COMMENT: Cricket player turns to nutrition

AS a sports-mad kid growing up in Australia, nutrition was more of an afterthought. 

I thought, “if you’re active, you’re healthy.”  In 2007, I moved to Ireland and began playing cricket for the Irish team. It was then that my attitude towards nutrition started to change.  

By 2008, the Irish team had become mostly professional players, and the importance of nutrition and hydration became a big role in our preparations for games.  

 In 2013, I was struck down with painful sciatica and a bulging disc.  

I was given numerous steroid injections that had little effect. I did some research, and realised how bad my diet was and that I needed a change. I knew I wanted to heal myself naturally.  

Immediately I went on a vegetarian diet and cut out all processed foods. I also started Bikram yoga. 

After the first week I could feel the benefits of the fresh vegetables, fruits and whole foods.  

And thanks to my new diet and exercise routine, I had avoided surgery and was able to return to cricket within four months.  

One year later I decided to start the naturopathic nutrition course at CNM Dublin. I knew first-hand what the effects eating fresh, whole foods can have on your body. 

I am enjoying the course immensely and am starting to gather sound knowledge. I have also influenced my three young kids and other family members to improve their diets and overall lifestyles. 

My goal after graduating is to help others achieve their optimal health and wellbeing as I have, and I’m really looking forward to it.  

•Article courtesy of Alex Cusack, a CNM Naturopathic Nutrition student.

Interested in a career in nutrition? Be inspired by natural therapies to promote health and vitality. For more information visit www.naturopathy.ie