nutrition. Abby also reminds listeners that nutrition counseling is often covered by insurance as a preventative service, making it an accessible option for many.
Conclusion
This episode of Medicine 3.0 serves as a refreshing reminder that achieving optimal health doesn't have to be complicated or restrictive. By adopting a balanced, adaptable approach to nutrition and challenging common diet myths, we can all work towards a healthier relationship with food and our bodies.
Remember, when it comes to nutrition, as Abby puts it, "Every food fits." It's about finding the right balance and approach that works for you.
Key Moments in the Episode
For those who want to dive deeper into specific topics discussed in this episode, here's a timeline of key moments.
- 0:00 - Introduction to Abby VanLuvanee and her background
- 3:58 - Discussion on mindset shifts in nutrition
- 6:46 - The importance of adaptability in diet and lifestyle changes
- 9:02 - Addressing the polarization of diet advice on social media
- 11:55 - The role of carbohydrates in energy and performance
- 14:55 - Debunking the myth of fasted cardio
- 18:52 - Balancing body positivity with health goals
- 22:31 - Using DEXA scans as a tool for understanding body composition
- 24:14 - Recommended resources for nutrition information
- 25:15 - Discussion on creatine as a beneficial supplement
- 26:30 - How to get help from Abby and find her online
- 27:16 - Information about insurance coverage for nutrition counseling