Nutrition

Facts on faeces

Facts on FaecesRead more

Yes, I am doing it…I am going to talk about faeces. The truth is, as a Clinical Nutritionist, I actually spend a lot of time talking about and thinking about this f-word. Believe it or not, our poop is a great communicator. It actually tells us A WHOLE LOT about how our well our body […]

Lupin Lovin’ (and a recipe)

LupinRead more

What in the world is a lupin, you may ask? Lupins are a grain legume/pulse that were first introduced to Australia in the 1960s to assist with crop rotation and to help increase the nitrogen quantity in the soil to improve soil fertility. Lupin has a special bond with Western Australian soils, with 85% of the […]

Budget Bites: Ways with Lentils (Kid-Friendly)

Ways with lentilsRead more

Lentils, to me, are so satisfying! They’re earthy, so fibrous, rich in protein, iron and folate and are a staple in so many cuisines. Lentils are the ultimate food to quickly spice up any dish! Plus, they’re super cheap and filling! So here are some quick ways to use them with minimum fuss… Moroccan inspired lentil […]

Budget Bites: Ways with quinoa

Ways with quinoaRead more

Quinoa is such a versatile grain. It’s gluten free. It’s high protein. It’s easy to cook. It comes in several different colours. It can be dressed up and dressed down. And. So. Much. More. Today, for the budget bites series, we will explore the many different ways quinoa can be incorporated into a meal. I […]

What is the Vagus Nerve and what does it have to do with me?

Vagus NerveRead more

So guys, there is this thing and its called the vagus nerve. What is it to me….you make ask? Why in the world do I need to know about this? Well, what if I told you that you could reduce inflammation with this beauty. What if I told you that could reduce chronic pain…! What […]

Ask Alex: How can I stop sugar cravings?

Stop Sugar CravingsRead more

I have an overwhelming craving for sugar, especially in the afternoons, what can I do to stop this?  Great question. Sugar cravings affect so many of us. They are most likely caused from a diet high in processed foods which is subsequently quite high calorie and has a very low nutrient density. An unbalanced diet, like […]

Strengthening Immunity.

Strengthening ImmunityRead more

Good nutrition is essential for a strong immune system. Strong immunity plays a protective role against seasonal illness such as the common cold, the flu and infections as well as other illnesses such as arthritis; allergies and asthma (sorry for all the alliteration!), all that can all flare up in the cooler months. Here are some […]

Ask Alex: What is acne and what is it telling you?

AcneRead more

What is acne and why is it causing me grief? Acne is localised skin inflammation due to blocked sebaceous glands. It can manifest in many different ways. Some people get small red pimples, while others get to be bigger pus filled cyst-like spots. Acne is choosy but can tell you a whole lot about why […]

Who am I? Why Optima Health? Why trust me?

Optima HealthRead more

WHO AM I? Who am I…? This is actually a really hard question to answer. Simply, I am Alexandra Handreck. Most people call me Alex. I am a sister, a daughter, a niece, a cousin and a friend. I love animals, the colour orange and making salads. I love to cook, I actually enjoy grocery […]

Ask Alex: Sources of Iron and some background on Vitamin D.

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Today’s ‘Ask Alex’ has turned out to be nutrient special as we focus on two of the most important nutrients – iron and vitamin D. My doctor has told me that I need to increase my iron, but don’t eat red meat…how can I do that? Firstly, what is iron used for and why is […]

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