How Studying Nutrition Transformed My Business

How did you balance studying with other commitments?

It was a huge commitment, and there were definitely times when balancing it all felt overwhelming. Running a business, raising a family and studying, especially during assignments, exam and clinic work, was a real challenge. I had to be very organised and often had to let go of perfection and do my best. I was lucky that I had a very good friend on the course with me and we supported each other. It taught me a great deal about boundaries, time management, and asking for help when I needed it. Looking back, it was intense, but fascinating and incredibly rewarding.

What surprised you most during your studies?

What surprised me most was just how individualised everything really is. The overriding message throughout the course was that each person and every case is entirely unique. It challenged the idea that there’s a one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition or health. I realised how much nuance there is, and that proper support means looking at the whole person- their lifestyle, history, mindset, and environment, not just applying general rules or guidelines. It really shifted how I think about health and how I work with others.

How has your training influenced the way you now think about health?

I realised that food is far more than just fuel. It’s information, it’s communication, and it plays a central role in everything from hormone balance and mood to immune resilience and ageing well. I think of good nutrition in terms of nourishment. It also taught me the importance of lifestyle alongside nutrition for creating optimal health. You can have great nutrition, but you also need to ensure that you prioritise lifestyle factors like sleep, stress, movement and good social connections.

Did studying nutrition lead to any changes in your own health or daily habits?

Yes, it definitely made me more aware of certain things, especially how small shifts can have a significant impact very quickly. I already had a healthy diet before studying nutrition but learning the science behind concepts like blood sugar regulation, nutrient absorption, the gut–brain connection, nutrigenomics, and supporting the gut microbiome really deepened my understanding. It gave me a greater appreciation for how all our systems are interconnected and that we should view the body as a whole, looking for the root cause of issues rather than merely covering up any symptoms with quick-fix solutions or medication.