A Savoury Soul: Jules Galloway
/Today's lovely guest is Jules Galloway, a naturopath and holistic health coach who specialized in gut health. Her mission is to educate and motivate you to explore a variety of foods, help you make small, achievable changes to increase your well-being, and to spread the word that it’s easier than you think to feel awesome again! Without further ado meet this lovely gem...
Tell me a little more about why you became a naturopath? What is your mission?
I became a naturopath after becoming jaded by the limitations of conventional medicine. I had seen close friends and family members suffer the side effects of drugs and medical procedures, and became frustrated that a lot of common health conditions can be easily prevented with diet, exercise, detoxing and a positive mindset. My mission is to teach people that’s it’s easier than you think to live a healthier life.
You specialize in gut health and food intolerance. Can you tell me why you are so passionate about that topic?
I grew up in a family where 2 members had coeliac disease, so I learned all about eating gluten free at an early age. But it wasn’t until much later that I was diagnosed with my own set of food intolerance's! I had always been a sickly person until I straightened out my diet and avoided the foods which were hurting me. Because my health improved so dramatically from this point, I am now passionate about helping others.
What are some of the most common allergens and why should you remove even a small intolerance from your diet?
The most common allergens are gluten, dairy, nuts, eggs and seafood. But you can be allergic or intolerant to just about anything. I’ve seen people who are sensitive to beans, rice, citrus, and even kiwifruit! Even a small intolerance will chip away at your health over a long period of time. You may not notice it or make the connection, but intolerance's can affect your moods, immune system, skin, and digestion, just to name a few.
How has your own health changed over the years? What do different now that you didn’t do then?
I used to eat a lot of processed foods which were nutrient poor. White rice, white pasta, lots of convenience foods, low fat foods, junk foods… I also used to smoke cigarettes and go out to a lot of parties. I quit smoking over a decade ago, I’m not such a wild child anymore, and these days I eat a mostly unprocessed diet, with lots of juices, raw veggies, fruit and smoothies. My health has improved outta sight! Less mood swings, less anxiety, more energy, no candida problems anymore, and a better immune system. Yay!
What is your daily healthy routine? How do you implement self-care into your daily practice?
It goes without saying that I try and eat well all day long, and I make sure I get enough nutrients by adding juices, smoothies and superfoods to my diet. But I also look after myself by exercising regularly. I surf a couple of times per week, do classes at the gym, take my dogs on long walks, and do lots of yoga! I’m also a big fan of chicken soup, a hot bath and an early night if I’m feeling run down. I’ve learned to listen to my body and give it what it needs. And I take the time these days to slow down, smile and be grateful.
What is your go to favorite meal and snacks?
My favorite meal when I’m in a rush is a smoothie. Blend some fruit, dairy free protein powder, almond milk, chia seeds and a handful of greens, and you can power through whatever life throws at you. You can’t beat a quick and easy goats cheese and kale omelet if you’ve got 5 minutes up your sleeve and need a quick protein hit. I love making hearty soups in winter, and big salads in summer. For snacks I keep nuts, seeds and fresh fruit on hand, and sometimes make a batch of bliss balls with nuts, dates, coconut oil and raw cacao. Oh, and I’m hooked on coconut milk yoghurt!
In your words, what is A Savoury Soul?
A Savoury Soul is someone who is not afraid to be adventurous, who is dedicated to making positive changes for their mind and body, and who thinks health and happiness are the most important goals in life.
Jules Galloway is a naturopath, food and wine lover, beginner surfer and recent sea-changer, living just 10 minutes from Byron Bay. She specializes in gluten, dairy and sugar free living, and is dedicated to helping people make the transition to healthy eating.
You can find her on her blog, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram
