I’ve Been Here Before

Last week, when I told people I was struggling with stress and “breaking all the rules,” they were surprised. A couple of them might have laughed a little, thinking, “Yeah, right.”

After all, I’m a nutritionist. Shouldn’t I have it all figured out?

Because of my profession, you might imagine I spend my days scouring farmers markets, that all my meals are Instagram-worthy, and that I never slip up.

Couldn’t be farther from the truth.

I don’t do this job because I’m perfect.

Let me explain with a story from one of my favorite TV shows in the early 2000s, with a few tweaks.

Here’s my version.

A woman is walking down the street and falls into a deep hole. She tries to climb out, but the walls are too steep. She calls for help.

A doctor comes by, writes a prescription, and tosses it into the hole before moving on.

A motivational speaker walks by, hears her cries, and says, “You can do it!” before moving on.

Then a friend comes by. Without hesitation, the friend jumps down into the hole.

The woman says, “Why did you do that? Now we’re both stuck!”

The friend replies, “Yeah, but I’ve been down here before. I know the way out.”

That’s why I do this job.

I know the way out.

I’ve had health struggles and I’ve used nutrition to overcome them. I’ve gone through life’s transitions — entering the workforce, becoming a new mom, navigating menopause — and come out the other side healthier than when I started. I’ve experienced firsthand how much better I feel and function on a whole-food diet. And I don’t miss a thing about how I ate before.

I know the way out.

And I can show you the way, too.

How?

I give clients a solid foundation in nutrition principles so they understand how food behaves in the body and why what they eat contributes to their specific symptoms or struggles. Then I teach them to apply those principles in ways that are realistic, attainable, and sustainable.

Before they know it, the transformation starts, the motivation builds, and the confidence soars.

Here’s what a few clients have said:

“Since working with Tracey, my health has improved significantly, including reduced chronic knee pain and better digestive health!” — S.N., 36

“I have never really cared about my diet and have generally coasted through life eating as little or as much as I chose. My health and well-being have definitely suffered for it, but I finally woke up one day with a compelling desire to change everything. Tracey has helped me do just that by helping me identify clear goals and obtainable objectives. Thanks to her vast knowledge of what foods provide which nutrients and how those nutrients support my well-being, I have stopped craving unhealthy foods, have made healthier food choices, and have started getting excited about preparing healthy meals for myself and my family.” — Liz B., 69

“I had a lot of trouble in the past staying energized throughout my busy day. Tracey was able to work through that and give me tons of options that helped me tremendously. I feel so much better — more than I ever have consistently. I attribute my success this season to her.” — Sydney K., 21, NCAA volleyball player

If you feel stuck in a cycle of eating that’s holding you back, I know the way out.

And soon, you will, too.

Until next time….
Eat Well