Ever wondered what a nutritionist eats on a daily basis? You’re not alone. Many people are curious about what fuels those who dedicate their lives to understanding and promoting healthy eating. While it’s essential to remember that everyone’s dietary needs and preferences are unique, peeking into a nutritionist’s typical day can provide some valuable insights and ideas for your own meals. Here’s a snapshot of what a typical day looks like for me (a nutritionist!)

Breakfast: The Power of Smoothies

Breakfast is a crucial meal, and for this nutritionist, it’s all about smoothies for me. For the past seven or eight years, smoothies have been a staple. The recipe is simple yet packed with nutrients:

• Frozen berries for a burst of antioxidants.
• Chia seeds and protein powder for a protein boost.
• Organic sprouted brown rice protein is the current favorite, though this can vary.
• Plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk.
• Baby spinach or sometimes kale for an extra dose of greens.

To add variety and enhance fibre content, the nutritionist sometimes swaps half the chia seeds with other nuts or seeds like sesame seeds, almonds, or cashews.

Mid-Morning: Coffee Time

A couple of hours after breakfast, it’s time for a strong coffee with oat milk. Sometimes, depending on the physical activity level, a small piece of homemade gluten-free toast is added to keep energy levels stable until lunch.

Lunch: Salad and Protein

Lunch is where flexibility comes into play. The go-to option is a hearty salad:

• Mixed greens like lettuce and spinach.
• Vegetables such as cucumber, capsicum, beetroot, and carrot.
• Protein from a small tin of tuna and half a tin of legumes (chickpeas, lentils, or beans).
• Healthy fats from a tablespoon of good-quality mayonnaise.
• Flavor from everything bagel seasoning.

If leftovers are available, they might be the first choice. When there’s no time for salad preparation, eggs on toast with some baby spinach or baked beans serve as a reliable backup.

Afternoon Snack: Light and Easy

The afternoon snack varies based on the day’s activities. My options include:

• Soy yogurt with a bit of muesli.
• Fresh fruit like a banana.

Dinner: Simple and Nutritious

Dinner is planned and prepped ahead of time, focusing on simplicity and nutrition. Here are some typical dinner options:

• Chicken and veggies with a honey mustard or miso-based dressing.
• Veggie stir-fry with tofu (for the adults) or eggs (for the kids), featuring a variety of vegetables like zucchini, broccoli, carrot, and capsicum.
• Prawn and edamame rice, a favorite in the current rotation.
• Chicken soup made with bone broth for extra protein.

Occasionally, there are family-friendly meals like tacos made with a mix of minced meat and lentils or homemade pizzas using a wood-fired oven.

Evening: Keeping It Light

Post-dinner, it’s rare for me to snack. Brushing teeth and winding down for the evening helps avoid late-night eating. However, occasional treats like chocolate or ice cream are enjoyed, but they are not regularly stocked at home to avoid overindulgence.

Takeaway

This glimpse into what a nutritionist eats highlights the importance of balance, variety, and planning. Each meal is designed to be nutritious, simple, and adaptable to a busy lifestyle. Remember, these choices work for one person’s lifestyle and preferences; the best diet is one tailored to your own needs and goals. If you’re inspired by these ideas, try incorporating a few into your routine and see how they work for you.

You can always reach out for a 1:1 consult here.