Powerful Lessons That Transformed My Health
Why I Became a Nutritional Therapist
In my very first office job, I remember struggling to keep my eyes open at my desk. By the afternoon, I was so exhausted that I would literally need a power nap just to get through the day.
In my early twenties, I also suffered from chronic acne and constant low energy. I felt sluggish and unhealthy, but at the time I assumed this was “normal” and never connected it to my diet or lifestyle. It wasn’t until I decided to start a family that my passion for health and nutrition truly began.
That decision became a turning point in my life.
A Lightbulb Moment for My Health
As I prepared for pregnancy, I realised that if I wanted to grow and nourish a healthy baby, I needed to think carefully about the nutrients I was giving my body. This was a real lightbulb moment. I began to understand how powerful nutrition could be — not just for my future child, but for my own health too.
During this time, I became the healthiest version of myself that I had ever been. I felt more energetic, my skin cleared, and I felt strong and well prepared for pregnancy. Once I became pregnant, I was constantly aware that my baby was entirely reliant on the nutrients I provided. I was responsible for supporting their growth and development, while also keeping my own body well fuelled for a healthy pregnancy.
When my daughter was born healthy and thriving, I knew I wanted to do everything I could to keep her that way. This experience completely hooked me on the power of nutrition and sparked a deep desire to learn more.
From Passion to Profession
Fast forward through an extensive three-year nutrition course, and the arrival of two more children, and I am now proud to share what I have learned as a qualified Nutritional Therapist.
Family life can be fast-paced and hectic, and good nutrition plays a vital role in helping me keep up. A balanced diet, proper hydration, and nourishing meals allow me to manage family commitments, day-to-day tasks, and support my clients effectively.
One of the most common questions I’m asked when people hear what I do is:
“So… what do you eat?”
So here’s a glimpse into what a typical day of balanced, realistic nutrition looks like for me.
A Typical Day of Nutrition
6:00am
I like to wake up before the rest of the household. This quiet time allows me to organise myself and plan the day ahead. The first thing I do is drink a large glass of filtered water to rehydrate after sleep.
7:30am
Mornings quickly become busy, and realistically, who has time to create a breakfast masterpiece in a buzzing household? Planning is key. When meals aren’t prepared, grab-and-go choices often lead to less balanced options later in the day.
To break my overnight fast, I usually choose overnight oats or porridge topped with berries, seeds, and nut butter. Occasionally, I practise gentle fasting until mid-morning or lunchtime if my body needs a digestive break. During this time, I focus on hydration with water, herbal teas, or a mid-morning smoothie.
10:30am
If my morning includes exercise or client appointments, I opt for high-energy snacks to maintain steady blood sugar levels. This might be a handful of nuts with a banana, or a protein ball — easy, nourishing options paired with plenty of water.
12:30pm
Soup is my go-to lunch during the winter months. It’s an excellent way to pack in nutrients and increase daily vitamin and mineral intake. Roasted tomato and pepper soup is a favourite, but I enjoy experimenting with a wide variety of vegetables to support dietary diversity.
In summer, lunches are usually mixed salads. I aim to add as much colour as possible to my plate to support gut health and overall wellbeing.
3:00pm
Before the school run, I usually have a piece of fruit and a glass of water to keep my energy levels stable until dinner.
5:30pm
I love slow-cooked meals when time allows — they reduce afternoon stress and make batch cooking and freezing portions easy for busy weeks. That said, it’s not always realistic.
I always cook from scratch, as pre-made meals and sauces often contain hidden sugars and additives. Home cooking allows me to control ingredients and prioritise nutrient density. While my family enjoys traditional meals, I often adapt them into more plant-based versions. Family favourites include vegetable bolognese with lentils, lentil and vegetable shepherd’s pie, and bean chilli.
8:30pm
My evening routine usually includes a cup of calming herbal tea, sometimes paired with an orange or a little dark chocolate.
The key to a healthy lifestyle is balance.
My Nutrition Philosophy
I am a huge advocate of a balanced diet and building a positive, sustainable relationship with food. I don’t believe in strict rules or extremes. I would never tell my clients to completely avoid cake, chocolate, or to eat organic foods 100% of the time — that simply isn’t realistic.
My nutritional recommendations are always tailored to each individual’s health needs, lifestyle, and goals. True health comes from making sustainable, balanced changes that support long-term wellbeing — not short-term perfection.