I’m an Accredited Practicing Dietitian (APD) and nutritionist with over 10 years experience working in private practice, hospital settings, and in the health food industry.
I’ve a big heart passion for helping women prepare for pregnancy and grow a healthy brainy baby!
Nothing has made my soul happier than experiencing the journey of motherhood for myself. All the way from getting my pre-pregnancy bloods done, that first pregnancy test, the growing belly, the climatic birth, and then finally holding my tiny little person in my arms. Oh yes, it’s been my biggest joy, but not without the overwhelm on which nutrients to eat and when (yes, I had these feelings too, even as a dietitian!).
That’s why Pregnancy Nutrition School was born!
I specialise in pre-pregnancy and pregnancy nutrition, and see clients from all over Australia and across the world in my online private practice. I also take a holistic focus on health, and believe sleep, stress, and physical activity are also important to consider when supporting your wellbeing.
I believe women and their baby’s are the heart and future of society. And it’s my goal to support and empower them to live full, healthy, and happy lives through good nutrition before and during pregnancy.
My nutrition philosophy….
- Good nutrition gives you the energy and sparkle to live your best life.
- Nutrition during pregnancy can provide a powerful opportunity to establish healthy eating habits for you and your growing family.
- Nutrition during pregnancy isn’t about being a perfect eater but a better eater.
- Nutrition during pregnancy is about having real foods as your ‘foundation’ and ‘house’, and supplements as your ‘roof’ (not the other way around).
- Evidence-based science and your intuition can be a good mix when it comes to your pregnancy nutrition.
- A nutrition approach that works for someone else, might not be the best approach for you.
- A nutrition approach that works for you before your pregnancy, may not be the best approach for you during your pregnancy.
My food philosophy….
- I encourage an evidenced-based Mediterranean, mostly plant-based approach to eating (the tastiest and most nutritious way to eat!). Do note, however, that it’s adjusted and personalised to accomodate individual and cultural needs/preferences.
- I encourage women to keep an open mind and include organic animal proteins (including eggs, yoghurt, and others) during pregnancy to support higher nutrient demands and/or if indicated (based on medical history, blood tests, and a patient’s intuition and conviction).
- Quality supplements are important during pregnancy, however, nutrients from food is far superior.
- Food and eating is not just about nurturing your body, but your mind and heart too.
- Food is an important part of family, fun, and connection.
My favourite things…
- Dark chocolate and rooibos tea: I can’t go a day without dark chocolate and a warm cup of rooibos tea. They’re a match made in heaven.
- Clean towels and sheets: Nothing feels so good like clean towels and sheets that have been dried crisp by the sun.
- Dancing: I’m definitely not the best of dancers but I love dancing and grooving with my hubby.
- Travel: Learning more about the world by tasting and experiencing new foods and cultures compares to none.
- Photos: Capturing moments with my camera, especially of my little A, is something I can’t stop doing.
- Family: My hubby and little girl are my everything. They are ‘my why’, my reason for being. I love doing life with them!
Qualifications
Bachelor of Science (Nutrition) (Curtin University, Perth)
Postgraduate Diploma in Dietetics (Curtin University, Perth)
Master of Public Health (Global Nutrition) (Victoria University, Melbourne)
ISAK Training Course, Level One Anthropometrist (Curtin University, Perth)
Certificate in Paediatric Nutrition and Dietetics (Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne)
Certificate in Nutrition Therapy for Fertility and Pregnancy (Nutrition Plus, Melbourne)
Professional Memberships
Dietitians Association of Australia (DAA)
