Are your programs/testing covered by insurance?

This depends on your individual insurance coverage and company. Some people have successfully used their Health Spending Account to cover partial cost of a program but because everyone’s coverage is different, I am unable to offer direct billing.

If you have Naturopathic coverage, it may be possible for you to get functional testing done through your N.D. and have it covered by insurance.

Will I need to follow a strict diet or count calories/macros?

In short, no! As restriction is not sustainable long term, my goal is for you to still eat foods that taste good, are satiating, and are also supportive of your health goals. It’s often easier than you think to make healthy swaps for things that you already love!

As for counting calories and macros (protein, carbs, fats), we don’t do that here either. The recommendations that I provide will ensure that you are eating enough calories and a proper balance of each of the macronutrients, but there is no need for you to obsessively track in a calorie app or dust off your kitchen scale.

How long will it take to see results?

This will vary person to person due to the unique biochemistry and nutritional needs of your body. However, with a commitment to positive nutritional and lifestyle changes, most people will typically feel a difference in their energy levels within 2 weeks and notice more significant changes related to their main health concerns within 12-16 weeks.

Who is a good candidate for a holistic nutrition program?

Whether you have health concerns that you want to address with a holistic practitioner or just want to learn more about how you can lead a healthier lifestyle, adopting a holistic approach to your diet and lifestyle can positively impact you. As long as you are committed to stepping out of your comfort zone to make positive changes, you are a great candidate for a holistic nutrition program!

If you have a diagnosed health condition, I will ask that you continue to partner with your medical doctor to manage your condition.

I do not work with pregnant women or those with a history of eating disorders as these situations are complex and need specialized medical support.

What is the difference between someone certified in holistic nutrition and a dietician?

Those certified in holistic nutrition hold a certification from an institution (in my case, the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition). They are not only educated in the science behind nutrition, but also how the body systems and their interconnections and how lifestyle factors such as movement, sleep, and stress can impact one’s health. They can work with clients to identify gaps in their nutrition and lifestyle and build a plan that can help the clients work toward feeling their best. Those certified in holistic nutrition cannot diagnose, treat, cure, heal, or prescribe.

Dieticians typically hold a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in dietetics and are registered with and governed by a board (the College of Dieticians of Alberta in Alberta, for example). They are qualified to work with clients to treat medical conditions, such as eating disorders, and typically look at health through the lens of Western medicine.

Both professions are important and can benefit clients in different ways - make sure that you do your research and choose to work with the practitioner that is best for you!