Some were shared by parents, other dancers, teachers or what we read in magazines. While everyone meant well, many of these recommendations were not always the healthiest. “Don’t eat past 8pm”, “carbs are bad”, “make sure you can fit in your costume". These comments put mental pressure on us as dancers and as individuals (we were just kids at that time). So many friends, including myself, struggled with food choices and not being kind to our bodies. It took years to be able to love the body I was in, give my body what it needed, and truly understand that food is here to help and not hurt.

It was also during this time where my interest in nutrition grew. I found it hard to perform without enough fuel but it was also challenging at times to understand what sources would best support my performance.

During my first sports nutrition internship, I witnessed the differences in the performance and health status of athletes who were eating enough for training and recovery. I also noticed the impact of diet culture and how it can manifest into restrictive eating behaviors that significantly increase recurring injuries, negatively impact reproductive health and can lead to the diagnosis of eating disorders. Eating disorders are complicated and there is not just one diagnosis. Messages about how we “should look” or how we “should eat” can come from our immediate environment (friends, coaches, family, medical professionals, etc.), society (media, social media, professional influences). Unhealthy relationship with food can last a lifetime. During my time in college athletics, it was painful to see how restrictive eating patterns were impacting the health of the athletes I was working with. My passion to help and support active individuals struggling with nutrition and learning how to honor their individual needs, is what propelled me into this field. After my first sports nutrition role at UCLA Athletics, I made it my mission to do everything I could to help individuals adopt healthy relationships with food, body and movement. You only have one body. We work together on being able to respect your body and maintain its health.

My approach focuses on food as fuel. It is individualized to make sure recommendations meet with your level of activity, lifestyle and budget; all while honoring you and your body.

In my private practice, I consult with families, adolescent athletes, NCAA Division 1 student-athletes, olympic athletes and active individuals as a team or one-on-one basis. I provide education through online & in-person fitness programs and organizations. I also work as an eating disorder dietitian at UCLA Health Santa Monica.