We are all unique, with individual health, nutritional, and lifestyle needs that influence the nutrients our bodies require. As a Registered Nutritional Therapist, I take time to understand each client’s specific needs so that I can support them more effectively in the achieving their health goals.
My passion for nutrition began in my teens when I became vegetarian. I knew it was important to find out how to stay healthy and, the more I learned, the more I came to appreciate just how amazing the human body is. It’s fascinating how many processes are happening in the body all the time and how they all interact. And, what’s more, scientists are always discovering more about how our bodies work.
In 2021, I completed my Master of Science degree in Nutritional Science & Practice enabling me to use my knowledge to help others, like you.
A YOU-Centred Approach
Food: The Ideal Vs Reality
A daily trip to the greengrocers, bakery, butcher and fishmonger for the freshest food; beautifully presented dishes, prepared with the utmost care and great skill – so delicious, so homely, so….. idyllic? Sadly, I know that this lifestyle is simply not realistic for many of us. Therefore, we need consider how more healthful dietary habits will fit real life. We need habits that are practical and manageable if we are to achieve them.
When I work with clients, we agree a strategy that works for them. One that they can realistically apply, without feeling overwhelmed. We break it down into small, achievable steps, reviewing successes and challenges they may face.
My Thoughts on Organics
We often read and hear that organic food is better for us. While it is true that it has health benefits, such as reducing toxins in the diet, the hefty price tag and limited availability means organic food is not accessible to everyone. Organic food may also not keep for as long once you get it home.
As a Nutritional Therapist, I focus on what’s important for my clients – foods and nutrients that support their needs. If buying organic foods is an option, that’s great – if not, we work with what is practicable.
To reduce your pesticide intake, you could try choosing fruit and vegetables grown with less chemicals applied. The Pesticide Action Network UK publishes the “dirty dozen” list, which you can sign-up to receive here.
Whether you choose to buy organic or not, always wash plant foods before you eat them.
While I will make recommendations to support your health based on science, the overall strategy will be based around your lifestyle, dietary preferences, needs and beliefs.
Friendly atmosphere. Client seemed very happy you let her talk.
Student observer
Karen Austin MSc, mBANT, rCNHC
I qualified as a Nutritional Therapist in 2019, before completing my MSc in 2021. This allowed me to join BANT and register with CNHC.
BANT (British Association for Nutrition and Lifestyle Medicine) is the professional body for Registered Nutritional Therapy Practitioners in one-to-one clinical practice. BANT also self-regulates BANT Registered Nutritionists®. BANT promotes the application of nutrition and lifestyle sciences for optimum health, disease prevention and client care.
CNHC is the only independent accredited register for complementary healthcare. It was set up with the support of government to help protect the public. CNHC work to improve the regulation and registration of people working in health and care, with a requirement for registered parties to be suitably qualified and insured.
Both organisations require ongoing learning activities throughout each year to maintain and enhance my expertise.
I am insured through Balens Ltd.
A Few of my Foodie Likes and Dislikes
- White potatoes. Despite the bad press, potatoes contain many beneficial nutrients, are versatile, and are easy to grow and store. Cooked & cooled they provide resistant starch – great food for gut bacteria.
- Leafy green veg. Leafy greens provide many nutrients, including fibre (great for the gut). Note: suddenly increasing your intake by a large amount may cause digestive discomfort!
- Raspberries. This soft fruit is full of anti-oxidants and can be eaten as a snack, included in fruit salads, added to desserts, used as a porridge topper…. yum!
- Eggs. For non-vegans, and those without allergies, eggs are the ultimate convenience food. A nutrition power-house that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways.
- Dark chocolate. Chocolate can be good for us! Good quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa solids) is a great source of magnesium, antioxidants and iron. Enjoy it in small amounts.
- Coconuts. These are one of my biggest food dislikes. They are great for us but I don’t like the smell or texture – yuck!
My Top Tip: Make Friends with Your Freezer
Most fruit and vegetables can be stored in the freezer. This is great if you have a glut of summer veggies in your garden, or have some shop bought items that you are unlikely to use. Many can also be bought frozen – this can be cheaper than buying fresh, and they may contain more nutrients than their ‘fresh’ counterparts.
Even meat and fish can be frozen from fresh, or bought frozen. But take care with fish. It may be sold as ‘fresh’ when it is more than a week old, or it may have even been frozen and thawed. If this has been done you may not be able to freeze it once you get home. It is always worth checking the small print!
Even some bakery and dairy products can be frozen to help you manage your shopping days.
Freezers are also useful for batch cooking. Make a large pan of your favourite pasta sauces, or a large shepherd’s pie and freeze the leftovers. This can be a great help with managing budgets, and provides healthful convenience foods for when you are short on time.