What kinds of people do you work with?
My meal plans are for anyone – new or experienced with integrative and functional nutrition. Whether you are an athlete, have digestive problems, or have a nutrition-related medical diagnosis, I can work with you to create the perfect nutrition therapy plan.
What does 'Ancestral' mean, anyway?
Ancestral means eating the foods your body was designed to use. It also means eating a diet that is nutrient-dense and anti-inflammatory. Briefly, that means quality fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, seafood, eggs, nuts, seeds, and fats. Some may include full-fat dairy or occasional sprouted, soaked legumes. It means not consuming grains, refined sugars, soy, or industrial seed oils. Here’s a visual summary:
What type of diet' do you use?
That depends on you. For example, if you are very active, pregnant, or breast feeding you may require a higher carbohydrate intake. If you have digestive problems we may try a low-FODMAP diet, or other therapeutic diet such as GAPS. My nutrition therapy plans will always have an ancestral basis, which means they usually do not include legumes or dairy. They will rarely include grains, soy, refined sugar, or industrial seed oils.
What do you mean by 'integrative and functional nutrition'?
Integrative nutrition means an approach that considers the whole person (examples include sleep, activity, stress, and social connection). Functional medicine is an approach to health that considers the whole person. It aims to address the root, underlying cause of disease rather than to treat symptoms. It also aims to provide individualized plans instead of template plans based on diagnosis, as in conventional healthcare. I am trained in integrative and functional nutrition through the Integrative and Functional Nutrition Academy, and am a board member of Dietitians in Integrative and Functional Medicine. You can learn more about the integrative, functional approach to nutrition from this video.
Why work with a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist? Aren't you taught to stick to the FDA/USDA guidelines?
Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) are taught to think for themselves, and how to work with individuals. RDNs are trained to critically analyze research, in order to decide the most evidence-based nutrition practices to use. On top of earning an accredited college degree, RDNs spend 1200 internship hours becoming clinicians who know how to translate the science into workable, effective solutions for individuals. Don’t sell yourself short and work with someone who attended a workshop or seminar. Many RDNs now follow an integrative and functional approach to nutrition, and these professionals are a great choice for your investment in your health.
I've seen much less expensive Dietitians online. Why would I work with you?
My approach is not cookie-cutter. You will be working one-on-one with a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who is additionally trained and credentialed in integrative and functional nutrition. I will design a custom plan for you – including specifics of macro-nutrient composition, energy levels, preferences, and the optimal ingredients for YOU. These services cost approximately $200/hour with most RDNs, and you may not even come away from those encounters with a complete meal plan. If you love the idea of getting the experience and expertise of an integrative and functional RD for a great price, then this is your ideal service.
I thought diet's don't work!
It’s true – diets rarely, if ever, result in lasting change. My plans are not a diet. A whole-foods, ancestral lifestyle is a big change for most people. Also, it’s easy to get off on the wrong foot with SO much conflicting nutrition advice around. With me, you can experience how great an integrative and functional approach makes you look and feel. From there, you will be more prepared and equipped to make it your lifestyle!
How closely do I need to follow my program?
In most cases the 80/20 rule applies to nutrition – you get most of the benefit if you eat well MOST of the time. Of course, things will happen when you start one of my programs, such as your local store not stocking an item, going out to dinner, or attending a party. However, if you’re working with me, that means you’re committing to a period of focused dedication. Therefore, while following one of my programs, I recommend you follow it as closely as possible. Your program has been designed just for you, to meet your specific goals. The better you follow your plan, the better your results will be.
Do you Accept Insurance?
I proudly accept the following insurance plans: Anthem Blue Cross of California and Blue Shield of California. I am also accessible through many other plans through my group practice, Empowered Nutrition – learn more HERE.