Thrive Fitness

Jun 2011

My Search for Optimum Health

By Leif Let USS

Professional ironman triathlete and ultramarathoner, Brendan Brazier, was recently in Victoria talking to a mixed audience of about 50 people at newly opened "Health Essentials," a health food store located at the corner of Tillicum and Gorge Road. Brendan, who is from Vancouver, is the author of three books that explore the relationship between health, athletic performance and the foods that we eat: The Thrive Diet (2007), Thrive Fitness (2009) and Whole Foods to Thrive (2011). A theme running through all of Brendan's books is that we can make investments in our health and, if athletic, in the efficacy of our recovery after exercise by making wise food choices.

Brendan doesn't use the term "wise food choices," but rather talks about "high net-gain nutrition." Net-gain of food refers to "the energy and usable sustenance we are left with once digestion and assimilation of the nutrients have taken place. Foods with a high net-gain are whole, plant-based, alkaline-forming foods that are nutrient dense and easy to digest... Unfortunately, most commonly consumed foods in the average North American's diet require almost as much energy to assimilate as they provide." Most processed food, as well as "animal-based whole foods - organic, free-range, wild fish - are highly acid-forming and therefore not considered high net-gain."Brendan points out that in addition to feeling fatigue from the consumption of acid-forming foods, "viruses and bacteria thrive in an acidic body."

Those who consume an acidic or low net-gain diet will experience sugar and starch cravings, which further exacerbates the body's acidity and the likelihood of fatigue and disease, while those who consume an alkaline high net-gain diet will experience more constant energy levels without the need for artificial stimulation. For Brendan, however, diet is not the whole story of good health. Athletes and non-athletes alike benefit greatly from a regular program of exercise geared to one's ability, as well as some mechanism for the relief of stress.

So, how long would it take for someone to break out of the cycle of craving for sugar and starch were one to consume an alkaline plant-based diet? It, of course, depends upon where you're starting from, but on average, you could expect to see an abatement of those cravings in as little as two weeks. Nor does your diet have to be "just salads." There are pancake and cereal recipes as well as fruit and smoothies for breakfast; there are soups, salads, dips and crackers for lunch; and pizzas and burgers for supper. It can be absolutely delicious!

There are recipes for high net-gain foods in all three of Brendan's books, although Thrive Fitness focuses more on bars, drinks and gels for sports performance and recovery. All three books are available through the GVPL (Greater Victoria Public Library) as well as at most bookstores. In addition, you can visit Brendan at his website:

 Medical disclaimer: The information contained in this column is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice. One should consult one's physician prior to changes in one's health regime.