Western nutrition explains that overweight is a symptom of overeating more calories than our bodies require for a period of time. And that to lose weight we must under eat fewer calories than our bodies require for a period of time. But if that’s all there is to it, why are 60 per cent of us still overweight? One-size-fits-all diets throw us off balance.

Before I became a Nutritionist, I thought about why I had repeatedly given away my personal authority to fad diets instead of listening to myself. I had been convinced, like most people, that Western nutrition would take care of all of my needs. After all, an abundance of research, money and talent goes into developing diet pills, endless gimmicks and gadgets. Yet, with all the weight-loss books I read, the weight-loss seminars I attended, and the magic weight-loss bullets I bought— I still didn’t know how to attain and maintain my ideal weight .

So you may be asking, why does Cheryl still consider Western Nutrition such an essential component of the permanent weight-loss equation?

Western Nutrition provides us with the knowledge we need to decode the jargon meant to seduce us into purchasing unhealthy foods. It empowers us to maneuver safely through the vast array of choices when shopping, cooking and ordering off menus.

As your guide, I will update this site regularly to cover practical topics and controversial nutritional topics related to weight-loss and health.

TOOL: WHEN THE FIRST NUMBER ON PRODUCE LABEL IS 9 THAT MEANS IT’S CERTIFIED ORGANIC. PURCHASE AND EAT ORGANIC WHENEVER POSSIBLE.

Why Organic?

ORGANIC CERTIFICATION ENSURES THAT FOOD HAS BEEN GROWN AND HANDLED CAREFULLY TO AVOID THE USE OF UNWANTED CHEMICALS, SO PURCHASE ORGANIC YOU’RE GETTING FOOD FREE OF ANTIBIOTICS, GROWTH HORMONES, AND GENETICALLY ENGINEERED PRODUCTS.

What’s more, organic and locally farmed produce is picked when it’s ripe and at its’ peak flavor and nutritional value. Organic food contains more vitamins, minerals, enzymes, antioxidants and micronutrients than conventionally grown produce. Organic soil practices protect our water resources by avoiding nitrogen-leaching fertilizers and polluting chemicals, prevent these chemicals from getting into the air, earth and water.