Exploring the Holistic Benefits of Nutritional Consultations: Your Journey Begins Here
By Kelsey Crawford-McIntosh, LMT, CN
Why have a nutritional consult?
I’m a firm believer in staying open to new experiences. One time, I read an article about a doctor who explored the benefits of creating new neural pathways in the brain and how it positively impacts mental health. It’s a fascinating concept, and the article included a story that really stuck with me.
This doctor, who was riding their bike to work every day, encountered a roadblock—literally. Construction on their usual route forced them to take a detour. As a result, they biked down a street they had never traveled before and stumbled upon a charming little French bakery. They decided to stop for an espresso and pastry, and to their surprise, it was the best espresso and pastry they’d ever tasted!
What I love about this story is the reminder that life is full of unexpected treasures, especially when we stay open to change. This moment of discovery would not have happened if the doctor hadn’t been forced to alter their path. It’s a simple but powerful example of how embracing new experiences can lead to wonderful surprises.
Bringing This Open-Minded Approach to Nutrition
As a certified holistic nutritionist, I get to guide people in an inspired and creative way through their journey with food. While I am not a doctor or a registered dietitian, I see my role as a guide—someone who can help you expand your experience with food and discover new ways to nourish yourself.
In my approach, it’s all about meeting you where you are. Together, we’ll explore your goals, likes, dislikes, and overall lifestyle to create a personalized nutrition plan that feels good to you. The goal is to make this process as inspiring and enjoyable as possible, not overwhelming or restrictive.
What You Can Expect from a Nutrition Consultation
A nutrition consultation is much more than just a chat about food. Here’s how a typical session unfolds:
The First Session: Laying the Foundation
The first consultation typically lasts over an hour and a half. This is where I take the time to get to know you better—where you’re coming from, what your nutrition goals are, and what you need to feel supported.
We’ll go through a detailed verbal intake, touching on your food preferences, habits, and lifestyle. I also perform a Chinese diagnosis and a tongue and pulse assessment to deepen my understanding of your body’s unique needs. By the end of this session, I’ll have a clear picture of where you are in your nutrition journey and how I can best guide you.
After our first meeting, I begin working behind the scenes to create a beautifully curated report tailored specifically for you. This report will include:
My observations based on the intake information
My Chinese diagnosis
Seven days of inspiring, delicious recipes
Additional points we discussed during our session
I like to keep things engaging and relatable, so I include visuals to make your plan as clear and enjoyable as possible. You’ll receive both a physical and digital PDF of this report, so you can refer to it at any time.
The Second Session: Strategy and Planning
During your second visit, we’ll dive into the details of your report and start creating a strategy based on your unique needs and preferences. This is where we get more specific about how you can implement the changes and feel confident about your food choices.
The Third Session: Checking In
By the third session, we’ll check in on your progress—what’s working, what isn’t, and how you’re feeling overall. We’ll discuss any adjustments that might be needed and determine whether you’d like to continue with additional sessions for ongoing support.
Why a Nutrition Consultation Could Be Perfect for You
There are so many reasons why a nutrition consultation might be a great fit for you. It’s not just for people struggling with health issues—it’s for anyone looking to get more out of their food experience. Here are a few examples:
Maintaining Your Health: If you already feel great and want to continue feeling your best, a consultation can provide fresh ideas and support for maintaining your health.
Food Allergies: If you’ve recently discovered a food allergy and aren’t sure where to start, I can help guide you through creating a new, allergy-friendly meal plan.
Family Meal Planning: If you have a family with varying food preferences, I can help you create a plan that works for everyone and brings you together at the table.
Exploring Plant-Based Meals: If you’re looking to incorporate more vegetarian or vegan meals into your diet, I can provide tailored guidance.
Budget-Friendly Gourmet: If you love cooking but need to stick to a budget, I’ll help you find ways to create delicious, gourmet meals without breaking the bank.
A Fun and Delicious Journey
As you can see, there are many reasons to consider a nutrition consultation. It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect with yourself and your food in a fun, inspiring way. Whether you're looking to maintain your health, explore new dietary habits, or simply find joy in cooking, a holistic nutrition consultation can be the key to reaching your goals.
I’d love to help you discover the benefits of food in a whole new light—let’s make this journey one that feels as good as it tastes!
Want to book a session with Kelsey?
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