Forget everything you think you know about what I do as a nutritionist. Because it’s probably wrong.
In fact – most people have no idea what I actually do.
First of all, I’m not a health coach or a dietitian (I explain the difference here). I’m a nutritionist. Though the title isn’t regulated (anyone can call themselves a nutritionist), I went to nutrition school.
I’m also registered and in good standing with the Canadian Association of Natural Nutrition Practitioners. So you can trust that I’m an actual nutritionist under a regulatory body.
But I realize that you may not understand what I actually do, who I help, when to hire me, or how I work.
So it’s time I clarify any misunderstandings. If you want to improve your health or work with a nutritionist – take a minute to read this article.
WHAT PEOPLE THINK I DO
A nutritionist is more educated than you may think. Many nutritionists focus on lifestyle changes, weight loss, and meal plans. But we are trained to do far more than that, which is where my focus is.
Most of the misconceptions completely undervalue what we can actually do to help you. Here are the most common misconceptions I hear when it comes to the work I do as a nutritionist:
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I only help with weight loss
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I make you count calories, follow a meal plan, and take a pile of supplements
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I give basic, cookie cutter nutrition advice that you can find free on google
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I won’t personalize your advice, listen to your preferences, needs, or goals
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I only need to see you once where I’ll give you exactly what you ask for and not dig any further
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I should be able to get you immediate results, or I suck at what I do and you shouldn’t come back
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I make you eat weird foods like kale chips and cauliflower crust pizza (which are both delicious, by the way!)
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I put people on diets and don’t provide any lifestyle advice, testing, or other tools to help you heal
Do any of these sound like familiar thoughts of yours? If they do, I’d encourage you to keep on reading to get a better idea of what I actually do (hint: it goes way beyond “getting healthy”!).
I personally don’t do any of those things above, it’s just not my belief or style, and nothing that I’ve seen work.
WHAT I ACTUALLY DO
I work in functional nutrition, to be specific. But what does that actually mean?
It means that my goal is to address the root cause of your signs and symptoms. I take a systems based approach, understanding that each process in your body affects another. So I’m always digging deeper and making connections. It also means that I work in partnership with you to address your health because you know your body best!
Here’s what that looks like:
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I work with people who suffer from any number of symptoms. I help uncover the root cause. I ask questions, listen, research, and find connections.
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I provide ongoing support and adjustments. This is needed while we address the root cause. The body has many physiological connections, so the framework needs to be fluid.
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I look at your health history, habits, signs and symptoms, and lifestyle. That’s how I can provide individual advice that’s right for your body – because no two people are alike.
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I believe in ongoing care, because one appointment does not allow us to get the full picture. I take the time to gather information and put connections together. This requires regular follow-ups to ensure continued progress and healing. Addressing the root cause takes time and I’m willing to give it that – but you have to be willing also.
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I take a holistic approach to healing (because your body isn’t built on food alone!) by addressing lifestyle, diet, and fitness. I recommend testing and supplements when needed, but they are always optional.
When we start working together, I will quickly become your new best friend! We’ll talk about your poops and menstrual cycle and I’ll encourage you through the ups and downs. I’m there through consultations, texts and emails the entire time.
Like any other best friend – I truly have your back, no matter how long it takes to find the root cause. I want to see you feeling healthy, happy, energetic, and in control of your body again.
WHEN YOU SHOULD HIRE ME
If you aren’t serious about taking action on your health, you’re not ready. If you’re questioning the investment in your health, you’re not ready either. And if you’re not ready, you won’t get the benefits because you won’t do the work.
Here’s how to know if you’re actually ready:
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You’re tired of fighting against your body (whether digestive, mental, physical, emotional)
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You’re done throwing things at the wall to see what sticks. You want answers and a practitioner that will keep digging until you get results
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You’re suffering. It could be food sensitivities, digestive issues, or mental health. Or maybe a diagnosis (IBS, SIBO, leaky gut), inflammation, or acne.
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You don’t want to manage the symptoms anymore but want to heal and feel amazing
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You’re ready to invest in your health and put in the time and effort it takes to see change
I help people who are ready to take action because they’re done suffering, and together we get results.
WHAT IT’S LIKE TO WORK WITH ME
The number one misunderstanding when it comes to my consultations, is that you may expect to walk out with all the tools, and a meal plan, that will help you reach your goals, like … yesterday.
And while many nutritionists will do that, I don’t. I’ve learned that sets you up to fail. Why? Because you can’t discover the root cause in one session. So any advice before that is just generic – and that’s not what I do.
When it comes to working with me, here’s the process I’ve found works for life-long healing and root cause resolution:
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At your initial consultation we go through your intake form. This is where I gather more details and clarify any areas of uncertainty
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During your second consultation, we look at your food habits. No judging, just information!
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Your third consultation is where we analyze your signs and symptoms and how they impact you
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In your fourth consultation we discuss your first nutrition framework. This includes nutrition, lifestyle, and supplement recommendations. Testing may also be suggested. This stage primes your body to respond to healing the root cause.
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From there we follow-up every 2-4 weeks. This allows me to adjust your program to continue seeing progress. And allows me to watch for potential deficiencies or testing that might be needed. Now your body is ready for the deeper work.
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Here we’ll pivot your program for root cause resolution. Monthly follow-ups help ensure progress and long-term healing. Once we’ve resolved the root cause, you can opt for a follow-up every 6-12 months to make sure your body is still on track.
Do you see why this takes more than one appointment? It’s an intricate process of bringing healing while gathering information and keeping balance.
It’s important to note that I’m a Nutritional Counsellor. Which means I’m covered by many insurance companies. Whereas a health coach or nutritionist is not.
Nutrition and the body are so much more complex then you can imagine. Which is why it’s good to understand how nutritionists are different then a health coach and more useful than google.
When you come to me looking to simply get healthy, I can guarantee you’ll find there’s more to address. But I’m willing to take the time and do the work to get your body back to its healthiest place.
Are you interested in seeing if we’re a good fit? Feel free to book in for a complimentary 15 minute mini consultation where I can explain more about what I do and you can ask me your questions.