“I am a psychologist in private practice and it is very important to me that my clients have the best care with other health care professionals. For that reason Health Stand Nutrition is my only source for exceptional Dietitians. Andrea and her team provide highly knowledgeable, compassionate, and real world support to my clients who require assistance with food lifestyle. I trust my clients to them and you would be in excellent hands making them part of your health care team.”

Adele Fox, Psychologist

“I can’t recommend my dietitian enough. She was recommended to me by Anne Marie, another nutritionist at Health Stand, and I’m so grateful I found her. Working with her has truly been life-changing. Unlike any nutritionist I’ve seen before, she really took the time to understand my relationship with food, the social pressures around it, and how these beliefs are shaped by culture. Her approach wasn’t just about nutrition—it was about healing, unlearning, and rebuilding in a way that felt personal, supportive, and empowering.

What stood out most was how she challenged my perspectives in a way that felt safe and constructive. As she got to know me, she recognized that what I really needed was a healthier, more balanced relationship with food—one based on joy, gratitude, and sustainability rather than rigid structure or strict rules. Her personal approach made all the difference, tailoring her guidance to what actually resonated with me. More than anything, I felt truly cared for. She created a space where I felt understood, supported, and never alone in the process. Her insight into how societal expectations, social media, and feminism shape our relationships with food and body image made our work together even more impactful.

I’m so grateful for her support and the lasting impact she’s had on my life.”

– Shayna May

“I am a family physician who sees patients with a myriad of eating concerns – from wanting to know how to plan healthy meals for active families, to weight loss, to eating disorders, and so on. I cannot recommend the Health Stand team highly enough. I have worked with (and been to!) other Dieticians in the past and too often find that they just ask for food logs and make suggestions that are easily obtained online or in books. The Dieticians at Health Stand offer much more than just telling clients what they “should be eating.” In contrast, the team really does more of a counselling practice, and they work hard to help their clients learn more about why their eating habits may be off track and not optimal for them, as well as helping people to effect change at a deep level that, most importantly, is sustainable for lifetime health.”

Dr. Deb Putnam, Family Physician

“It was life changing information. My dietitian identified nutrition problems from a physiological and psychological perspective and gave evidence-based solutions. She is also actively upgrading her knowledge to better understand the topic of nutrition. She is a great pick for somebody who is actively looking to change and improve their eating habits for a healthier life.”

– Jay See

“I could not be more pleased. As a first-time user of nutritional services with a Registered Dietitian, I was unsure what to expect. After reading many great reviews on my insurance provider’s site, I chose Health Stand Nutrition, who matched me with my dietitian based on my goals.

After just four sessions, I’m already seeing real progress toward my objectives and feeling better than I have in years. My dietitian’s calm, practical approach and expert advice have been essential to my success. I’ve learned a lot about nutrition and my own habits, and I now feel much more in control. I’m enjoying healthy foods that boost my energy and am making excellent progress toward my weight goals. We’re now focusing on long-term sustainability.

If you’re serious about improving your eating habits and overall health, I definitely recommend Health Stand!”

– Jim Downie

“My dietitian was very pleasant and easy to talk to. Being a 62 year old that in the last year has put on a few pounds, I made the decision to talk to a dietitian. Best thing I could have done. This is when I met my dietitian through health stand nutrition. She has taught me ways to deal with those after supper cravings, how it is very important to have carbs for brain health. I highly recommend speaking with my dietitian or someone else from Health Stand Nutrition with eating issues. I feel like I can now control my eating and even with a bad day I know I can get back on track. My dietitian has given me tools, I can’t thank you enough 💕”

⁃ Cheryl Johnson

“I cannot recommend my dietitian and the team at Health Stand Nutrition Consulting highly enough. Deciding to work with a dietitian was the best health decision I have made, and my dietitian truly exceeded all expectations.

Unlike generic programs or generalized dieticians, she took the time to deeply understand my lifestyle, health history, and, most importantly, my goals. The approach was incredibly personalized, focusing not just on my diet but on sustainable habits with food and my other health issues. There was never any restrictive or judgmental language, only thoughtful guidance.

Within 6 weeks, I saw tangible results, including improved energy, better sleep, and successful management of my overall health. I am confident in making food choices that support my long-term well-being.

My dietitian is an exceptional communicator, very patient, encouraging, and always thinking of new ways to help me. If you’re seeking an expert who offers true partnership and sustainable change, look no further. Thank you for changing my relationship with my health for the better!”

– Angie Babcock

“Some of the best money I’ve ever spent.

The intake interview matched me with an excellent fit. My dietitian was wonderful, met me where I was at, and provided excellent guidance and amazing support. So grateful to Health Stand Nutrition for their help.”

– Lauren Lautner

“My dietitian has helped me a great deal with not only changing the way I eat, but also how I look at food and dieting. She really helped to dismantle years of beliefs in diets, misinformation on food and nutrition, and the importance of self worth. She provided me with right information on food nutrition based off of research studies and her expertise. I have more freedom with eating now than I ever did, and I also eat more healthy than I ever did.

Best decision I made for myself and my health was to consult with a registered dietician, someone who has a degree in the field, rather than random diets I’ve come across the internet. My only regret was not doing this sooner and wasting time and money on fad diets that left me hungry and nutritionally depleted. I highly recommend Health Stand Nutrition. One of the best investments I’ve done for myself. Thanks to my dietitian for changing my relationship with food.”

– Michelle Maurage

“I worked with Health Stand Nutrition for support with IBS management and am so grateful that I did. My dietitian helped me to get a better understanding of how food can better support my digestion and also made it possible for me to re-incorporate many foods I love but had cut out in an effort to improve my symptoms. She also encouraged me to connect with other allied health professionals to get diagnostic clarity on other potential causes for my symptoms, giving me an additional layer of treatment (and relief) that had been overlooked by my physician. In addition to being knowledgable and kind, my dietitian went above and beyond in offering notes, evidence-supported resources, and helping me navigate a new diagnosis over the course of our work. I will absolutely reconnect if I need additional support in the future, and highly recommend connecting with Health Stand if you are trying to sort through lots of contradictory messaging about what will and will not help your digestive concerns.”

Bevan

“I am extremely excited to write a review for Health Stand and my dietitian (our Health Guru). From the Initial contact, to having the sessions with my dietitian, was quite seamless. My wife and I had five sessions and each built on to the previous one. I was amazed at how our dietitian could always detect a question coming and would always give a solid knowledgeable answer in return. She is very positive, upbeat, patient and easy to talk with. The follow up notes were a surprise to me after the first session, as I realized that her work in the session was only partially completed and she still had to bundle it all together for us to grasp the concepts.

The knowledge that we have gained is truly priceless and will be part of our living for the future. My only real regret is that I did not spend the money and do this years ago!! Highly… Highly recommend Health Stand Nutritional Consulting and my dietitian (or any of the Consultants), as this is truly a great company and equally good people.”

Andrew Lipinski

“When I first came to see my Dietitian, I was stuck inside my head and definitely feeling a post binge hangover. This was not an unusual feeling. The box inside my mind had some pretty stringent rules and a vision of the perfect me. It was a roller coaster ride of high’s and low’s. Eating “clean”, obsessing over ingredients to “slipping up” and demolishing whatever was in the pantry. My life depended on a good eating day or bad eating day. Throughout our sessions, my Dietitian helped me navigate through the voices to a place of self-compassion. A truly soulful way of not only eating but living. Today I have invaluable tools that will be there for the rest of my life.”

Sam K.

“My dietitian was knowledgeable and very accommodating to my needs. I had learned so much from our sessions. She took the time to listen to my concerns, understand my challenges, and provide actionable advice that felt achievable rather than overwhelming. Her knowledge and expertise are evident, but what truly impressed me was her supportive and encouraging approach.

I saw noticeable improvements in my energy levels, digestion, and overall health within weeks of implementing her recommendations. The meal ideas were delicious, and I never felt deprived or restricted.”

Mai Nguyen

“I’ve struggled with a lot of eating problems, misinformation, fad diets, expectations ect… my entire life, and for years I thought I could figure it all out on my own and got no where productive. But my dietician, was an angel. So knowledgeable and patient, kind, funny, relatable, understanding and encouraging. She has genuinely changed my life for the better. And if anyone is considering this business or these people I recommend them with my entire heart and soul. 10 stars. Thank you!”

– Devon Crewe

“We have used Health Stand at two different times for two different family members and they have been excellent. The online sessions are extremely convenient and their app keeps all the follow up notes in one place. Their advice is very practical and they encourage the inclusion of soulful foods, making it easy to follow and not feel too restricted. Highly recommend Health Stand for sound, scientific and practical advice! I also appreciated their flexible billing options and their receipts were accepted by our insurance.”

Hanna and Richard Janzen

“I highly recommend Health Stand Nutrition. First and foremost, my dietitian made me feel safe. She’s the first person to actually listen to what was going on, and not only provide amazing help and advice, she gave me empathy. I have Endometriosis, IBS and Fibromyalgia. She took care in providing help and relief in all areas. If you’re looking for help with nutrition for any reason, Health Stand Nutrition is where you need to go.”

– Veronica Sutherland

“My dietitian was fantastic at working with us on our family dietary needs. She balanced my fitness nutrition goals, my wife’s different nutrition goals, and our kids. It all worked into a menu plan that met all of our needs without making 4 meals every night. We generated with our dietitian’s help a 4-week rotating menu plan, standard grocery shopping lists, and freezer emergency options when we aren’t feeling like the menu plan that night. We’ve already noticed less time is spent thinking about what to make for dinner and just following the plan.”

– Austin Muir

“My dietitian truly helped me in more ways than I could’ve imagined. Food is always a hard topic that many people shy away from, including me. But my dietitian made me feel comfortable and extremely confident in what she taught me. I went from being unable to nourish my body due to medical complications and am now unrecognizable. She has taught me to listen to my body and to find what works best for me because, at the end of the day, everyone is different and has different needs. I could go on and on, but truly, my dietitian taught me to love myself just the way I am, and I will be forever grateful to her and all of the incredible people who work at Health Stand.”

– Elizabeth Morris

“My Dietitian did a great job of understanding the way I work and providing insightful comments for ways of rethinking food, preparation and planning. She was a great listener and extremely easy to open up to (very approachable). I really enjoyed how we managed to change habits, set a strong baseline with good food preparation and planning, and providing a different perspective on nutrition seemingly without trying. I now feel I have a great system in place that I can build from. I think I came in expecting to be told that in order to get to my goals, I should do x, y and z – and follow a, b and c meal plans or e.g. don’t eat after 9pm / stop eating bread etc. i.e. a more prescriptive approach. Instead what we did was to look at my relationship with food, using the way I think, and a few simple mindset changes – a hugely more effective process.” 

David Pickup

“My dietitian has been incredible to work with. From the beginning, she truly listened, not just to my goals, but to my concerns, challenges, and our needs as a family. She consistently brainstormed ideas and practical solutions with me, helping us find ways to make healthy eating feel sustainable and realistic rather than restrictive.

She shared thoughtful tips and strategies that fit into real life, and she helped me let go of a lot of negative, all-or-nothing thinking around food and diet culture. Her approach made healthy eating feel like a lifestyle, not a temporary plan.

She is warm, easy to talk to, and I always felt heard and supported. I’m so grateful for her guidance and would highly recommend her to anyone looking for compassionate, realistic, and positive nutrition support.”

– Nicole Bell

“Health Stand Nutrition helped me change my approach to food. Meeting with my dietitian for 4 sessions via Zoom was a welcome option as I recover and go through treatment for a medical condition. My dietitian was empathetic and very knowledgeable! She really listened and ensured she was understanding what I was saying.

She taught me how to eat consciously, and without guilt. I came away with a better understanding and plan to add more protein, approach food as nourishment and be kinder to myself. This was a huge revelation for me. Still a work in progress but overall I feel less restricted and happier.”

– M.I

“Both of my dietitians were absolutely fantastic and extremely knowledgeable of eating disorders and nutrition. I worked with one many years ago as I worked through very bad anorexia and am currently working with another for similar struggles.

This is a journey that is up and down and Health Stand has consistently been there for me.

My former dietitian is energetic, kind and knew when to challenge and encourage me, and my current dietitian is so compassionate, understanding and consistently supportive and knows when to both encourage and challenge my thoughts and beliefs.

I will forever be grateful for the support and guidance I have had and am currently getting at Health Stand.”

– Emma Mackintosh

“My dietitian was amazing to work with and learn from! She helped so much with learning different tactics and with my overall understanding of nutrition. Everyone was so easy to work with to set up appointments and reschedule when needed!”

– Devon Bishop

“I wanted to learn to eat without guilt, and fill my body’s needs, outside of diet culture. Their approach works for me. Thanks to my dietitian!”

– Lin

“I’ve been working with my dietitian since last July, and the impact on my nutrition and overall well-being has been significant. Through our online sessions, I’ve built sustainable habits and a much stronger foundation of knowledge around food and fueling my body.

I am healthier, more consistent, and more confident in my choices. While I still have more to learn, the changes so far have been truly transformational. I’m very grateful for my dietitian’s guidance and support.”

– Karey Reilly

“5-Star Customer Service Experience

I had such a wonderful experience with the intake team from the Health Stand Nutrition team! From the moment I reached out, she was incredibly friendly, responsive, and genuinely eager to help. Whether it was answering my questions, helping me navigate booking options, or making sure I was connected with the right dietitian, they made the entire process feel effortless.

She goes above and beyond in making sure you feel supported and heard. Even when I had a last-minute change, they handled it with such grace and kindness—it really stood out and made me feel valued as a client.

In a world where great customer service is rare, she is a true gem. Health Stand Nutrition is lucky to have her, and I’m so grateful for the positive and seamless experience she provided!”

Dhruvi Bhatt

“Juno House is a specialist therapy center, specializing in working with Adolescent girls and young women with anxiety-based issues, which include: eating disorders, self-harm, depression, and obsessive-compulsive behaviours.

We partner with the dieticians at Health Stand Nutrition for all of our Eating Disorder client families.  Jana Spindler has gone above and beyond the regular training as a dietician to immerse herself in the emotional world of eating disorders. She is trained in Emotional Focussed Family Therapy and uses it extensively in her work with our families. Jana has also taken the step of completing her Masters in Counselling to add an even deeper level to her work with girls and parents with an Eating Disorder in the family.

The Caregivers United group program will be invaluable for parents who are navigating an eating disorder with their child.  You will learn,  and be challenged to question what you might have understood about eating disorders, and you will be given tools to lean into the emotional world of your child to help them step out of the world of eating disorders.”

Lois Sapsford, MSW, RCSW, | Director at Juno House

“My dietitian is absolutely wonderful. So compassionate, she rides for you and is your cheerleader. She broke things down in a really digestible way, making the homework feel achievable and not overwhelming. I could go on to write a million other positive things about my experience and my dietitian herself,  but there isn’t enough time in the day. Thank you for absolutely everything. We’ll see each other again soon!”

– Jasmine’s Kristine

“I came some time ago for a few nutrition counseling sessions as my blood sugar was a bit high.  I am happy to report that my blood sugar is back to normal as I have made big changes in my choices and portion sizes.  I have lost about 20 lbs. in less than a year and while I still have a ways to go, I am doing well.  Thanks for all of your help!!  I’ll apprise if I think I need any “tune up” sessions with you down the road.”

Denis Gagne

“This is the first time I feel satisfied; my cravings have diminished dramatically, and I have a whole new relationship with food. I am eating guilt-free for the first time in my life. My energy has also dramatically increased and I feel great!”

Rhonda Jenkins

“Working with my dietitian has truly been life changing! My initial intent on signing up with Health Stand Nutrition was to get help losing weight. With my dietitian’s incredible wealth of knowledge, guidance and support, she has taken me on a journey that has transformed my unhealthy views and beliefs into healthy ones and to finally get off that rollercoaster of dieting. While it is a journey and a hard one, I am learning that self acceptance and love will nourish my body and mind and ultimately lead me to a healthy me. It is so devastating the damage that we do to our selves trying to fit an unrealistic mold that someone has arbitrarily decided is the right look. If you are looking to break away from that cycle, I highly recommend Health Stand Nutrition. Everyone that I have dealt with has been fantastic. I wish I could give 100 stars. An absolutely exceptional company!!”

Anne Marie Shutt

“Working with my dietitian has been literally life changing.

I came to Health Stand Nutrition Consulting with heavy anxiety related to blood sugar levels. The anxiety I had related to food became more and more overwhelming as I attempted to navigate nutrition on my own. Information online can be extremely overwhelming, not to mention the food documentaries.

The more I tried to navigate nutrition on my own, the more anxious I became. I was terribly confused to the point I was not able to eat at all. Eating progressively became more and more difficult as everything I was eating would contribute to my anxiety.

I booked four sessions with my dietitian. Where do I even begin.

Firstly, my dietitian is hugely compassionate. She listens well and cares – you can feel that care extended in the sessions. Aside from that, my dietitian is so incredibly knowledgeable in food science and helped me understand that nourishing my body should be an instinctual process. With each session, my confidence gradually grew more and she helped me reestablish my love and relationship with food by providing explanations in terms I could easily understand.

My dietitian is personable in that she encouraged me to eat what I like, including food from my South Asian culture. She taught me to follow my instincts and how to measure signs to look for should there be any reason for concern. She was instrumental in the process of getting me out of my head and back to the present. My dietitian also enthusiastically let me share each stage of my progression with her, cheering each victory on with me – that was amazing! She genuinely was happy I was getting better!

As of today my disordered eating is behind me and my relationship with food has been reestablished –  with greater understanding and confidence than I could ever imagine. I also have very detailed notes from our sessions I often review to reiterate the information she provided. I cannot say enough good things. This has been life changing for me and I can’t thank my dietitian enough. I truly can’t. Some are gifted at what they do, and I firmly stand by she is just that.

I will always be thankful, and should anything come up in the future, I definitely know where to reach out.”

– Aradna Gulati

“Last year I ended up with a condition called “interstitial cystitis”, which is a bladder disease that is affected by eating certain foods (anything with citrus, caffeine, chocolate, tomatoes – really anything that tastes good), and I needed a nutritionalist to get me back on track after experiencing “food freeze”. My dietitian, at Health Stand Nutrition made her best efforts to find out more about my condition before recommending foods for my diet. I am now eating more fibre and more protein, which is very important to everyone.

In my dealings with their office, the person who stands out the most for professionalism, courtesy and tact, was their Administrative & Special Projects Coordinator. If you have any questions regarding billing, she is definitely the person to communicate with. She has the best interpersonal skills I have seen in an administrator in years. I worked for over 45 years in law firms and can say her emails were always top notch!

I would highly recommend Health Stand Nutrition for anyone looking to improve their health.“

– J Ashton

“I highly recommend my dietitian at Health Stand Nutrition Consulting Inc. She is extremely knowledgeable and professional, and her approach to health feels genuinely holistic. She combines solid, evidence-based guidance with thoughtful emotional support, which made the whole experience both reassuring and empowering.

After each consultation, my dietitian provided clear and helpful follow-up notes that captured our conversation and included references to additional resources. These summaries made it much easier for me to study and put her advice into practice in a realistic and sustainable way.

There is a common misconception that nutritionists are “food police,” but that couldn’t be further from the truth here. my dietitian introduced a wide variety of healthy, enjoyable food options and offered practical guidance gently and without judgment when caution was needed. She works with you as a health partner, not a disciplinarian.

Even though her services were not covered by my insurance, I consider this money very well spent and a worthwhile investment in my long-term health.

I would also want to recognize my other dietitian, who provided the initial consultation when Angela was not immediately available. my other dietitian addressed and put to rest many concerns I had developed during my extensive research, particularly regarding protein and oxalates in relation to osteoporosis management. I left that meeting with a great sense of relief and reassurance.”

– B O

“The Dieticians at Health Stand Nutrition help you to take action on the science behind eating well by making it practical, understandable, and fun. Their office is cozy and not at all clinical or intimidating. I felt like I was sitting down with a really smart, caring friend who wanted to help me make the best choices for my lifestyle and food preferences. Andrea and her team really are the best in the business.”

Marty Avery

“I had 4 Zoom sessions with my dietitian, and each one felt almost like a form of therapy.

My dietitian is incredibly compassionate and highly knowledgeable. She listened with genuine care and always made sure she fully understood my experiences and concerns. Through our conversations, she helped me build a more mindful and balanced relationship with food one that is free from guilt and restriction.

I especially loved the small “homework” exercises she gave me after each session. I still use them today, as they are simple yet powerful tools that feel like lifelong guidance.

Most importantly, she helped me become kinder and more compassionate toward myself, and less perfectionistic.
This shift in mindset has been a real eye-opener. It’s still a work in progress, but I already feel more at peace, less restricted, and genuinely happier. Thank you to my dietitian :)”

Ophelie Ivory Z

“I didn’t realize how strong my “diet mentality” was, and all the rules I had in my head about food. I was in a cycle of reward/punish/binge/cringe. I booked with your business very reluctantly, on the repeated advice of my doctor, to get my slowly rising cholesterol levels in check. I thought I knew everything about food, and my behaviour with food, but I was definitely re-schooled. My weight is creeping down, I feel good about my diet, exercise, body image, and lifestyle.”

Amy Floyd

“Exceptional experience with my Dietitian! I was overwhelmed with conflicting information about nutrition, but Paige took the time to explain everything clearly and simply. She created a personalized meal plan that fit perfectly with my lifestyle and dietary preferences. She helped me in choosing the food which is easily available in the stores I shop. Highly recommend for anyone looking to improve their diet with a knowledgeable and approachable expert.”

Hemendra Gusain

“I had 4 appointments with my dietitian at Health Stand Nutrition, and I had a really positive experience working with her. She was very easy to talk to, knowledgeable, and always brought such positive energy to every session.

My dietitian took the time to understand my personal health goals and gave me specific, practical advice and tips that I could actually apply in my daily life. She answered all of my questions thoroughly and made me feel comfortable throughout the process.

Thanks to her guidance and support, I feel like I achieved the goals I set for myself. I would highly recommend my dietitian to anyone looking for a supportive and professional dietitian and nutrition counsellor!”

“I found my Dietitian warm, funny, and skilled at teaching nutrition concepts without the overwhelm. The general approach of each session was to mix science with emotion, which was exceedingly effective in helping me shift my perspective on food from one of anxiety to one of joy and curiosity.”

Erin Kronstedt

“I just went through my annual check up and my cholesterol levels couldn’t be any better (both LDL and HDL). Diet, exercise, and above all, fiber intake did the trick for me. Thank you so much!”

Ray Wah

“I wish more Dieticians understood the complexity of people’s relationship to food like you all do! My Dietitian was incredibly responsive and felt more like a food therapist than a Dietician, which is exactly what I needed. My Dietitian pointed out food rules that I had disguised very well to myself as a preference such as not “liking” certain foods that I associated with weight gain. I learned that literally none of the food rules I had created for myself were based in any sort of legitimate science about food, but were all part of my anxiety around food and eating and unsuccessful attempts to control my body. My Dietitian understood right away that this was not about healthy eating for me or about issues with digestion (this is what I initially told her I needed help with). I am very well versed in “healthy” foods and “eating clean”… this was about seeing food as just food and my body as just a body, and taking away the power of both to influence how I feel about myself, something that was a daily (hourly) struggle for me for many years. With my Dietitians support, I came to understand that my digestive issues are a direct result of the anxiety I felt when I ate – I was ruminating about what I should and shouldn’t eat so much and feeling guilty if I ate too much or the “wrong” thing that I made myself physically unwell. I learned so much it is difficult to capture it all succinctly! It was all so helpful.”

Alix Gordon-Moran

“I’ve never been to a dietician before. What I received was far more advice and knowledge that I had initially expected. My Dietitian is extremely knowledgeable, excellent at communicating, and just plain fun to talk to. I’ve learned so much in just three appointments. I can actually feel the differences in my body after making the changes recommended to me. I’m far more aware of how to read my body’s reactions to certain foods. I have learned how to put together healthy delicious meals that aren’t repetitive. I don’t have to deprive myself of anything nor do I coerce myself into eating things I dislike. I’d rate this 6 stars instead of 5 stars on google reviews as my expectations were far over achieved! Thank you!”

Andre Perras

“I cook mostly whole foods and I watch very closely what I eat.  The problem was that there are things that I cannot have control over, such as social events, parties etc. I would often pre-eat, so I could skip the food being served, or I would opt to not eat at all, but then I would arrive home starving. And yet, with such a restricted, health focused diet, I could not seem to lose “the last 15 pounds”, something that I have struggled with my entire life. I measured my food, kept a food diary, weighed myself daily and every time I ate something it would affect my mood and I would then focus on exercise to mitigate the impact of the food I ate. I thought I was doing it right, yet all I thought about every day was food and the stress of uncontrollable situations became too much for me. That is when I reached out for help. I was very lucky to find Health Stand Nutrition – my Dietitian is absolutely awesome. I wasn’t sure what a Registered Dietician would do, but I figured they would simply help me figure out portion sizes and types based on my activities and perhaps they would identify how many times per week I could “food splurge” and still maintain or lose weight… and I’d be on my way. Instead, my Dietitian helped me realize that I had some (my husband would likely say many) obsessive ways, and bottom line: I was a dieter; even though I did not realize it. We talked about an approach called Intuitive Eating. This was a methodology where I would need to “lose the rules”; I could no longer write down my meals, count carbs or list portion size, or weigh myself. It seemed daunting at first but with my Dietitians support and guidance, it was manageable.  My Dietitian taught me how to eat intuitively. She promised that if I was open to this approach I could be free of my obsession with food and that one day I would eat when I am hungry and stop when I am full. She created a world where no food was off limits. She provided me with resources, assistance and support to help to learn to listen to my body. I really had no idea how my old ways were impacting my life; I had created a world that revolved around food and I felt like I was in prison. I dreaded meals at other people’s homes and meals out to restaurants, where food that I had always deemed off limits was served. So the concept of Intuitive Eating seemed scary. If I allowed myself all these thing I have worked so hard to eliminate I feared that I would binge. But I don’t binge. It surprised me. I learned to savour food and if I don’t love the first bite, I don’t have a second. No foods are off limits and I actually realized that I don’t love all sweets and dessert, I now only eat it if it will satisfy me. I have increased energy, less mood swings, my clothes still fit and are even getting looser (but this isn’t even important anymore) and in fact my overall stress level has been reduced. I let go of the control and others can cook dinner in our house and I am ok with it. I can go to client lunches and industry events without fear of what they are serving. And the surprise is that I eat less overall and I am not hungry. There are easy days and there are a few hard days. But even a hard day Intuitive Eating is easier than a hard day dieting… because it’s ok to eat on the run, have full fat cheesecake or drink that glass of wine. No more unsatisfying “diet” substitutes. No longer depriving myself of food I like. All of this means I have less cravings and I eat less because I know I can have it again. I know that not eating “perfectly”  is perfect and food will no longer impact my mood or affect my end goal, which is to be healthy. A huge weight has been lifted and I am so much happier. I can honestly say I will never diet again- what a freeing statement! I really can’t say enough amazing things about my Dietitian and what she did for me and for my family who have also benefited from the Intuitive Eating approach taught by Health Stand Nutrition.”

Jennifer Desilets

“Health Stand Nutrition helped me change my fundamental approach to food. My Dietitian was warm, empathetic, and very knowledgeable. She taught me how to eat consciously, and without guilt. This was incredibly helpful because I had never thought in that way before. I learned sustainable strategies for shopping, cooking, and eating that I have incorporated into my life. It was definitely money well spent for me. The coaching was inspiring, action-oriented, and non-judgmental, and it made a sustained impact on me, even years later.”

Bruce Sellery, Business Journalist, Television News Anchor and Personal Finance Coach 

“Prior to visiting my Dietitian, I had adopted an extremely low carb diet in order to lose 50 lbs, and while that diet worked for me I knew that a low carb diet was unsustainable.  So I wanted to get advice on a balanced diet that would give me the nutrition I needed without putting the weight back on.  Although I am fairly savvy when it comes to diet and nutrition, I found my Dietitian to be extremely supportive, motivational, and knowledgeable.  The 3 sessions were very worthwhile and I still refer to them on a regular basis.  The fact is that 7 months after losing all that weight I have only put on 5 lbs, thanks to a sensible balanced diet and the motivation that my Dietitian instilled in me. I also had BPH (prostate enlargement).  My Dietitian did some research for me on what foods to take, and what to avoid.  7 months later, the BPH is totally gone, which just shows that many ailments can be treated by diet. Whether you are looking to lose weight, keep the weight off, or get your health sorted, you will find a friend in Health Stand Nutrition.”

P.H.

“Our stable family home was rocked to the core when our daughter was diagnosed with an eating disorder. How could something like this happen to our joyful, funny, generous girl? Feelings of terror and helplessness washed over us daily. Grappling with the enormity of our daughter’s struggles and how we could help her was daunting. A friend had recommended Health Stand to us as they had helped her when she struggled with an eating disorder. Our Dietitian immediately made a connection with our daughter. Her kind and understanding way instantly built trust in all of us. Our Dietitian instinctively knew how to encourage our daughter, asking meaningful questions and providing helpful ideas on navigating the day-to-day struggles of simply eating. With our Dietitian’s support, we could see a path out of disordered eating. Her guidance gave us, as parents, a role in how we could effectively help our daughter. With her encouragement, we were empowered and no longer felt helpless and alone. Thanks to our Dietitian’s help, our daughter made excellent gains back to health. As she recovered weight, she was determined to put disordered eating behind her and seek therapy to address the root of her mental health issues. Our daughter fought hard in her recovery, and we credit a large part of that to our Dietitian. She inspired a will to get better in our daughter, and for that, we will always be grateful. Now our daughter is in her first year of university at the University of Victoria. She is a typical first-year university student navigating her way through the ups and downs of school. The food menu in residence is interesting, but our daughter consistently finds food she likes and navigates the menu with no issues. Although living through an eating disorder was hell, we would say that it made our daughter reflect on her challenges and helped her see that life can be difficult, but with honesty and the help of others, she can get through it ok.”

Sam B.

“As a busy mom working full time and feeding a growing family, I’m so glad I reached out to a Registered Dietitian at Health Stand. I was feeling overwhelmed by all the conflicting nutrition advice and wanted support with some health concerns. After a few sessions, I gained practical tips, helpful strategies, and a lot more confidence in the kitchen especially with feeding my teenage boys. The guidance was personalized, supportive, and never judgmental. I highly recommend Health Stand to anyone looking for practical, realistic nutrition advice!”

– Alee

“I have used HealthStand on 2 separate occasions for help with my diet and they are incredible. This time I saw my dietitan and she was wonderful. I worked through a lot with her and she was so helpful”

Kate Ukrainetz

“Has been great working with my dietitian. Very informative and helpful.”

Jason

“I came to Health Stand Nutrition at the advice of my psychologist. I was diagnosed with anxiety and tried many different avenues to get my mental health better, but nothing was working. I was malnourished and had been my entire life (age 37). My Dietitian took the time to explain things to me and help me understand just how important food is. Not only for nourishment, but how important it is to enjoy (and how fun and creative food can be). She understood all my concerns, she was very easy to talk to, and provided so many helpful tips. My mental health has done a complete 180 and I honestly can’t believe how much better I am feeling, simply because of proper nutrition and eating habits.”

Lee-Ann Wells

“I am so grateful for the onsite executive coaching of Health Stand Nutrition Consulting Inc. that our company, Walton Global Investments Ltd., decided to provide to the executives. Of course, I have always known that healthy eating is essential for overall long term health, but it has been with your instructions that I have committed myself to proper nutrition – and it’s working! As a result of these sessions, I am more productive, have more energy at work, and have learned not only what to eat, why and when, but also easy strategies to keep it up. My commitment to long term health has never been better or more fun. Thanks for sharing your expertise and putting me on the path to a healthy life.”

Leslie Fryers, Q.C., ICD.D, Executive Vice President Law, Walton Global Investments Ltd.

“Working with Health Stand Nutrition has been amazing! Their staff is incredibly knowledgeable and provides advice based on “wants” and not just “needs”. I highly recommend Health Stand Nutrition to anyone looking for a healthier lifestyle without sacrificing lifestyle.”

David Hensch

“By giving me a safe place to talk and examine what was or was not working in my life I came to see the opportunity to reduce controllable stress producing behavior which was impacting my body. Generally, I was amazed at the poise and understanding that my Dietitian provided in my sessions. She was empathetic and supportive of positive changes that I made, and understanding of those I didn’t make.”

Beatrice Wilhelm

“I love food. It stimulates each of the senses, keeps us energized toward our goals, yet, I’ve had a rollercoaster relationship with food that was largely based on fear and avoidance. That was until I received some spot-on nutrition education from a Registered Dietitian at Health Stand Nutrition. Working with my Dietitian to address a long-winded battle with anorexia nervosa has been inspiring and empowering. From a restrictive and rule-ridden approach to eating, I’ve developed a healthy and sustainable approach to meals and snacks that supports my goals to travel in the future. I peeled off labels that I thought would never unstick and allowed myself to explore economic, time-saving, and delicious recipes that work for me. If something didn’t’ work, there was space to learn from it, and continuous email feedback helped me stay accountable. I feel grateful for this ongoing support and keen to take on new challenges in my life. The program allowed me to take challenges at my own pace with the guidance of understanding and down to earth professional support.”

C.B.

“I’ve worked with the Health Stand Nutrition team for several years. I’m continuously impressed by the team’s knowledge of health and nutrition and their use of practical strategies to educate and help people live a healthier life. I deeply admire their dedication and commitment to helping individuals with serious health issues who need 1:1 support to make changes. I confidently recommend the services and knowledge of the Health Stand Nutrition team to help both individuals and organizations achieve a healthier, happier lifestyle.”

Catherine Russell

“My Dietitian has been such a positive influence in my eating disorder recovery. I have been able to incorporate grains, soulful foods (like ice cream) and enjoy a glass of wine once in a while. I am able to not go overboard and really tune in to my feelings and check in with myself. I’m setting boundaries for myself and trying to handle those situations by laughing and I find having a better diet is helping me be happier and have more energy and a clear mind. My Dietitian is so genuine, realistic, helpful and honest. I appreciate that she is so down to earth and really just amazing on how supportive and flexible she has been to my needs.”

R.B.

“We went to see a Sports Nutritionist at Health Stand Nutrition to find out how to deal with the near fainting spells my teenage daughter was experiencing during exercise. My daughter learned to take control of her own nutrition needs. As she is very athletic and active she needed to learn to combine enough nutrition and sustenance for her snacks before, during and after sports. Our Nutritionist really engaged my daughter, asked her questions, gave her the information and put her in charge of helping with food preparation, being responsible for making sure the correct ingredients are purchased on time and getting her to self-monitor how she feels each time she makes a change to her diet. I thought that was a wonderful approach, it helped us out a lot and it totally inspired my daughter to live a healthy life style and work towards fitness goals. Thank you very much!”

Monika Salkauska

“I spent three hours with my Dietitian when first diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. I learned more from her about food in those 3 hours than I had learned in all the years of my life. I love the newsletter, there is always something to learn.”

Peter Whitehead

“It was nice to meet with someone that has knowledge about Diabetes and Celiac Disease. What my Dietitian did for me was bring some products to my attention and get me motivated again to make the changes I need to make so that I can feel better again. I enjoyed my sessions with my Dietitian a lot and really appreciate the knowledge she has and the help she gave me to look at things in a more healthy way. She also made me realize that meals don’t need to be complicated and difficult, it really can be fast and easy. Thanks so much for her help.”

Lorie H.

“My dietitian has been amazing to work with. She truly understands what it’s like to have an ADHD brain and the diet struggles it comes with. I plan to book more sessions to continue working on this and couldn’t be happier with her support.”

Lisa Kedian.

 Matthew Peters 

“I had four lovely meetings with my dietitian. She was very knowledgable, helpful and her expertise really shone through.”

Lois McCormack

“I had a few sessions with my dietitian and she really helped me understand diabetes and how food/lifestyle can affect it both positively and negatively. She really listens to you and makes suggestions based on what will work for you. I never felt judged or that I wasn’t “doing enough”. She got me to a place where I can accept the necessary changes needed willingly. That will be sustainable for my long term health. My dietitian is warm, funny and very knowledgeable. You’ll be in good hands with her!”

– Sara-Jane Somerville

“I was on your webinar with you several months ago. If anything you’ve given me at least a mindset I can follow. It’s nice to hear that I don’t have to give everything up, and since then I’ve been trying harder than I’ve ever had, and I still have things when I want them, but I don’t do the whole cheat day thing, I think that throws a lot of people off. I’d rather just have a bit of something when I want it. I just hit 40 lbs gone, and am looking forward to the next 40. I’m still not perfect in how I eat, and I don’t think I can be, but what I’m doing seems to be working. And I still get my chocolate too…lol…I just try to have it a little at a time. Thanks for changing my mind.”

Read Glenn’s full story here
Glenn DuHart

“My Dietititan is amazing at her job and she truly cares about her clients. When I was doing terribly with my eating disorder and pregnant, she cared enough to follow up with my doctor. I don’t know what things would be like today if she hadn’t done that but I can’t thank her enough! She has helped me so much in developing habits and routines that help me to stay on track with my eating disorder recovery and stay motivated. She was also helpful in communicating with my husband the habits and routines that are helpful in order to stay on the path to recovery. She is easy to be open and honest with. Non-judgmental but also challenges me with eating disorder behaviours and beliefs that I hold on to.”

Lindsay F.

“I reached out after noticing how good my co-worker was looking and she told me about Health Stand Nutrition. I had quit smoking about 8 months prior and was noticing the scale going up and up. I was exercising and staying active and tracking calories, but the more I was keeping track of calories the more frustrated I became and more often than not I was over my daily limit and then would get upset…pig-out and double my daily limit. My Dietitian told me was quit counting calories and if you want a brownie, have the brownie (just be conscious about your decision). I always looked forward to our next sessions as we followed up on previous personal goals and set new ones. She offered advice, recipes, tips and tricks and every time I saw her was another “aha” moment that freed me more. Today, I am conscious about what I eat and drink, I eat balanced meals and never deprive myself. I feel great, I have more energy, and feel stronger. Oh and guess what….the scale has stopped going up. I highly recommend Health Stand for everyone! Even if you think you know it all…I can promise you, you don’t. I would like to send a huge thank you, I’ve never felt better!”

Josie Ballard

“My Dietitian was outstanding for her supportive guidance. At first it all seemed too easy – I could eat anything I want as long as I am responsible? Crazy. It took me a while to trust her ideas until I realized that ultimately it was up to me to get healthy – with her expert guidance. I now focus on enjoying tasty healthy food, committing to exercise, and not focusing on the scale. And the results? Never felt better, eat much more interesting and tasty food (thanks Mediterranean diet) and people tell me it looks like I have lost weight. Feels like it but I’m not checking. Don’t need to. Just loving this healthy feeling.”

Dennis Garnham, Artistic Director, The Grand Theatre

“Health Stand Nutrition counselled my whole family a couple years ago, and we still follow the easy 1-2-3 guidelines to eating healthy. They make eating healthy easy, and understands how to be realistic, practical and forgiving of not being perfect!”

Jacqueline Drew, CEO Tenato Strategy Inc.

“After being on a restrictive diet, I started to binge eat frequently and struggled to get back on track. My Dietitian was very kind, helpful and created a safe environment for me to share. She explained the science behind it and helped me get to intuitive eating. My weight fluctuated 20 lbs over a year, and for the past year and a half it has remained the same. Having worked on this, I have been doing great at my career and feel more wholesome and happy! I highly recommend Health Stand Nutrition for help.”

S.F.

“I’ve been working with them for the last 18 months. From my first virtual visit to set up my program to now, service has been professional and welcoming. I’ve been working via zoom with my dietitian 1:1 and it has been incredibly helpful. She has been informative, provided many excellent resources and is evidence based in her approach. Each session was geared to where I was at a the moment, and each ended with action steps that we identified together that best met my needs. If you are looking for dietitian support to help create a healthier relationship with food, I can highly recommend them.”

– Carla Gibson

“My Dietitian is so non-judgemental and great at listening. She works hard to teach me things and think outside the box in terms of ongoing challenges in negative situations related to my eating disorder recovery. I am always super motivated after my appointments. I am making really positive changes in my lifestyle that are making a big difference.”

Rachel K.

“Andrea has a longstanding, solid reputation with colleagues and clients because of her creative, compassionate, “let’s do it” approach to life and work. Her information is credible, evidence-based and better yet, presented in a way that sticks. I’ve referred clients to her practice for over ten years, knowing their personal struggles and questions will be greeted with zero judgement. Rather, Andrea understands that everyone’s relationship with food can sometimes be distressing or frustrating, and she welcomes a chance to explore solutions that are practical and joyful.”

Dr. Colleen Cannon, Clinical Psychologist, Co-founder Craving Change Inc.

“I now understand the requirements my body needs for my athletic goals / lifestyle and understand how to achieve these requirements.”

John B.

“I’m happy to report that I bought new pants that were 4 pants sizes smaller. I still wear my belt, but more for looks, as much as it is to hold up my pants. I wanted to thank you for the things that you taught me, I’ve implemented many things on a daily basis and continue to do them.”

Jane Weston

“We found our dietitian through our employer benefit app, and we are very happy with her advice and help. With her help we have reset our mindset and approach to my husband diabetes management. She has had a profound effect on our approach to nutrition. We cannot reccomend her enough.”

Lena Rai

“My overall experience with Healthstand has been phenomenal! Right from the beginning, I felt like I was at the right place to make real changes in my life that matter and will eventually lead to a sustainable healthy lifestyle. The intake coordinator, was friendly and professional. She took the time to help me understand the process and ensure that the program I selected was the best fit for my needs. She made time over her own conflicting priorities to ensure that I felt supported right from the start and answered all my questions. She connected me with my dietitian. My sessions with my dietitian were insightful and amazing. She partnered with me right off the bat on this journey and became my sounding board as well as my coach to ensure that the choices I made fit my goals and were value add to my lifestyle. She encouraged me to bring my best while being empathetic to the multitude of responsibilities I was juggling in my life. The staff at Healthstand are amazing people who want you to succeed. They don’t just support you for the sessions you sign up for but are very much available to be your long term support if you ever need it. Thank you Healthstand for everything you have done for me.”

– Nidhi Manohar

“My Dietitian was supportive and comforting, funny and knowledgeable. Throughout our assessment, we discussed portion sizes, what constitutes a healthy meal and snack, caloric intake and energy levels. She gave me tips about integrating regular snacks into my meal plan and a slick tracking tool to record them as well as to manage changes I am making to my diet. I felt we were in partnership regarding my health and wellness and we came up with a plan which is reasonable, sustainable and tailor-made for me. If you are looking for a Registered Dietician to help move you forward on your path to wellness, I would highly recommend Health Stand Nutrition.”

Colleen Biondi

“I went to Health Stand Nutrition for help to gain weight. I ate meals but could not gain weight. My Dietitian listened to my concerns and understood my problem. She made me feel at ease and I felt that she was interested in my concerns and could help me. She gave me a meal planning package to help build balanced meals and healthy snacks. She wrote out suggestions so I had notes to refer to when I returned home. I was especially pleased when she gave me recipes to get me started on my road to healthy eating. I also enjoyed my sessions. We chatted and had a few laughs. My Dietitian knows about nutrition and understands people. I would highly recommend Health Stand Nutrition to anyone needing help in planning and eating nutritional meals.”

Diane Harris

“I originally went to see my Dietitian with a desire to gain control of a binging problem. I have always been an all or none eater. A “good day” consisted of only healthy eating. No sugar, no treats, and very few carbs. If I “broke down” and had one cookie it then became a “bad day” and the eating was out of control and my whole day was bad. As a result I tried every diet and fad to lose weight. But the only thing I gained was even worse eating habits and more binging. Food consumed my mind and I found it hard to enjoy meal times. My Dietitian taught me how to not “diet” but eat the right amounts of a variety of food to feel full and satisfied. And most important she taught me that the grey area is OK. It’s okay to have a treat without guilt. I now have my bingeing under control and eat the right amounts of food to give me the energy I need. And I have a “treat” every day – in control – knowing that there’s always tomorrow to have it again. And for the first time in my life I am not totally consumed with what I’m eating. I can actually enjoy going out for dinner and preparing meals! I also feel confident I am teaching my daughters a healthy balance about food and eating. Thanks!”

Alanna

“I signed up for a registered dietician and requested one due to her previous rave reviews and I was not disappointed at all. My dietitian is very knowledgeable and provided me with a ton of useful information based on what I told her I was looking for. I had 4 sessions with her, which she was able to accommodate my schedule and each session was filled with info that created so much awareness for me. I have been able to come up with plans to help me achieve my goal. My dietitian is great about taking notes and sharing links post session which you can refer to, as a guide. She follows up on any action items that were discussed. She is very approachable and easy to talk to and never makes you feel bad for some goals that you were not able to achieve. She always puts a positive light on things and comes up with plans discussing with me, that are sustainable in the long run and not something that provides quick results. I am very happy with the sessions I’ve had with her and have left the sessions more knowledgeable and aware than I was before I started these sessions. A huge thank you to my dietitian! I would highly recommend her as your RD, if you are looking for one.”

– D S

“I have had a fantastic experience with my dietitian from Health Stand. I did 10 sessions and each one was very informative and helpful. My dietitian took the time to get to know me and quickly was able to make me feel comfortable sharing with her. Her methods really matched my personality which made the process go so smoothly as I was able to understand and integrate the strategies and information she was sharing with me. I appreciated how caring and practical she was and always felt supported and understood. While I was supplied with many resources and “homework” to review and complete, it never felt overwhelming or like busy work. All resources were highly applicable and actively functioned to help me attain the goals and level of understanding I was seeking. I would highly recommend Health Stand and my dietitian to anyone willing and wanting to understand nutrition and their relationship with food on a better level.”

Sadie Dumba

“Thanks to my Sports Nutritionists awesome advice on what to eat before and after workouts, I find that I always have the energy to continue on with my day, even after a very hard swim or a difficult day in the weight room. I have even noticed a difference in my competitive swimming as I now have more focus and more determination, which I’m sure is a result of the advice that my Nutritionist gave me. The plans are great because they incorporate small changes that seem to make huge differences in my day.  I loved her healthy alternatives to a few of the foods that I like. I also loved the recipes she gave me! Thank you again for all your help.”

Carla

“I went to see my Dietitian almost a year ago now with a cholesterol problem. After analyzing my current diet and changes that I already made, she was able to present a multitude of further choices that would help even further. One of the best things in the changes to my diet that I appreciated was that I was able to continue to eat a lot of the foods I like. I only had to change some of the preparation methods and quantity. With the changes we made to my diet as well as exercise, I was able to reduce my cholesterol by over one unit in only 3 months. My Dietitian is very positive minded, and helps you focus on what needs to be done to achieve your goal. At the same time you feel committed, not pressured, to do what it takes. Thank you very much.”

Bjorn

“It was life changing information. My dietitian identified nutrition problems from a physiological and psychological perspective and gave evidence-based solutions. She is also actively upgrading her knowledge to better understand the topic of nutrition. She is a great pick for somebody who is actively looking to change and improve their eating habits for a healthier life.”

– Jay See

“When I found that my weight gain was beginning to interfere with my lifestyle, I decided that it was time to engage some professional assistance. From the day that I first met my Dietitian, her bouncy enthusiasm for her work was infectious. She is a very knowledgeable professional who brings a down home approach to her advice. She works with her clients in a manner that best suits their needs. My Dietitian and I agreed on a reasonable objective and then developed a strategy to achieve it. The objective was to lose weight at a reasonable pace until I had the overweight problem under control. The strategy was for me to develop a better understanding of the nutritional value of various foods and how they worked together in the human body to aid in healthy living. We mixed the nutritional discussion with other lifestyle commentary which enabled me to put the whole issue in context. One thing that I felt was very important from the beginning was to have fun doing it and not to lose energy as a result of lowering my caloric intake, as I exercise regularly as well. In fact, eating smarter increased my energy level. My Dietitian had many helpful hints in day to day living which enabled me to make the “dieting” aspect of the strategy very manageable. The simplest piece of advice that my Dietitian gave me was that there wasn’t anything that I couldn’t eat while on the program as long as I understood what I was eating and the impact it would have on my progress. A simple, initial target to lose 5 -10 pounds turned into an updated goal of losing 30 pounds. When that was achieved over six months, without ever feeling hungry, I decided to go for 40 pounds, which is where I was many, many years ago. Having achieved that milestone, my Dietitian and I are now working on a strategy to stabilize my weight loss and to ensure that the eating habit improvements achieved are embedded into my normal routine. I recommend Health Stand Nutrition very highly to anyone who would like to better understand the value of the food they are consuming and to learn some helpful, customized hints to improve their eating habits in a healthy, user friendly, way.”

John Watson

“I was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure and wanted to get helpful advice to get me eating better and on the right track as soon as possible.  My wife found Health Stand and we gave them a call. They had me matched up with a nutritionist right away.  My nutritionist was wonderful, extremely helpful and very encouraging.  I feel I’m on the right path now to keeping my blood sugar and pressure under control and can maintain this way of eating without feeling like I’m losing out. Also, fantastic people on the office side of things too who took my info, got me setup with the nutritionist and got my invoice updated after every appointment so it could be submitted for reimbursement.  All around positive experience and would recommend Health Stand to friends and family.”

Matt Springer 

“My dietitian at Health Stand has been an incredible support for me over the past year. I signed up for the 18-session package because I have multiple food sensitivities, and understanding what I could eat let alone finding recipes that worked was a real challenge.

What I appreciated most was how genuine and compassionate her support was. Our sessions did not always follow a strict preplanned structure, and I truly valued that. She met me where I was at each time. My dietitian offered thoughtful suggestions, plenty of recipes, and steady encouragement to keep trying, even when many recipes still needed some adjustments to fit my sensitivities.

Before contacting Health Stand, I had worked with two other nutritionists both of them using ChatGPT, not the kind of support I was looking for. When I came here, I had a choice between two practitioners, and I very clearly chose the best one for me. My dietitian’s care, patience, and flexibility made a real difference, especially during the sessions where I rambled and needed space to process what I was going through.

Thank you for all of your support. I would absolutely recommend Health Stand to anyone looking for compassionate and personalized nutritional support.”

– Duane Marran

“I just wanted to share with you the measurable changes that have occurred in my health/life since our first meeting about three and a half months ago. My total cholesterol has dropped from 5.8 to 4.6, and my doctor tells me to expect a further substantial reduction over the next year or so. My weight has dropped approximately 13 lbs. so far. I find that I need about one to one and a half hours less sleep per night than I needed before, to have the same energy the next day. Lastly, my digestion improved. There was nothing wrong with it before, but now it is turbocharged! This is all pretty exciting stuff for me, and I attribute it 100% to the program that you laid out for me. I will continue to mention you to people who might benefit from the same thing you did for me.”

Pat

“My Dietitian has been very helpful with some blood sugar difficulties that I have been dealing with for years. She taught me how to eat in a way that keeps me full and ensures that my energy levels are high. Feeling light headed due to low blood sugar levels has been a consistent problem for me, probably since adolescence. I seldom experience this now, and if I do, I am now aware of what specific types of food to eat that are beneficial to me. I feel much healthier and through a combination of eating the proper foods, spacing meals and snacks appropriately and daily exercise I have lost 15 pounds – an added bonus I was not expecting. I have gone from being very close to having diabetes 6 months ago, to having current blood sugar levels that are normal. I am so pleased with the way my Dietitians advice has helped me create a healthier lifestyle.”

Barbara

“I originally came to see my Sports Nutritionist looking for assistance in attaining some very specific goals that I have struggled to achieve for more than 10 years, even with the assistance of other ‘nutritional professionals.’ I play professional lacrosse for the Calgary Roughnecks, and as a professional athlete I have found that the physical demands of my sport call for a very scientific approach to nutrition coupled with expert knowledge of sport-specific training routines. This truth combined with the natural hurdles of my vegetarian diet (I’ve been a vegetarian for over 15 years), have made my goals of weight-gain (and maintenance) very challenging. It was not until I begin nutritional sessions with my Sports Nutritionist that my objective of adding positive pounds (size and strength) in the amount of 15-20 lbs was realized. Moreover, I was able to achieve my goals in a much shorter time-span than I originally thought possible. Thanks to my Nutritionist, and her professional, sport-specific advice, I have achieved my weight-gain objectives, which has in turn greatly enhanced my game – all without compromising my dietary restrictions.”

John Kilbride, professional lacrosse athlete, Calgary Roughnecks 

“I readily admit that as it related to the ED, I couldn’t understand the value of a dietician when our therapist first suggested it. Our daughter was already seeing a therapist weekly and knew ALOT about food, nutrition, and healthy eating habits (yes, we understand the irony). I couldn’t have been more wrong.
One of our biggest challenges was the emotional disconnect that had become obvious with the ED and was steadily and rapidly getting worse. Our daughter was depressed, angry, withdrawn; she felt unreachable no matter what we tried. Having our Dietitian meant that we could step back from ensuring my daughter was eating enough calories to survive and focusing on making sure she wasn’t getting sicker, and focus on supporting, encouraging, and validating her needs and experience. I cannot express this enough: THIS WAS LIFE CHANGING.

We couldn’t make any progress related to food AT ALL, but she would see our Dietitian and return home ready to face whatever challenge they had agreed to. Even if the challenge felt impossible, their agreement meant that I was there to comfort and support, not plan and manage – this made a massive difference in our relationship and put a stop to the power struggles over food. I have NO DOUBT that her recovery went MUCH quicker and our relationship is actually stronger now primarily due to having our Dietitian as part of our recovery team.

Our Dietitian also provided our daughter with another neutral third party that she could talk to, someone young enough to connect with and who isn’t her parent. She could say things to our Dietitian and be understood without having to overexplain or worry about hurting feelings. Our Dietitian has this ability to meet a teen where they’re at, speak to them on their level without talking down to them or being clinical. She made our daughter feel heard and powerful enough to overcome this loud voice that was tormenting her. My daughter would enter angry and sick and would emerge calmer and more secure; those good feelings were fleeting at first, but over time they lasted longer and longer.

Another huge benefit was that we could trust that the progress she was making with the Dietitian was ‘enough’, so we could stop obsessing over her food intake and focus on our daughter. If you have a child with an ED, you understand the crushing weight created by the worry and uncertainty. Also, having someone with ED experience meant that we could turn to her when we had questions about my daughter’s progress and healing and what next steps would/should/could look like. This was incredibly valuable because as you walk through recovery with your child it can feel like you’re in a forest at night without directions -lost, helpless, fearful, panicked. Our Dietitian has the map and the flashlight.

She also ‘held our hands’ as we learned how to sit with our daughter as she tried new challenges. She provided multiple resources and strategies that we used to help my daughter – we were fearful of pushing her too hard that she’d shut down, and also fearful of not holding the line and letting the ED gain traction; without our Dietitian it would have been incredibly difficult for us to know what to do. She was such a steadying and encouraging force whenever we had questions or we had a difficult experience, and a wonderful cheerleader when things went well.

There is absolutely no question that our Dietitian was absolutely invaluable to us.”

Caylie V.

“I knew when I signed up for Ironman Canada, that I would need to ensure my nutrition was going to support the demands of an endurance training plan. I came to see a Sports Nutritionist and the information she provided to me was exactly what I needed. I came away with a formula to calculate precisely the amounts of carbohydrates and protein I needed as well as a new awareness of how to best restock my body’s fuel reserves and when to do so after working out. The information was invaluable to me for a successful training season and allowed me to fulfill all the training sets I needed to do, and have the energy to do every last one of them! I was confident about my food plan, which was absolutely integral to my successful year and competition. I never once felt that I had to compromise being a vegetarian as I knew exactly what my parameters were and how to best achieve optimal nutritional health.”

Debbie

“I met with a Sports Nutritionist at Health Stand Nutrition to discuss my personal goals, which were to increase my energy levels and muscle mass. She did a fantastic job at individually assessing my needs and offered numerous food choices that were catered for me. Since my visit, I have noticed an incredible change, I am feeling a lot stronger during my workouts, and my energy levels are higher then ever! I would without a doubt recommend Health Stand Nutrition to any individual looking to improve their lifestyle, no matter what fitness level or goal they have!”

Jeff Lindstrom

“I am very active and involved in competitive sports but my eating habits were a total disaster. My portion sizes were too large, my meals were not balanced and I was always hungry. I went to see a Dietitian at Health Stand Nutrition so she could help me in terms of eating properly and maybe guide me to losing all my extra pounds. And did she ever. She explained to me what I was doing wrong and why and what would be the right things to do. Her explanations, diagrams, charts, and recipes made sense to someone who had never really paid too much attention to their diet. I have lost over 20 lbs just by eating properly and continuing to exercise regularly. She bestowed me with confidence and made it all seem so easy, which I now realize it is. I feel great, have a tremendous amount of energy and fit into my jeans at the back of the closet again.”

Vanessa

“Since meeting with my Sports Dietitian I feel that I have a better understanding of the nutritional needs for my body. I am a 19 year old competitive short track speed skater. This past season I had a lot of trouble with sickness and low energy. I thought I ate well, trained hard and recovered well enough to maintain my busy lifestyle and athletic performance. I tried many things to regain my energy; I rested more and even compromised training programs. I have always tried to eat “healthy.” To me healthy meant fewer treats and a restrictive lifestyle. After meeting with my Sports Nutritionist I discovered that my thinking was wrong. As an athlete my energy needs are high. She has taught me how to balance my eating in order to maintain my desired performance. My energy level has increased significantly. I have learned that being healthy does not have to be restrictive and complicated. She has helped me gain a greater understanding of nutrition, so that I can apply it to my lifestyle in practical ways. I really appreciated her wisdom, understanding and enthusiasm.”

Kylee

“When I became pregnant I was concerned that my vegetarian diet may affect my growing baby. As a result, my doctor recommended that I see a Nutritionist. Visiting my Nutritionist was a great move because I learned that while my diet was basically good, there were many ways to improve upon it. I had to pay particular attention to my daily intake of protein, iron and calcium. It was a little challenging at first, as I had never been used to consciously planning my meals. However, I now had more than just myself to think about and so I was determined to do things right. I was grateful for all the handouts I was given and the many menu suggestions. I have never been much of a cook and have little imagination in that dept. I was therefore pleased that the suggestions were often very easy to prepare, though not necessarily obvious to the nutritionally-challenged! I also received great information on baby nutrition, something I have just started re-reading as our daughter is now 6 months old. Between us we’ve built a very healthy, bouncing baby.”

Peta

“Why is it that we wait until something goes wrong before we take action to ensure our body gets the proper nutrition it needs to stay healthy. I made it all the way to age 53 before my balloon popped. I’d always thought I was eating properly, boozing socially and often congratulated myself that I didn’t smoke. My problems were cholesterol related and became evident at my annual medical examination. My Doctor was shocked when he passed me the results of my blood work. He gave me six months to get my ducks back in order and a requisition to repeat the blood work by year end. If I could not normal my cholesterol level I was going on the pill. I hate pills! I then met with a Dietitian from Health Stand Nutrition. In six months and three short meetings my Dietitian passed her nutrition experience to me. I followed her plan and made some lifestyle changes. Together we shocked my Doctor again! This time a positive shock. Will I be staying with the plan? You bet….. Thanks. You do great work. Yours now with: Normal Cholesterol.”

Charlie

“It has been nearly 2 years now since my struggles with anorexia first began. At my lowest, I weighed just barely more than 37 kg (82 lbs.). I had lost hope that recovery was ever possible and at points was ready to simply give up. I find it difficult to explain exactly what anorexia does to a person, but it was a constant tormentor and I suffered immensely. My Dietitian has been working with me for over a year now and with her help I have come a long way. She encouraged me to continuously seek help and honestly gave me the hope that I could get through this. Together, we worked on increasing my meal plans and adding in new foods, since my list of ‘safe’ foods had gotten smaller and smaller with time. Gradually, my list grew more and more, and with it, so did my confidence. There has been a dramatic shift in my eating patterns. I went from barely eating anything in a day to now eating 3 meals and 2 snacks each and every day. For the first time in over two years I feel ‘normal’. I am pleased to say that I have gained back all the weight that I lost and even a bit more to ensure I remain healthy at nearly 100 lbs. I can’t say that I’m 100% cured, because recovery from an eating disorder is a long and trying process. But, what I can say is that I have made many changes to my life and my hopes for the future have returned. I decided to write this letter because I truly believe that if my Dietitian could help me, she can help anyone. I can imagine that at times I must have been an extremely difficult client, but she never gave up on me. And because of her, I am here to tell you all my story of success.”

J.B.

“Working with my Dietitian has had significant impact on my health and quality of life. She motivates one to make important health changes through helping you set achievable goals, one at a time. This process allows a person to make life changes not just temporary fixes. For example, it’s taken time to lose 6 lbs. but they are staying OFF! I have a lot more energy, and know how to get good energy at times of the day I need it. I am rarely ill. My blood pressure is way down. I love nutritious foods and new culinary adventures. My Dietitian is positive and patient – there isn’t a goal you feel you can’t tackle.”

Judy

“My usual tricks for losing weight were no longer working and I realized that I needed to become more informed about food and its effect on my body. With my Dietitians help, I have discovered how to gain control over my weight by making simple choices concerning what and when to eat. The results have been very gratifying in terms of weight loss and my overall health.”

Gayle

“This note is to say thank you so much for all your help with my nutritional questions. I have learnt so much from you. I found it quite fascinating to learn how to group foods together to get the best possible effects and how to choose foods which suited my lifestyle. I feel so much more energized. I know I will use the information you gave me the rest of my life and will impart this knowledge to my family and friends. I found your suggestions on lowering my blood pressure and choosing heart healthy foods a great help. Thank you once again, I know I will recommend you to anyone I feel needs help with his or her nutrition.”

Ann 

“My Dietitian was a tremendous help to me in changing my eating patterns only slightly to make a huge difference in my ability to control hunger. So long as I keep to that pattern of eating, I can feel well, energetic and fit. Weight loss is always very slow for me, but at least being able to not feel hungry all the time helps curb some of my unnecessary eating. Feeling well and improving on fatigue is a real bonus. My Dietitian made me feel like it is very possible to deal with the hunger that was getting in the way of my losing weight.”

Lois

“I was advised be my doctor to consult a Dietician for help in reducing my cholesterol levels and in losing some weight. My Dietitian gave me great advice on the kinds of foods to eat to help me to do so and what times of the day to eat certain foods in order to keep my energy levels up. She also gave me some recipes to use and the ones I have tried so far have been delicious. My Dietitian is very helpful and is willing to spend time explaining her suggestions to you, without making you feel that if you eat something “bad” you are a failure. I know that I can call on her at any time, if I have any questions related to diet.”

Nan

“Last week my doctor recommended that I come to see you. I am thankful that she recommended you. After only one meal I noticed a change. I really don’t remember feeling this good for a long time. My cravings for sweets has diminished and it’s just a bad habit now. Soon to be broken. I have more energy and I am full for a much longer period of time. I can’t believe what a difference this has made. Just by altering a few combinations and adding more carbs to my diet it has made a huge difference. I also eat smaller meals and snack in between. I am acutely aware if I have made a poor choice as I go from feeling great to not so good. I am much more aware now of what I’m putting in my mouth. I don’t want to feel crappy anymore because of the food I’ve decided to eat or not eat. Eating at the right times makes such a difference. I feel great. Thanks for finishing University. I’m sending a letter to my doctor also.”

Lynn

“I was recently diagnosed as glucose intolerant. With my Dietitian’s assistance I have been able to reduce my glucose level to near normal in a very short period of time. She helped us with meal planning, provided valuable information on food and shared many excellent recipes. Her approach was very professional, practical and informative. We are well on our way to a healthier lifestyle.”

Lee

“What I love most about the Health Stand Dietitians is how they help people with healthy eating while still enjoying their favourite foods! I highly recommend the Health Stand team for credible nutrition advice and non-judgemental support in making lasting changes.”

Richelle Tabelon, Registered Dietitian

“I am 48 years old. About 3 years ago I weighed over 240lbs and was totally out of shape. I decided to try to lose weight and get fit. I started by walking the dog and then worked my way up to running. I entered a 10 K race and started to feel much better. Next I ran a half marathon and then finished a 180 km bike race. In February of last year I was 211lbs and 27.5% body fat. I could not seem to lose any more weight so went to see a Dietitian at Health Stand Nutrition. The plan was simple and very easy to follow and it worked. By October 3rd of this year I was down to 184 pounds and 19.9% body fat. I ran 2 Marathons and competed in the Mad Hawk, a 3 day Ironman distance triathlon where I completed the 180 km bike portion of the race an hour better than my time last year. Since then I have devoted more time to weight lifting. My weight has gone up slightly since muscle weighs more than fat. I now weigh 193 lbs but my body fat is down to 15.7%. Since I first started working with my Dietitian she has given me much more information on healthy eating, blood pressure reduction, and eating for endurance events. Her program is easy follow and stay on. I eat everything I did before just smaller portions. Sure every once in a while I pig out on something, but as my Dietitian says it is what you do 90% of the time that counts so don’t worry about one meal here or there. I don’t write down everything I eat each day anymore because making healthy choices has become more or less second nature. I think people as a rule underestimate what they eat and overestimate the physical activity they do. The fad diets may work for a time but can you stick with them? Will you have energy to be active? Can you eat regular food or will you be buying special diet food? Will you be eating the same food as the rest of the family? I think sensible eating as my Dietitian prescribes is the only way to go.”

J.V.

“Almost a year has gone since I first contacted Health Stand Nutrition. My lifestyle was preparing me for an early grave. I was working one full time job as well as subcontracting which used up a considerable amount of my time. I kept going by consuming large amounts of caffeine and taking pain killers to alleviate the headaches so I could handle the next day which held even more unrealistic expectations. Having so much on my plate lead me to grabbing fast food daily. My weight had sky-rocketed and once again, I was classed as obese. To top that, I had developed lactose intolerance and I had found out I had been anemic for several months. I also wanted to ensure that I am getting adequate nutrition to reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer & osteoporosis. By some stroke of luck, despite my excessive weight I had not developed high blood pressure or high cholesterol levels. My Dietitian did not give me a diet. She evaluated my eating habits. She provided me with a wealth of information. Most people see the big accomplishment as the weight loss. And they like to see that big number. I don’t want to tell how much I lost. I am still embarrassed about getting that heavy. I will say that I have lost somewhere between 35-40% of my original weight. Also, the number of pounds that I lost is not where I wanted to focus. That’s just cosmetic. Here are some numbers that are more deserving of a pat on the back.  About a year ago, I was totally out of breath trying to complete a 10 K hike with and elevation gain of 350 Meters. Six months after my first consultation with my Dietitian, I completed a 2 day 167 KM bike race. I have also gone on 34 hikes this year in the mountains (~480 KM with a total elevation gain of over 23 thousand meters. I got to go to places that I had not been before. I recently started trying indoor climbing. And I was recently introduced to snow shoeing. I think I’m hooked on both. The one thing that cannot be measured is the levels of energy, alertness and confidence that comes with getting healthier. And there no way I can describe the rush when I completed the bike tour or made it to the top of a climbing wall the first time. And the best photographer cannot capture what you get to see when you cross a mountain ridge.  I have discontinued subcontracting. I have not felt the loss of income – by the time I factored in how often I was eating out because I was too tired to prepare my own meals, I don’t think I was making anything. I have also completely given up caffeine and pain-killers and feel much more relaxed. I do give myself credit for what I have been able to do. It did not come without hard work. But I did find that the hardest part is the first month or so. After that, it becomes habit. My Dietitian helped by helping me with food plans to address my specific issues. She did not tell me to eat this or not eat this. She looked at what I wanted to accomplish and what I was willing to do to reach my goals and helped me develop my own plans – ones that I knew I would follow. While your goals may be completely different than mine, Health Stand Nutrition can help you come up with a plan to get you there.”

P.C.

“I have been a Registered Psychologist for 14 years working in the area of Eating Disorders. When I am first approached by a client suffering from an Eating Disorder, I always try to ensure they also make a connection with Health Stand Nutrition before I agree to take them on as clients. My reasoning for this is because the dietitians at Health Stand are realistic, down-to-earth, practical and beyond knowledgeable. Therefore, they are absolutely key in the recovery process.  

Between Jana Spindler and I’s collaboration this past decade, we have successfully helped many families with very complex eating disorder presentations. Without Jana’s wealth of food science expertise and her firm, yet warm approach, I’m not sure how far I could get with my clients. 

Jana provides sensible and attainable solutions, offers amazing advice, and wraps it up in warm, emotionally connected conversations. She validates what someone is going through all while educating, guiding and firmly directing the change that is needed.  It truly is the perfect balance for ED recovery. 

If you are even remotely interested in working with Health Stand or taking this group program specifically, let my testimonial convince you to sign up. The Health Stand team is what I consider to be the best in the business and I would trust anyone in their care.  Along with any knowledge or expertise they offer to families going through such a challenging time.”  

– Danelle Spence, Registered Psychologist @ Root Psychology   

“I admit I went to see a Dietitian with somewhat of a closed mind, thinking she was going to be some “granola feeding dietitian”. Was I surprised! My Dietitian’s practical approach and acceptance of human nature helped me to lose 40 lbs and 6 pant sizes; and this was the absolute easiest way to lower my cholesterol. The tailored program allows me to eat whatever I want. The ongoing consultation and having my wife join the program definitely made a difference in my life.”

Mike Podovinnikoff

“I learned how to leave dieting for life. I was taught how to intuitively eat. This was well over 6 years ago and I’ve never looked back. I also sent my son (age 11 at the time) in to get excited and to learn about meal prep and nutrition. He came out of it pumped for fruit and veggie smoothies. He can make a mean chicken finger dinner for us now!! Thanks team! I have and will continue to highly recommend working with your group!”

Jennifer Desilets

“Our family came to Health Stand seeking support and guidance for our adult daughter (JB) after she completed an extended eating disorder day program at Alberta Children’s Hospital (12 weeks). With the help of an excellent program, an incredible health team and her own remarkable determination, JB moved through and beyond suicidal thoughts, bulimia, and depression. Following the program, JB continued her recovery, meeting regularly with psychologists, a psychiatrist, an occupational therapist and medical doctors. Still dealing with anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, attention deficit disorder and anorexia, we felt JB needed ongoing nutritional support with someone she respected. One of JB’s psychologists recommended Health Stand.  

JB made a great choice inviting our dietitian, a highly equipped registered dietician, to be part of her recovery team. JB appreciated our dietitian because she called JB out on her “BS”. JB could not hide much from our dietitian, and this was crucial in JB’s progress. Lies, and manipulation of the truth were often used by the eating disorder. It was a relief to have another person on JB’s team that saw eating disorder for what it truly was – ever changing, multi-layered, difficult to grasp, and not attached to JB’s identity or value. Our dietitian validated the experiences we were having, while detecting and calling out the tactics or schemes of the eating disorder.  

With JB’s invitation and approval, there were no topics off the table. We were supported in our desire to be honest and vulnerable. Our dietitian encouraged questions and accepted the range of emotions that accompany recovery, while providing an open, honest, and respectful environment for our meetings. And whether we were experiencing a good day or a hard day, knowing we were always “on the same team”, was a valuable key in addressing the eating disorder.  

Our dietitian was great at providing suggestions to improve weekly outcomes. She not only challenged JB, but at times provided us as parents, with alternative actions and words to think about and/or implement. Our dietitian also encouraged us to connect with her with questions or concerns in between appointments. Knowing there was help available outside of an appointment was a huge relief. 

Having a strong, knowledgeable, and compassionate team was crucial in JB’s journey to recovery. We were thankful our dietitian recognized the value and importance of working collaboratively with other health professionals caring for our daughter. 

We found a family-centred approach toward recovery to be very beneficial, even as parents of an adult daughter. We have all learned a great deal over the years. Our relationship, which has always been loving, supportive and accepting, is now even richer and deeper! Learning about our strengths and areas to develop, helped us to grow into healthier individuals, resulting in a healthier family.  

JB now uses the various skills she has learned to be open and honest, to articulate her needs, advocate for herself, identity triggers, and to ask for help. We are so very thankful for JB’s progress! Her determination, joy and self-love, qualities the eating disorder tried to twist, shutdown and claim for itself, are now back where they belong, planted firmly in her beautiful heart and mind. 

Working with our dietitian has helped us to know and understand each other more fully, to see the various ways we all cope, deal with stress and handle our insecurities. We are a richer family because of all the help we have received. Now that JB has been doing well for some time, we as parents have taken a back seat, and encouraged JB and our dietitian to continue working together without our direct involvement. Having said that, we know if we ever have concerns and/or questions, our dietitian is available. And that is a blessing!” 

Carla

“As a fellow Dietitian, I often refer clients to the team at Health Stand Nutrition. I know they have a practical, holistic view of client’s needs. And help their clients to make lifestyle changes to feel better whether it’s through a healthier relationship with food, more organized kitchen or managing a health condition.”

Jennifer House, Registered Dietitian

“Some of the things I learned with my dietitian. I found my 4-week sessions with my dietitian very informative and helpful. I learned what kind of textures and fluid consistency are safe for my medical condition, how to eat at the dinner table sitting upright on a chair instead of standing up like I used to do. The idea of building balanced meals that include carbohydrates, vegetables/fruits, and protein, using equal amounts of each category is a great technique for satisfaction. The first time I tried it, I couldn’t believe how it helped me to feel full longer between meals. My dietitian imparts his knowledge in a kind, patient way and welcomes questions.  I plan to follow his advice since it has helped me enjoy my food more and feel stronger. Thank you.”

Diane Harris

“I was looking for guidance during my second pregnancy in an effort to educate myself on how to best care myself and understand nutrition. I have tried every fad diet out there and even when losing weight I realized none of it was sustainable and it left me feeling physically weak. I reached out to Health Stand Nutrition and I was assigned my dietician and through her I was able to learn a lot of useful information about nutrition. I finally understood why none of the fad diets will never stick or help in the long run.

I was also able to stave off gestational diabetes with my second pregnancy. I have been told it is very unlikely to not have gestational diabetes the second time after having it the first time. I believe it was due to the lessons learnt on how to eat nutritious food and also staying active during my pregnancy.

I believe Health Stand Nutrition is just what you need to educate yourself and transform your habits that lead to a healthy and sustainable lifestyle. There are tons of useful resources available and your dietician will always be willing to help you at any point in your journey :)”

Veena Jose

“I really enjoyed my sessions with my dietitian at Health Stand Nutrition. She taught me a lot and listened to me. She did not try to force her ways of thinking like dieticians have done in the past thinking that was best for me. I am currently using the tools she gave me and will be booking more sessions in the new year.  I highly recommend them.”

Courtney Franzon

“I am a recently retired, extremely active health and fitness nut. I’ve always felt that I’ve been pretty good about managing my food choices, but I didn’t know for sure. I came to Health Stand Nutrition looking for 3 things.1. Confirmation that what I was currently eating was overall the right approach. 2. A deep dive into how my current diet stacked up against the daily recommended values of all the macro and micro nutrients. 3. Develop a plan for how I could adapt and change my diet throughout the aging process. And I can tell you that they absolutely delivered on all 3 fronts! I’m now more confident than ever in my nutrition as I look to enjoy great health for years to come.

From the initial 15 minute consultation, to the 3 hours spent picking the brain of the sports nutritionist that was assigned to me, I felt like I was heard every step of the way. 1. I wanted confirmation that my current diet was in general pretty good. Check. I wanted a deep dive into the macro and micro nutrients that I was currently getting and needed to get. Check. I wanted a plan for the future as I head into my retirement years as an extremely active fitness nut. Again, check.

In my experience, Health Stand Nutrition will definitely give you want you want and need to satisfy your nutritional goals.”

Trent Doell

“Thank you to my dietitian for all their efforts in helping me with my issues. Very much appreciated all the tips and solutions to what I have been dealing with. Love the new recipes my dietitian got me into and have tried a lot of them. I am sleeping better and have had less stomach pain. What a relief!! My dietitian also inspired me to bump up my cardio and as a result I am beginning to see my weight reduce.”

Thanks again,

Marge Sealock

“My dietitian always explains information in great details very carefully and patiently. She is ready to spend time to clarify and get across all the facts to her patient, even better than the dietitians at the hospital. More importantly, she gives detailed session notes after each session,  allowing further reading on our own, thus enhancing confidence of the patient under her medical care. My dietitian is indeed a very knowledgeable, mindful and responsible dietitian.”

Jenny & Dixon Lok

“My dietitian is knowledgeable and very helpful. He is good at his work. I personally trust him for my diet without any questions. If you are looking for nutritionist,  and confused about whom to select, I highly recommend everyone to go for him. He won’t disappoint your expectations. Apart from his professional work, he is kind and listens actively.”

Miyu Vaghasiya

“Both my dietitians were such a great resource and support. They helped me to identify my unique concerns, and find the best person and resources to help me achieve my goals. Since working with the team at Health Stand I feel better prepared to enjoy balanced meals that meet my specific needs, identify and work to avoid any triggering foods for my IBS symptoms, and how to maintain my goals in the long term. I would highly recommend Health Stand to anyone who is seeking the support of a registered dietician.”

Megan Eileen

“My sessions with my dietitian have been top-notch! She reads me well and discerns what it is I’m asking, where my confusion lies, and what information I need in order to make good food choices. She provides diagrams and links to further explain what she’s teaching me. I could not have successfully navigated pre-diabetes without her help!”

Patchwork Peanut

“Met with my dietitian and was very impressed. She was incredibly knowledgeable and spent the time to walk me through the details of what I needed to focus on for my goals and we developed an action plan. She made sure I had everything I needed and we even ran over time to make sure we accomplished everything. Highly recommend for anyone looking to level up their nutrition game!”

Chris Wallace

“I am a psychologist in private practice and it is very important to me that my clients have the best care with other health care professionals. For that reason Health Stand Nutrition is my only source for exceptional Dietitians. Andrea and her team provide highly knowledgeable, compassionate, and real world support to my clients who require assistance with food lifestyle. I trust my clients to them and you would be in excellent hands making them part of your health care team.”

Adele Fox, Psychologist

“I can’t recommend my dietitian enough. She was recommended to me by Anne Marie, another nutritionist at Health Stand, and I’m so grateful I found her. Working with her has truly been life-changing. Unlike any nutritionist I’ve seen before, she really took the time to understand my relationship with food, the social pressures around it, and how these beliefs are shaped by culture. Her approach wasn’t just about nutrition—it was about healing, unlearning, and rebuilding in a way that felt personal, supportive, and empowering.

What stood out most was how she challenged my perspectives in a way that felt safe and constructive. As she got to know me, she recognized that what I really needed was a healthier, more balanced relationship with food—one based on joy, gratitude, and sustainability rather than rigid structure or strict rules. Her personal approach made all the difference, tailoring her guidance to what actually resonated with me. More than anything, I felt truly cared for. She created a space where I felt understood, supported, and never alone in the process. Her insight into how societal expectations, social media, and feminism shape our relationships with food and body image made our work together even more impactful.

I’m so grateful for her support and the lasting impact she’s had on my life.”

– Shayna May

“I am a family physician who sees patients with a myriad of eating concerns – from wanting to know how to plan healthy meals for active families, to weight loss, to eating disorders, and so on. I cannot recommend the Health Stand team highly enough. I have worked with (and been to!) other Dieticians in the past and too often find that they just ask for food logs and make suggestions that are easily obtained online or in books. The Dieticians at Health Stand offer much more than just telling clients what they “should be eating.” In contrast, the team really does more of a counselling practice, and they work hard to help their clients learn more about why their eating habits may be off track and not optimal for them, as well as helping people to effect change at a deep level that, most importantly, is sustainable for lifetime health.”

Dr. Deb Putnam, Family Physician

“It was life changing information. My dietitian identified nutrition problems from a physiological and psychological perspective and gave evidence-based solutions. She is also actively upgrading her knowledge to better understand the topic of nutrition. She is a great pick for somebody who is actively looking to change and improve their eating habits for a healthier life.”

– Jay See

“I could not be more pleased. As a first-time user of nutritional services with a Registered Dietitian, I was unsure what to expect. After reading many great reviews on my insurance provider’s site, I chose Health Stand Nutrition, who matched me with my dietitian based on my goals.

After just four sessions, I’m already seeing real progress toward my objectives and feeling better than I have in years. My dietitian’s calm, practical approach and expert advice have been essential to my success. I’ve learned a lot about nutrition and my own habits, and I now feel much more in control. I’m enjoying healthy foods that boost my energy and am making excellent progress toward my weight goals. We’re now focusing on long-term sustainability.

If you’re serious about improving your eating habits and overall health, I definitely recommend Health Stand!”

– Jim Downie

“My dietitian was very pleasant and easy to talk to. Being a 62 year old that in the last year has put on a few pounds, I made the decision to talk to a dietitian. Best thing I could have done. This is when I met my dietitian through health stand nutrition. She has taught me ways to deal with those after supper cravings, how it is very important to have carbs for brain health. I highly recommend speaking with my dietitian or someone else from Health Stand Nutrition with eating issues. I feel like I can now control my eating and even with a bad day I know I can get back on track. My dietitian has given me tools, I can’t thank you enough 💕”

⁃ Cheryl Johnson

“I cannot recommend my dietitian and the team at Health Stand Nutrition Consulting highly enough. Deciding to work with a dietitian was the best health decision I have made, and my dietitian truly exceeded all expectations.

Unlike generic programs or generalized dieticians, she took the time to deeply understand my lifestyle, health history, and, most importantly, my goals. The approach was incredibly personalized, focusing not just on my diet but on sustainable habits with food and my other health issues. There was never any restrictive or judgmental language, only thoughtful guidance.

Within 6 weeks, I saw tangible results, including improved energy, better sleep, and successful management of my overall health. I am confident in making food choices that support my long-term well-being.

My dietitian is an exceptional communicator, very patient, encouraging, and always thinking of new ways to help me. If you’re seeking an expert who offers true partnership and sustainable change, look no further. Thank you for changing my relationship with my health for the better!”

– Angie Babcock

“Some of the best money I’ve ever spent.

The intake interview matched me with an excellent fit. My dietitian was wonderful, met me where I was at, and provided excellent guidance and amazing support. So grateful to Health Stand Nutrition for their help.”

– Lauren Lautner

“My dietitian has helped me a great deal with not only changing the way I eat, but also how I look at food and dieting. She really helped to dismantle years of beliefs in diets, misinformation on food and nutrition, and the importance of self worth. She provided me with right information on food nutrition based off of research studies and her expertise. I have more freedom with eating now than I ever did, and I also eat more healthy than I ever did.

Best decision I made for myself and my health was to consult with a registered dietician, someone who has a degree in the field, rather than random diets I’ve come across the internet. My only regret was not doing this sooner and wasting time and money on fad diets that left me hungry and nutritionally depleted. I highly recommend Health Stand Nutrition. One of the best investments I’ve done for myself. Thanks to my dietitian for changing my relationship with food.”

– Michelle Maurage

“I worked with Health Stand Nutrition for support with IBS management and am so grateful that I did. My dietitian helped me to get a better understanding of how food can better support my digestion and also made it possible for me to re-incorporate many foods I love but had cut out in an effort to improve my symptoms. She also encouraged me to connect with other allied health professionals to get diagnostic clarity on other potential causes for my symptoms, giving me an additional layer of treatment (and relief) that had been overlooked by my physician. In addition to being knowledgable and kind, my dietitian went above and beyond in offering notes, evidence-supported resources, and helping me navigate a new diagnosis over the course of our work. I will absolutely reconnect if I need additional support in the future, and highly recommend connecting with Health Stand if you are trying to sort through lots of contradictory messaging about what will and will not help your digestive concerns.”

Bevan

“I am extremely excited to write a review for Health Stand and my dietitian (our Health Guru). From the Initial contact, to having the sessions with my dietitian, was quite seamless. My wife and I had five sessions and each built on to the previous one. I was amazed at how our dietitian could always detect a question coming and would always give a solid knowledgeable answer in return. She is very positive, upbeat, patient and easy to talk with. The follow up notes were a surprise to me after the first session, as I realized that her work in the session was only partially completed and she still had to bundle it all together for us to grasp the concepts.

The knowledge that we have gained is truly priceless and will be part of our living for the future. My only real regret is that I did not spend the money and do this years ago!! Highly… Highly recommend Health Stand Nutritional Consulting and my dietitian (or any of the Consultants), as this is truly a great company and equally good people.”

Andrew Lipinski

“When I first came to see my Dietitian, I was stuck inside my head and definitely feeling a post binge hangover. This was not an unusual feeling. The box inside my mind had some pretty stringent rules and a vision of the perfect me. It was a roller coaster ride of high’s and low’s. Eating “clean”, obsessing over ingredients to “slipping up” and demolishing whatever was in the pantry. My life depended on a good eating day or bad eating day. Throughout our sessions, my Dietitian helped me navigate through the voices to a place of self-compassion. A truly soulful way of not only eating but living. Today I have invaluable tools that will be there for the rest of my life.”

Sam K.

“My dietitian was knowledgeable and very accommodating to my needs. I had learned so much from our sessions. She took the time to listen to my concerns, understand my challenges, and provide actionable advice that felt achievable rather than overwhelming. Her knowledge and expertise are evident, but what truly impressed me was her supportive and encouraging approach.

I saw noticeable improvements in my energy levels, digestion, and overall health within weeks of implementing her recommendations. The meal ideas were delicious, and I never felt deprived or restricted.”

Mai Nguyen

“I’ve struggled with a lot of eating problems, misinformation, fad diets, expectations ect… my entire life, and for years I thought I could figure it all out on my own and got no where productive. But my dietician, was an angel. So knowledgeable and patient, kind, funny, relatable, understanding and encouraging. She has genuinely changed my life for the better. And if anyone is considering this business or these people I recommend them with my entire heart and soul. 10 stars. Thank you!”

– Devon Crewe

“We have used Health Stand at two different times for two different family members and they have been excellent. The online sessions are extremely convenient and their app keeps all the follow up notes in one place. Their advice is very practical and they encourage the inclusion of soulful foods, making it easy to follow and not feel too restricted. Highly recommend Health Stand for sound, scientific and practical advice! I also appreciated their flexible billing options and their receipts were accepted by our insurance.”

Hanna and Richard Janzen

“I highly recommend Health Stand Nutrition. First and foremost, my dietitian made me feel safe. She’s the first person to actually listen to what was going on, and not only provide amazing help and advice, she gave me empathy. I have Endometriosis, IBS and Fibromyalgia. She took care in providing help and relief in all areas. If you’re looking for help with nutrition for any reason, Health Stand Nutrition is where you need to go.”

– Veronica Sutherland

“My dietitian was fantastic at working with us on our family dietary needs. She balanced my fitness nutrition goals, my wife’s different nutrition goals, and our kids. It all worked into a menu plan that met all of our needs without making 4 meals every night. We generated with our dietitian’s help a 4-week rotating menu plan, standard grocery shopping lists, and freezer emergency options when we aren’t feeling like the menu plan that night. We’ve already noticed less time is spent thinking about what to make for dinner and just following the plan.”

– Austin Muir

“My dietitian truly helped me in more ways than I could’ve imagined. Food is always a hard topic that many people shy away from, including me. But my dietitian made me feel comfortable and extremely confident in what she taught me. I went from being unable to nourish my body due to medical complications and am now unrecognizable. She has taught me to listen to my body and to find what works best for me because, at the end of the day, everyone is different and has different needs. I could go on and on, but truly, my dietitian taught me to love myself just the way I am, and I will be forever grateful to her and all of the incredible people who work at Health Stand.”

– Elizabeth Morris

“My Dietitian did a great job of understanding the way I work and providing insightful comments for ways of rethinking food, preparation and planning. She was a great listener and extremely easy to open up to (very approachable). I really enjoyed how we managed to change habits, set a strong baseline with good food preparation and planning, and providing a different perspective on nutrition seemingly without trying. I now feel I have a great system in place that I can build from. I think I came in expecting to be told that in order to get to my goals, I should do x, y and z – and follow a, b and c meal plans or e.g. don’t eat after 9pm / stop eating bread etc. i.e. a more prescriptive approach. Instead what we did was to look at my relationship with food, using the way I think, and a few simple mindset changes – a hugely more effective process.” 

David Pickup

“My dietitian has been incredible to work with. From the beginning, she truly listened, not just to my goals, but to my concerns, challenges, and our needs as a family. She consistently brainstormed ideas and practical solutions with me, helping us find ways to make healthy eating feel sustainable and realistic rather than restrictive.

She shared thoughtful tips and strategies that fit into real life, and she helped me let go of a lot of negative, all-or-nothing thinking around food and diet culture. Her approach made healthy eating feel like a lifestyle, not a temporary plan.

She is warm, easy to talk to, and I always felt heard and supported. I’m so grateful for her guidance and would highly recommend her to anyone looking for compassionate, realistic, and positive nutrition support.”

– Nicole Bell

“Health Stand Nutrition helped me change my approach to food. Meeting with my dietitian for 4 sessions via Zoom was a welcome option as I recover and go through treatment for a medical condition. My dietitian was empathetic and very knowledgeable! She really listened and ensured she was understanding what I was saying.

She taught me how to eat consciously, and without guilt. I came away with a better understanding and plan to add more protein, approach food as nourishment and be kinder to myself. This was a huge revelation for me. Still a work in progress but overall I feel less restricted and happier.”

– M.I

“Both of my dietitians were absolutely fantastic and extremely knowledgeable of eating disorders and nutrition. I worked with one many years ago as I worked through very bad anorexia and am currently working with another for similar struggles.

This is a journey that is up and down and Health Stand has consistently been there for me.

My former dietitian is energetic, kind and knew when to challenge and encourage me, and my current dietitian is so compassionate, understanding and consistently supportive and knows when to both encourage and challenge my thoughts and beliefs.

I will forever be grateful for the support and guidance I have had and am currently getting at Health Stand.”

– Emma Mackintosh

“My dietitian was amazing to work with and learn from! She helped so much with learning different tactics and with my overall understanding of nutrition. Everyone was so easy to work with to set up appointments and reschedule when needed!”

– Devon Bishop

“I wanted to learn to eat without guilt, and fill my body’s needs, outside of diet culture. Their approach works for me. Thanks to my dietitian!”

– Lin

“I’ve been working with my dietitian since last July, and the impact on my nutrition and overall well-being has been significant. Through our online sessions, I’ve built sustainable habits and a much stronger foundation of knowledge around food and fueling my body.

I am healthier, more consistent, and more confident in my choices. While I still have more to learn, the changes so far have been truly transformational. I’m very grateful for my dietitian’s guidance and support.”

– Karey Reilly

“5-Star Customer Service Experience

I had such a wonderful experience with the intake team from the Health Stand Nutrition team! From the moment I reached out, she was incredibly friendly, responsive, and genuinely eager to help. Whether it was answering my questions, helping me navigate booking options, or making sure I was connected with the right dietitian, they made the entire process feel effortless.

She goes above and beyond in making sure you feel supported and heard. Even when I had a last-minute change, they handled it with such grace and kindness—it really stood out and made me feel valued as a client.

In a world where great customer service is rare, she is a true gem. Health Stand Nutrition is lucky to have her, and I’m so grateful for the positive and seamless experience she provided!”

Dhruvi Bhatt

“Juno House is a specialist therapy center, specializing in working with Adolescent girls and young women with anxiety-based issues, which include: eating disorders, self-harm, depression, and obsessive-compulsive behaviours.

We partner with the dieticians at Health Stand Nutrition for all of our Eating Disorder client families.  Jana Spindler has gone above and beyond the regular training as a dietician to immerse herself in the emotional world of eating disorders. She is trained in Emotional Focussed Family Therapy and uses it extensively in her work with our families. Jana has also taken the step of completing her Masters in Counselling to add an even deeper level to her work with girls and parents with an Eating Disorder in the family.

The Caregivers United group program will be invaluable for parents who are navigating an eating disorder with their child.  You will learn,  and be challenged to question what you might have understood about eating disorders, and you will be given tools to lean into the emotional world of your child to help them step out of the world of eating disorders.”

Lois Sapsford, MSW, RCSW, | Director at Juno House

“My dietitian is absolutely wonderful. So compassionate, she rides for you and is your cheerleader. She broke things down in a really digestible way, making the homework feel achievable and not overwhelming. I could go on to write a million other positive things about my experience and my dietitian herself,  but there isn’t enough time in the day. Thank you for absolutely everything. We’ll see each other again soon!”

– Jasmine’s Kristine

“I came some time ago for a few nutrition counseling sessions as my blood sugar was a bit high.  I am happy to report that my blood sugar is back to normal as I have made big changes in my choices and portion sizes.  I have lost about 20 lbs. in less than a year and while I still have a ways to go, I am doing well.  Thanks for all of your help!!  I’ll apprise if I think I need any “tune up” sessions with you down the road.”

Denis Gagne

“This is the first time I feel satisfied; my cravings have diminished dramatically, and I have a whole new relationship with food. I am eating guilt-free for the first time in my life. My energy has also dramatically increased and I feel great!”

Rhonda Jenkins

“Working with my dietitian has truly been life changing! My initial intent on signing up with Health Stand Nutrition was to get help losing weight. With my dietitian’s incredible wealth of knowledge, guidance and support, she has taken me on a journey that has transformed my unhealthy views and beliefs into healthy ones and to finally get off that rollercoaster of dieting. While it is a journey and a hard one, I am learning that self acceptance and love will nourish my body and mind and ultimately lead me to a healthy me. It is so devastating the damage that we do to our selves trying to fit an unrealistic mold that someone has arbitrarily decided is the right look. If you are looking to break away from that cycle, I highly recommend Health Stand Nutrition. Everyone that I have dealt with has been fantastic. I wish I could give 100 stars. An absolutely exceptional company!!”

Anne Marie Shutt

“Working with my dietitian has been literally life changing.

I came to Health Stand Nutrition Consulting with heavy anxiety related to blood sugar levels. The anxiety I had related to food became more and more overwhelming as I attempted to navigate nutrition on my own. Information online can be extremely overwhelming, not to mention the food documentaries.

The more I tried to navigate nutrition on my own, the more anxious I became. I was terribly confused to the point I was not able to eat at all. Eating progressively became more and more difficult as everything I was eating would contribute to my anxiety.

I booked four sessions with my dietitian. Where do I even begin.

Firstly, my dietitian is hugely compassionate. She listens well and cares – you can feel that care extended in the sessions. Aside from that, my dietitian is so incredibly knowledgeable in food science and helped me understand that nourishing my body should be an instinctual process. With each session, my confidence gradually grew more and she helped me reestablish my love and relationship with food by providing explanations in terms I could easily understand.

My dietitian is personable in that she encouraged me to eat what I like, including food from my South Asian culture. She taught me to follow my instincts and how to measure signs to look for should there be any reason for concern. She was instrumental in the process of getting me out of my head and back to the present. My dietitian also enthusiastically let me share each stage of my progression with her, cheering each victory on with me – that was amazing! She genuinely was happy I was getting better!

As of today my disordered eating is behind me and my relationship with food has been reestablished –  with greater understanding and confidence than I could ever imagine. I also have very detailed notes from our sessions I often review to reiterate the information she provided. I cannot say enough good things. This has been life changing for me and I can’t thank my dietitian enough. I truly can’t. Some are gifted at what they do, and I firmly stand by she is just that.

I will always be thankful, and should anything come up in the future, I definitely know where to reach out.”

– Aradna Gulati

“I highly recommend my dietitian at Health Stand Nutrition Consulting Inc. She is extremely knowledgeable and professional, and her approach to health feels genuinely holistic. She combines solid, evidence-based guidance with thoughtful emotional support, which made the whole experience both reassuring and empowering.

After each consultation, my dietitian provided clear and helpful follow-up notes that captured our conversation and included references to additional resources. These summaries made it much easier for me to study and put her advice into practice in a realistic and sustainable way.

There is a common misconception that nutritionists are “food police,” but that couldn’t be further from the truth here. my dietitian introduced a wide variety of healthy, enjoyable food options and offered practical guidance gently and without judgment when caution was needed. She works with you as a health partner, not a disciplinarian.

Even though her services were not covered by my insurance, I consider this money very well spent and a worthwhile investment in my long-term health.

I would also want to recognize my other dietitian, who provided the initial consultation when Angela was not immediately available. my other dietitian addressed and put to rest many concerns I had developed during my extensive research, particularly regarding protein and oxalates in relation to osteoporosis management. I left that meeting with a great sense of relief and reassurance.”

– B O

“The Dieticians at Health Stand Nutrition help you to take action on the science behind eating well by making it practical, understandable, and fun. Their office is cozy and not at all clinical or intimidating. I felt like I was sitting down with a really smart, caring friend who wanted to help me make the best choices for my lifestyle and food preferences. Andrea and her team really are the best in the business.”

Marty Avery

“I didn’t realize how strong my “diet mentality” was, and all the rules I had in my head about food. I was in a cycle of reward/punish/binge/cringe. I booked with your business very reluctantly, on the repeated advice of my doctor, to get my slowly rising cholesterol levels in check. I thought I knew everything about food, and my behaviour with food, but I was definitely re-schooled. My weight is creeping down, I feel good about my diet, exercise, body image, and lifestyle.”

Amy Floyd

“Exceptional experience with my Dietitian! I was overwhelmed with conflicting information about nutrition, but Paige took the time to explain everything clearly and simply. She created a personalized meal plan that fit perfectly with my lifestyle and dietary preferences. She helped me in choosing the food which is easily available in the stores I shop. Highly recommend for anyone looking to improve their diet with a knowledgeable and approachable expert.”

Hemendra Gusain

“I had 4 appointments with my dietitian at Health Stand Nutrition, and I had a really positive experience working with her. She was very easy to talk to, knowledgeable, and always brought such positive energy to every session.

My dietitian took the time to understand my personal health goals and gave me specific, practical advice and tips that I could actually apply in my daily life. She answered all of my questions thoroughly and made me feel comfortable throughout the process.

Thanks to her guidance and support, I feel like I achieved the goals I set for myself. I would highly recommend my dietitian to anyone looking for a supportive and professional dietitian and nutrition counsellor!”

“I found my Dietitian warm, funny, and skilled at teaching nutrition concepts without the overwhelm. The general approach of each session was to mix science with emotion, which was exceedingly effective in helping me shift my perspective on food from one of anxiety to one of joy and curiosity.”

Erin Kronstedt

“I just went through my annual check up and my cholesterol levels couldn’t be any better (both LDL and HDL). Diet, exercise, and above all, fiber intake did the trick for me. Thank you so much!”

Ray Wah

“I wish more Dieticians understood the complexity of people’s relationship to food like you all do! My Dietitian was incredibly responsive and felt more like a food therapist than a Dietician, which is exactly what I needed. My Dietitian pointed out food rules that I had disguised very well to myself as a preference such as not “liking” certain foods that I associated with weight gain. I learned that literally none of the food rules I had created for myself were based in any sort of legitimate science about food, but were all part of my anxiety around food and eating and unsuccessful attempts to control my body. My Dietitian understood right away that this was not about healthy eating for me or about issues with digestion (this is what I initially told her I needed help with). I am very well versed in “healthy” foods and “eating clean”… this was about seeing food as just food and my body as just a body, and taking away the power of both to influence how I feel about myself, something that was a daily (hourly) struggle for me for many years. With my Dietitians support, I came to understand that my digestive issues are a direct result of the anxiety I felt when I ate – I was ruminating about what I should and shouldn’t eat so much and feeling guilty if I ate too much or the “wrong” thing that I made myself physically unwell. I learned so much it is difficult to capture it all succinctly! It was all so helpful.”

Alix Gordon-Moran

“I’ve never been to a dietician before. What I received was far more advice and knowledge that I had initially expected. My Dietitian is extremely knowledgeable, excellent at communicating, and just plain fun to talk to. I’ve learned so much in just three appointments. I can actually feel the differences in my body after making the changes recommended to me. I’m far more aware of how to read my body’s reactions to certain foods. I have learned how to put together healthy delicious meals that aren’t repetitive. I don’t have to deprive myself of anything nor do I coerce myself into eating things I dislike. I’d rate this 6 stars instead of 5 stars on google reviews as my expectations were far over achieved! Thank you!”

Andre Perras

“I cook mostly whole foods and I watch very closely what I eat.  The problem was that there are things that I cannot have control over, such as social events, parties etc. I would often pre-eat, so I could skip the food being served, or I would opt to not eat at all, but then I would arrive home starving. And yet, with such a restricted, health focused diet, I could not seem to lose “the last 15 pounds”, something that I have struggled with my entire life. I measured my food, kept a food diary, weighed myself daily and every time I ate something it would affect my mood and I would then focus on exercise to mitigate the impact of the food I ate. I thought I was doing it right, yet all I thought about every day was food and the stress of uncontrollable situations became too much for me. That is when I reached out for help. I was very lucky to find Health Stand Nutrition – my Dietitian is absolutely awesome. I wasn’t sure what a Registered Dietician would do, but I figured they would simply help me figure out portion sizes and types based on my activities and perhaps they would identify how many times per week I could “food splurge” and still maintain or lose weight… and I’d be on my way. Instead, my Dietitian helped me realize that I had some (my husband would likely say many) obsessive ways, and bottom line: I was a dieter; even though I did not realize it. We talked about an approach called Intuitive Eating. This was a methodology where I would need to “lose the rules”; I could no longer write down my meals, count carbs or list portion size, or weigh myself. It seemed daunting at first but with my Dietitians support and guidance, it was manageable.  My Dietitian taught me how to eat intuitively. She promised that if I was open to this approach I could be free of my obsession with food and that one day I would eat when I am hungry and stop when I am full. She created a world where no food was off limits. She provided me with resources, assistance and support to help to learn to listen to my body. I really had no idea how my old ways were impacting my life; I had created a world that revolved around food and I felt like I was in prison. I dreaded meals at other people’s homes and meals out to restaurants, where food that I had always deemed off limits was served. So the concept of Intuitive Eating seemed scary. If I allowed myself all these thing I have worked so hard to eliminate I feared that I would binge. But I don’t binge. It surprised me. I learned to savour food and if I don’t love the first bite, I don’t have a second. No foods are off limits and I actually realized that I don’t love all sweets and dessert, I now only eat it if it will satisfy me. I have increased energy, less mood swings, my clothes still fit and are even getting looser (but this isn’t even important anymore) and in fact my overall stress level has been reduced. I let go of the control and others can cook dinner in our house and I am ok with it. I can go to client lunches and industry events without fear of what they are serving. And the surprise is that I eat less overall and I am not hungry. There are easy days and there are a few hard days. But even a hard day Intuitive Eating is easier than a hard day dieting… because it’s ok to eat on the run, have full fat cheesecake or drink that glass of wine. No more unsatisfying “diet” substitutes. No longer depriving myself of food I like. All of this means I have less cravings and I eat less because I know I can have it again. I know that not eating “perfectly”  is perfect and food will no longer impact my mood or affect my end goal, which is to be healthy. A huge weight has been lifted and I am so much happier. I can honestly say I will never diet again- what a freeing statement! I really can’t say enough amazing things about my Dietitian and what she did for me and for my family who have also benefited from the Intuitive Eating approach taught by Health Stand Nutrition.”

Jennifer Desilets

“Health Stand Nutrition helped me change my fundamental approach to food. My Dietitian was warm, empathetic, and very knowledgeable. She taught me how to eat consciously, and without guilt. This was incredibly helpful because I had never thought in that way before. I learned sustainable strategies for shopping, cooking, and eating that I have incorporated into my life. It was definitely money well spent for me. The coaching was inspiring, action-oriented, and non-judgmental, and it made a sustained impact on me, even years later.”

Bruce Sellery, Business Journalist, Television News Anchor and Personal Finance Coach 

“Prior to visiting my Dietitian, I had adopted an extremely low carb diet in order to lose 50 lbs, and while that diet worked for me I knew that a low carb diet was unsustainable.  So I wanted to get advice on a balanced diet that would give me the nutrition I needed without putting the weight back on.  Although I am fairly savvy when it comes to diet and nutrition, I found my Dietitian to be extremely supportive, motivational, and knowledgeable.  The 3 sessions were very worthwhile and I still refer to them on a regular basis.  The fact is that 7 months after losing all that weight I have only put on 5 lbs, thanks to a sensible balanced diet and the motivation that my Dietitian instilled in me. I also had BPH (prostate enlargement).  My Dietitian did some research for me on what foods to take, and what to avoid.  7 months later, the BPH is totally gone, which just shows that many ailments can be treated by diet. Whether you are looking to lose weight, keep the weight off, or get your health sorted, you will find a friend in Health Stand Nutrition.”

P.H.

“Our stable family home was rocked to the core when our daughter was diagnosed with an eating disorder. How could something like this happen to our joyful, funny, generous girl? Feelings of terror and helplessness washed over us daily. Grappling with the enormity of our daughter’s struggles and how we could help her was daunting. A friend had recommended Health Stand to us as they had helped her when she struggled with an eating disorder. Our Dietitian immediately made a connection with our daughter. Her kind and understanding way instantly built trust in all of us. Our Dietitian instinctively knew how to encourage our daughter, asking meaningful questions and providing helpful ideas on navigating the day-to-day struggles of simply eating. With our Dietitian’s support, we could see a path out of disordered eating. Her guidance gave us, as parents, a role in how we could effectively help our daughter. With her encouragement, we were empowered and no longer felt helpless and alone. Thanks to our Dietitian’s help, our daughter made excellent gains back to health. As she recovered weight, she was determined to put disordered eating behind her and seek therapy to address the root of her mental health issues. Our daughter fought hard in her recovery, and we credit a large part of that to our Dietitian. She inspired a will to get better in our daughter, and for that, we will always be grateful. Now our daughter is in her first year of university at the University of Victoria. She is a typical first-year university student navigating her way through the ups and downs of school. The food menu in residence is interesting, but our daughter consistently finds food she likes and navigates the menu with no issues. Although living through an eating disorder was hell, we would say that it made our daughter reflect on her challenges and helped her see that life can be difficult, but with honesty and the help of others, she can get through it ok.”

Sam B.

“As a busy mom working full time and feeding a growing family, I’m so glad I reached out to a Registered Dietitian at Health Stand. I was feeling overwhelmed by all the conflicting nutrition advice and wanted support with some health concerns. After a few sessions, I gained practical tips, helpful strategies, and a lot more confidence in the kitchen especially with feeding my teenage boys. The guidance was personalized, supportive, and never judgmental. I highly recommend Health Stand to anyone looking for practical, realistic nutrition advice!”

– Alee

“I have used HealthStand on 2 separate occasions for help with my diet and they are incredible. This time I saw my dietitan and she was wonderful. I worked through a lot with her and she was so helpful”

Kate Ukrainetz

“Has been great working with my dietitian. Very informative and helpful.”

Jason

“I came to Health Stand Nutrition at the advice of my psychologist. I was diagnosed with anxiety and tried many different avenues to get my mental health better, but nothing was working. I was malnourished and had been my entire life (age 37). My Dietitian took the time to explain things to me and help me understand just how important food is. Not only for nourishment, but how important it is to enjoy (and how fun and creative food can be). She understood all my concerns, she was very easy to talk to, and provided so many helpful tips. My mental health has done a complete 180 and I honestly can’t believe how much better I am feeling, simply because of proper nutrition and eating habits.”

Lee-Ann Wells

“I am so grateful for the onsite executive coaching of Health Stand Nutrition Consulting Inc. that our company, Walton Global Investments Ltd., decided to provide to the executives. Of course, I have always known that healthy eating is essential for overall long term health, but it has been with your instructions that I have committed myself to proper nutrition – and it’s working! As a result of these sessions, I am more productive, have more energy at work, and have learned not only what to eat, why and when, but also easy strategies to keep it up. My commitment to long term health has never been better or more fun. Thanks for sharing your expertise and putting me on the path to a healthy life.”

Leslie Fryers, Q.C., ICD.D, Executive Vice President Law, Walton Global Investments Ltd.

“Working with Health Stand Nutrition has been amazing! Their staff is incredibly knowledgeable and provides advice based on “wants” and not just “needs”. I highly recommend Health Stand Nutrition to anyone looking for a healthier lifestyle without sacrificing lifestyle.”

David Hensch

“By giving me a safe place to talk and examine what was or was not working in my life I came to see the opportunity to reduce controllable stress producing behavior which was impacting my body. Generally, I was amazed at the poise and understanding that my Dietitian provided in my sessions. She was empathetic and supportive of positive changes that I made, and understanding of those I didn’t make.”

Beatrice Wilhelm

“I love food. It stimulates each of the senses, keeps us energized toward our goals, yet, I’ve had a rollercoaster relationship with food that was largely based on fear and avoidance. That was until I received some spot-on nutrition education from a Registered Dietitian at Health Stand Nutrition. Working with my Dietitian to address a long-winded battle with anorexia nervosa has been inspiring and empowering. From a restrictive and rule-ridden approach to eating, I’ve developed a healthy and sustainable approach to meals and snacks that supports my goals to travel in the future. I peeled off labels that I thought would never unstick and allowed myself to explore economic, time-saving, and delicious recipes that work for me. If something didn’t’ work, there was space to learn from it, and continuous email feedback helped me stay accountable. I feel grateful for this ongoing support and keen to take on new challenges in my life. The program allowed me to take challenges at my own pace with the guidance of understanding and down to earth professional support.”

C.B.

“I’ve worked with the Health Stand Nutrition team for several years. I’m continuously impressed by the team’s knowledge of health and nutrition and their use of practical strategies to educate and help people live a healthier life. I deeply admire their dedication and commitment to helping individuals with serious health issues who need 1:1 support to make changes. I confidently recommend the services and knowledge of the Health Stand Nutrition team to help both individuals and organizations achieve a healthier, happier lifestyle.”

Catherine Russell

“My Dietitian has been such a positive influence in my eating disorder recovery. I have been able to incorporate grains, soulful foods (like ice cream) and enjoy a glass of wine once in a while. I am able to not go overboard and really tune in to my feelings and check in with myself. I’m setting boundaries for myself and trying to handle those situations by laughing and I find having a better diet is helping me be happier and have more energy and a clear mind. My Dietitian is so genuine, realistic, helpful and honest. I appreciate that she is so down to earth and really just amazing on how supportive and flexible she has been to my needs.”

R.B.

“We went to see a Sports Nutritionist at Health Stand Nutrition to find out how to deal with the near fainting spells my teenage daughter was experiencing during exercise. My daughter learned to take control of her own nutrition needs. As she is very athletic and active she needed to learn to combine enough nutrition and sustenance for her snacks before, during and after sports. Our Nutritionist really engaged my daughter, asked her questions, gave her the information and put her in charge of helping with food preparation, being responsible for making sure the correct ingredients are purchased on time and getting her to self-monitor how she feels each time she makes a change to her diet. I thought that was a wonderful approach, it helped us out a lot and it totally inspired my daughter to live a healthy life style and work towards fitness goals. Thank you very much!”

Monika Salkauska

“I spent three hours with my Dietitian when first diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. I learned more from her about food in those 3 hours than I had learned in all the years of my life. I love the newsletter, there is always something to learn.”

Peter Whitehead

“It was nice to meet with someone that has knowledge about Diabetes and Celiac Disease. What my Dietitian did for me was bring some products to my attention and get me motivated again to make the changes I need to make so that I can feel better again. I enjoyed my sessions with my Dietitian a lot and really appreciate the knowledge she has and the help she gave me to look at things in a more healthy way. She also made me realize that meals don’t need to be complicated and difficult, it really can be fast and easy. Thanks so much for her help.”

Lorie H.

“My dietitian has been amazing to work with. She truly understands what it’s like to have an ADHD brain and the diet struggles it comes with. I plan to book more sessions to continue working on this and couldn’t be happier with her support.”

Lisa Kedian.

“I had four lovely meetings with my dietitian. She was very knowledgable, helpful and her expertise really shone through.”

Lois McCormack

“I was on your webinar with you several months ago. If anything you’ve given me at least a mindset I can follow. It’s nice to hear that I don’t have to give everything up, and since then I’ve been trying harder than I’ve ever had, and I still have things when I want them, but I don’t do the whole cheat day thing, I think that throws a lot of people off. I’d rather just have a bit of something when I want it. I just hit 40 lbs gone, and am looking forward to the next 40. I’m still not perfect in how I eat, and I don’t think I can be, but what I’m doing seems to be working. And I still get my chocolate too…lol…I just try to have it a little at a time. Thanks for changing my mind.”

Read Glenn’s full story here
Glenn DuHart

“My Dietititan is amazing at her job and she truly cares about her clients. When I was doing terribly with my eating disorder and pregnant, she cared enough to follow up with my doctor. I don’t know what things would be like today if she hadn’t done that but I can’t thank her enough! She has helped me so much in developing habits and routines that help me to stay on track with my eating disorder recovery and stay motivated. She was also helpful in communicating with my husband the habits and routines that are helpful in order to stay on the path to recovery. She is easy to be open and honest with. Non-judgmental but also challenges me with eating disorder behaviours and beliefs that I hold on to.”

Lindsay F.

“I reached out after noticing how good my co-worker was looking and she told me about Health Stand Nutrition. I had quit smoking about 8 months prior and was noticing the scale going up and up. I was exercising and staying active and tracking calories, but the more I was keeping track of calories the more frustrated I became and more often than not I was over my daily limit and then would get upset…pig-out and double my daily limit. My Dietitian told me was quit counting calories and if you want a brownie, have the brownie (just be conscious about your decision). I always looked forward to our next sessions as we followed up on previous personal goals and set new ones. She offered advice, recipes, tips and tricks and every time I saw her was another “aha” moment that freed me more. Today, I am conscious about what I eat and drink, I eat balanced meals and never deprive myself. I feel great, I have more energy, and feel stronger. Oh and guess what….the scale has stopped going up. I highly recommend Health Stand for everyone! Even if you think you know it all…I can promise you, you don’t. I would like to send a huge thank you, I’ve never felt better!”

Josie Ballard

“My Dietitian was outstanding for her supportive guidance. At first it all seemed too easy – I could eat anything I want as long as I am responsible? Crazy. It took me a while to trust her ideas until I realized that ultimately it was up to me to get healthy – with her expert guidance. I now focus on enjoying tasty healthy food, committing to exercise, and not focusing on the scale. And the results? Never felt better, eat much more interesting and tasty food (thanks Mediterranean diet) and people tell me it looks like I have lost weight. Feels like it but I’m not checking. Don’t need to. Just loving this healthy feeling.”

Dennis Garnham, Artistic Director, The Grand Theatre

“Health Stand Nutrition counselled my whole family a couple years ago, and we still follow the easy 1-2-3 guidelines to eating healthy. They make eating healthy easy, and understands how to be realistic, practical and forgiving of not being perfect!”

Jacqueline Drew, CEO Tenato Strategy Inc.

“After being on a restrictive diet, I started to binge eat frequently and struggled to get back on track. My Dietitian was very kind, helpful and created a safe environment for me to share. She explained the science behind it and helped me get to intuitive eating. My weight fluctuated 20 lbs over a year, and for the past year and a half it has remained the same. Having worked on this, I have been doing great at my career and feel more wholesome and happy! I highly recommend Health Stand Nutrition for help.”

S.F.

“I’ve been working with them for the last 18 months. From my first virtual visit to set up my program to now, service has been professional and welcoming. I’ve been working via zoom with my dietitian 1:1 and it has been incredibly helpful. She has been informative, provided many excellent resources and is evidence based in her approach. Each session was geared to where I was at a the moment, and each ended with action steps that we identified together that best met my needs. If you are looking for dietitian support to help create a healthier relationship with food, I can highly recommend them.”

– Carla Gibson

“My Dietitian is so non-judgemental and great at listening. She works hard to teach me things and think outside the box in terms of ongoing challenges in negative situations related to my eating disorder recovery. I am always super motivated after my appointments. I am making really positive changes in my lifestyle that are making a big difference.”

Rachel K.

“Andrea has a longstanding, solid reputation with colleagues and clients because of her creative, compassionate, “let’s do it” approach to life and work. Her information is credible, evidence-based and better yet, presented in a way that sticks. I’ve referred clients to her practice for over ten years, knowing their personal struggles and questions will be greeted with zero judgement. Rather, Andrea understands that everyone’s relationship with food can sometimes be distressing or frustrating, and she welcomes a chance to explore solutions that are practical and joyful.”

Dr. Colleen Cannon, Clinical Psychologist, Co-founder Craving Change Inc.

“I now understand the requirements my body needs for my athletic goals / lifestyle and understand how to achieve these requirements.”

John B.

“I’m happy to report that I bought new pants that were 4 pants sizes smaller. I still wear my belt, but more for looks, as much as it is to hold up my pants. I wanted to thank you for the things that you taught me, I’ve implemented many things on a daily basis and continue to do them.”

Jane Weston

“My overall experience with Healthstand has been phenomenal! Right from the beginning, I felt like I was at the right place to make real changes in my life that matter and will eventually lead to a sustainable healthy lifestyle. The intake coordinator, was friendly and professional. She took the time to help me understand the process and ensure that the program I selected was the best fit for my needs. She made time over her own conflicting priorities to ensure that I felt supported right from the start and answered all my questions. She connected me with my dietitian. My sessions with my dietitian were insightful and amazing. She partnered with me right off the bat on this journey and became my sounding board as well as my coach to ensure that the choices I made fit my goals and were value add to my lifestyle. She encouraged me to bring my best while being empathetic to the multitude of responsibilities I was juggling in my life. The staff at Healthstand are amazing people who want you to succeed. They don’t just support you for the sessions you sign up for but are very much available to be your long term support if you ever need it. Thank you Healthstand for everything you have done for me.”

– Nidhi Manohar

“My Dietitian was supportive and comforting, funny and knowledgeable. Throughout our assessment, we discussed portion sizes, what constitutes a healthy meal and snack, caloric intake and energy levels. She gave me tips about integrating regular snacks into my meal plan and a slick tracking tool to record them as well as to manage changes I am making to my diet. I felt we were in partnership regarding my health and wellness and we came up with a plan which is reasonable, sustainable and tailor-made for me. If you are looking for a Registered Dietician to help move you forward on your path to wellness, I would highly recommend Health Stand Nutrition.”

Colleen Biondi

“I went to Health Stand Nutrition for help to gain weight. I ate meals but could not gain weight. My Dietitian listened to my concerns and understood my problem. She made me feel at ease and I felt that she was interested in my concerns and could help me. She gave me a meal planning package to help build balanced meals and healthy snacks. She wrote out suggestions so I had notes to refer to when I returned home. I was especially pleased when she gave me recipes to get me started on my road to healthy eating. I also enjoyed my sessions. We chatted and had a few laughs. My Dietitian knows about nutrition and understands people. I would highly recommend Health Stand Nutrition to anyone needing help in planning and eating nutritional meals.”

Diane Harris

“I originally went to see my Dietitian with a desire to gain control of a binging problem. I have always been an all or none eater. A “good day” consisted of only healthy eating. No sugar, no treats, and very few carbs. If I “broke down” and had one cookie it then became a “bad day” and the eating was out of control and my whole day was bad. As a result I tried every diet and fad to lose weight. But the only thing I gained was even worse eating habits and more binging. Food consumed my mind and I found it hard to enjoy meal times. My Dietitian taught me how to not “diet” but eat the right amounts of a variety of food to feel full and satisfied. And most important she taught me that the grey area is OK. It’s okay to have a treat without guilt. I now have my bingeing under control and eat the right amounts of food to give me the energy I need. And I have a “treat” every day – in control – knowing that there’s always tomorrow to have it again. And for the first time in my life I am not totally consumed with what I’m eating. I can actually enjoy going out for dinner and preparing meals! I also feel confident I am teaching my daughters a healthy balance about food and eating. Thanks!”

Alanna

“I signed up for a registered dietician and requested one due to her previous rave reviews and I was not disappointed at all. My dietitian is very knowledgeable and provided me with a ton of useful information based on what I told her I was looking for. I had 4 sessions with her, which she was able to accommodate my schedule and each session was filled with info that created so much awareness for me. I have been able to come up with plans to help me achieve my goal. My dietitian is great about taking notes and sharing links post session which you can refer to, as a guide. She follows up on any action items that were discussed. She is very approachable and easy to talk to and never makes you feel bad for some goals that you were not able to achieve. She always puts a positive light on things and comes up with plans discussing with me, that are sustainable in the long run and not something that provides quick results. I am very happy with the sessions I’ve had with her and have left the sessions more knowledgeable and aware than I was before I started these sessions. A huge thank you to my dietitian! I would highly recommend her as your RD, if you are looking for one.”

– D S

“I have had a fantastic experience with my dietitian from Health Stand. I did 10 sessions and each one was very informative and helpful. My dietitian took the time to get to know me and quickly was able to make me feel comfortable sharing with her. Her methods really matched my personality which made the process go so smoothly as I was able to understand and integrate the strategies and information she was sharing with me. I appreciated how caring and practical she was and always felt supported and understood. While I was supplied with many resources and “homework” to review and complete, it never felt overwhelming or like busy work. All resources were highly applicable and actively functioned to help me attain the goals and level of understanding I was seeking. I would highly recommend Health Stand and my dietitian to anyone willing and wanting to understand nutrition and their relationship with food on a better level.”

Sadie Dumba

“Thanks to my Sports Nutritionists awesome advice on what to eat before and after workouts, I find that I always have the energy to continue on with my day, even after a very hard swim or a difficult day in the weight room. I have even noticed a difference in my competitive swimming as I now have more focus and more determination, which I’m sure is a result of the advice that my Nutritionist gave me. The plans are great because they incorporate small changes that seem to make huge differences in my day.  I loved her healthy alternatives to a few of the foods that I like. I also loved the recipes she gave me! Thank you again for all your help.”

Carla

“I went to see my Dietitian almost a year ago now with a cholesterol problem. After analyzing my current diet and changes that I already made, she was able to present a multitude of further choices that would help even further. One of the best things in the changes to my diet that I appreciated was that I was able to continue to eat a lot of the foods I like. I only had to change some of the preparation methods and quantity. With the changes we made to my diet as well as exercise, I was able to reduce my cholesterol by over one unit in only 3 months. My Dietitian is very positive minded, and helps you focus on what needs to be done to achieve your goal. At the same time you feel committed, not pressured, to do what it takes. Thank you very much.”

Bjorn

“It was life changing information. My dietitian identified nutrition problems from a physiological and psychological perspective and gave evidence-based solutions. She is also actively upgrading her knowledge to better understand the topic of nutrition. She is a great pick for somebody who is actively looking to change and improve their eating habits for a healthier life.”

– Jay See

“When I found that my weight gain was beginning to interfere with my lifestyle, I decided that it was time to engage some professional assistance. From the day that I first met my Dietitian, her bouncy enthusiasm for her work was infectious. She is a very knowledgeable professional who brings a down home approach to her advice. She works with her clients in a manner that best suits their needs. My Dietitian and I agreed on a reasonable objective and then developed a strategy to achieve it. The objective was to lose weight at a reasonable pace until I had the overweight problem under control. The strategy was for me to develop a better understanding of the nutritional value of various foods and how they worked together in the human body to aid in healthy living. We mixed the nutritional discussion with other lifestyle commentary which enabled me to put the whole issue in context. One thing that I felt was very important from the beginning was to have fun doing it and not to lose energy as a result of lowering my caloric intake, as I exercise regularly as well. In fact, eating smarter increased my energy level. My Dietitian had many helpful hints in day to day living which enabled me to make the “dieting” aspect of the strategy very manageable. The simplest piece of advice that my Dietitian gave me was that there wasn’t anything that I couldn’t eat while on the program as long as I understood what I was eating and the impact it would have on my progress. A simple, initial target to lose 5 -10 pounds turned into an updated goal of losing 30 pounds. When that was achieved over six months, without ever feeling hungry, I decided to go for 40 pounds, which is where I was many, many years ago. Having achieved that milestone, my Dietitian and I are now working on a strategy to stabilize my weight loss and to ensure that the eating habit improvements achieved are embedded into my normal routine. I recommend Health Stand Nutrition very highly to anyone who would like to better understand the value of the food they are consuming and to learn some helpful, customized hints to improve their eating habits in a healthy, user friendly, way.”

John Watson

“I was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure and wanted to get helpful advice to get me eating better and on the right track as soon as possible.  My wife found Health Stand and we gave them a call. They had me matched up with a nutritionist right away.  My nutritionist was wonderful, extremely helpful and very encouraging.  I feel I’m on the right path now to keeping my blood sugar and pressure under control and can maintain this way of eating without feeling like I’m losing out. Also, fantastic people on the office side of things too who took my info, got me setup with the nutritionist and got my invoice updated after every appointment so it could be submitted for reimbursement.  All around positive experience and would recommend Health Stand to friends and family.”

Matt Springer 

“My dietitian at Health Stand has been an incredible support for me over the past year. I signed up for the 18-session package because I have multiple food sensitivities, and understanding what I could eat let alone finding recipes that worked was a real challenge.

What I appreciated most was how genuine and compassionate her support was. Our sessions did not always follow a strict preplanned structure, and I truly valued that. She met me where I was at each time. My dietitian offered thoughtful suggestions, plenty of recipes, and steady encouragement to keep trying, even when many recipes still needed some adjustments to fit my sensitivities.

Before contacting Health Stand, I had worked with two other nutritionists both of them using ChatGPT, not the kind of support I was looking for. When I came here, I had a choice between two practitioners, and I very clearly chose the best one for me. My dietitian’s care, patience, and flexibility made a real difference, especially during the sessions where I rambled and needed space to process what I was going through.

Thank you for all of your support. I would absolutely recommend Health Stand to anyone looking for compassionate and personalized nutritional support.”

– Duane Marran

“I just wanted to share with you the measurable changes that have occurred in my health/life since our first meeting about three and a half months ago. My total cholesterol has dropped from 5.8 to 4.6, and my doctor tells me to expect a further substantial reduction over the next year or so. My weight has dropped approximately 13 lbs. so far. I find that I need about one to one and a half hours less sleep per night than I needed before, to have the same energy the next day. Lastly, my digestion improved. There was nothing wrong with it before, but now it is turbocharged! This is all pretty exciting stuff for me, and I attribute it 100% to the program that you laid out for me. I will continue to mention you to people who might benefit from the same thing you did for me.”

Pat

“My Dietitian has been very helpful with some blood sugar difficulties that I have been dealing with for years. She taught me how to eat in a way that keeps me full and ensures that my energy levels are high. Feeling light headed due to low blood sugar levels has been a consistent problem for me, probably since adolescence. I seldom experience this now, and if I do, I am now aware of what specific types of food to eat that are beneficial to me. I feel much healthier and through a combination of eating the proper foods, spacing meals and snacks appropriately and daily exercise I have lost 15 pounds – an added bonus I was not expecting. I have gone from being very close to having diabetes 6 months ago, to having current blood sugar levels that are normal. I am so pleased with the way my Dietitians advice has helped me create a healthier lifestyle.”

Barbara

“I originally came to see my Sports Nutritionist looking for assistance in attaining some very specific goals that I have struggled to achieve for more than 10 years, even with the assistance of other ‘nutritional professionals.’ I play professional lacrosse for the Calgary Roughnecks, and as a professional athlete I have found that the physical demands of my sport call for a very scientific approach to nutrition coupled with expert knowledge of sport-specific training routines. This truth combined with the natural hurdles of my vegetarian diet (I’ve been a vegetarian for over 15 years), have made my goals of weight-gain (and maintenance) very challenging. It was not until I begin nutritional sessions with my Sports Nutritionist that my objective of adding positive pounds (size and strength) in the amount of 15-20 lbs was realized. Moreover, I was able to achieve my goals in a much shorter time-span than I originally thought possible. Thanks to my Nutritionist, and her professional, sport-specific advice, I have achieved my weight-gain objectives, which has in turn greatly enhanced my game – all without compromising my dietary restrictions.”

John Kilbride, professional lacrosse athlete, Calgary Roughnecks 

“I readily admit that as it related to the ED, I couldn’t understand the value of a dietician when our therapist first suggested it. Our daughter was already seeing a therapist weekly and knew ALOT about food, nutrition, and healthy eating habits (yes, we understand the irony). I couldn’t have been more wrong.
One of our biggest challenges was the emotional disconnect that had become obvious with the ED and was steadily and rapidly getting worse. Our daughter was depressed, angry, withdrawn; she felt unreachable no matter what we tried. Having our Dietitian meant that we could step back from ensuring my daughter was eating enough calories to survive and focusing on making sure she wasn’t getting sicker, and focus on supporting, encouraging, and validating her needs and experience. I cannot express this enough: THIS WAS LIFE CHANGING.

We couldn’t make any progress related to food AT ALL, but she would see our Dietitian and return home ready to face whatever challenge they had agreed to. Even if the challenge felt impossible, their agreement meant that I was there to comfort and support, not plan and manage – this made a massive difference in our relationship and put a stop to the power struggles over food. I have NO DOUBT that her recovery went MUCH quicker and our relationship is actually stronger now primarily due to having our Dietitian as part of our recovery team.

Our Dietitian also provided our daughter with another neutral third party that she could talk to, someone young enough to connect with and who isn’t her parent. She could say things to our Dietitian and be understood without having to overexplain or worry about hurting feelings. Our Dietitian has this ability to meet a teen where they’re at, speak to them on their level without talking down to them or being clinical. She made our daughter feel heard and powerful enough to overcome this loud voice that was tormenting her. My daughter would enter angry and sick and would emerge calmer and more secure; those good feelings were fleeting at first, but over time they lasted longer and longer.

Another huge benefit was that we could trust that the progress she was making with the Dietitian was ‘enough’, so we could stop obsessing over her food intake and focus on our daughter. If you have a child with an ED, you understand the crushing weight created by the worry and uncertainty. Also, having someone with ED experience meant that we could turn to her when we had questions about my daughter’s progress and healing and what next steps would/should/could look like. This was incredibly valuable because as you walk through recovery with your child it can feel like you’re in a forest at night without directions -lost, helpless, fearful, panicked. Our Dietitian has the map and the flashlight.

She also ‘held our hands’ as we learned how to sit with our daughter as she tried new challenges. She provided multiple resources and strategies that we used to help my daughter – we were fearful of pushing her too hard that she’d shut down, and also fearful of not holding the line and letting the ED gain traction; without our Dietitian it would have been incredibly difficult for us to know what to do. She was such a steadying and encouraging force whenever we had questions or we had a difficult experience, and a wonderful cheerleader when things went well.

There is absolutely no question that our Dietitian was absolutely invaluable to us.”

Caylie V.

“I knew when I signed up for Ironman Canada, that I would need to ensure my nutrition was going to support the demands of an endurance training plan. I came to see a Sports Nutritionist and the information she provided to me was exactly what I needed. I came away with a formula to calculate precisely the amounts of carbohydrates and protein I needed as well as a new awareness of how to best restock my body’s fuel reserves and when to do so after working out. The information was invaluable to me for a successful training season and allowed me to fulfill all the training sets I needed to do, and have the energy to do every last one of them! I was confident about my food plan, which was absolutely integral to my successful year and competition. I never once felt that I had to compromise being a vegetarian as I knew exactly what my parameters were and how to best achieve optimal nutritional health.”

Debbie

“My dietitian made this such a positive experience. She made me feel truly heard, understood, and supported throughout the entire process. What I appreciated most was that she focused on so much more than just food; she helped me improve my relationship with food and develop a healthier mindset around eating.

I always left our sessions feeling encouraged and empowered. I’m incredibly grateful for her support and knowledge. Would highly recommend her to anyone looking for a dietitian!”

Anna Sweeney

“I met with a Sports Nutritionist at Health Stand Nutrition to discuss my personal goals, which were to increase my energy levels and muscle mass. She did a fantastic job at individually assessing my needs and offered numerous food choices that were catered for me. Since my visit, I have noticed an incredible change, I am feeling a lot stronger during my workouts, and my energy levels are higher then ever! I would without a doubt recommend Health Stand Nutrition to any individual looking to improve their lifestyle, no matter what fitness level or goal they have!”

Jeff Lindstrom

“I am very active and involved in competitive sports but my eating habits were a total disaster. My portion sizes were too large, my meals were not balanced and I was always hungry. I went to see a Dietitian at Health Stand Nutrition so she could help me in terms of eating properly and maybe guide me to losing all my extra pounds. And did she ever. She explained to me what I was doing wrong and why and what would be the right things to do. Her explanations, diagrams, charts, and recipes made sense to someone who had never really paid too much attention to their diet. I have lost over 20 lbs just by eating properly and continuing to exercise regularly. She bestowed me with confidence and made it all seem so easy, which I now realize it is. I feel great, have a tremendous amount of energy and fit into my jeans at the back of the closet again.”

Vanessa

“Since meeting with my Sports Dietitian I feel that I have a better understanding of the nutritional needs for my body. I am a 19 year old competitive short track speed skater. This past season I had a lot of trouble with sickness and low energy. I thought I ate well, trained hard and recovered well enough to maintain my busy lifestyle and athletic performance. I tried many things to regain my energy; I rested more and even compromised training programs. I have always tried to eat “healthy.” To me healthy meant fewer treats and a restrictive lifestyle. After meeting with my Sports Nutritionist I discovered that my thinking was wrong. As an athlete my energy needs are high. She has taught me how to balance my eating in order to maintain my desired performance. My energy level has increased significantly. I have learned that being healthy does not have to be restrictive and complicated. She has helped me gain a greater understanding of nutrition, so that I can apply it to my lifestyle in practical ways. I really appreciated her wisdom, understanding and enthusiasm.”

Kylee

“When I became pregnant I was concerned that my vegetarian diet may affect my growing baby. As a result, my doctor recommended that I see a Nutritionist. Visiting my Nutritionist was a great move because I learned that while my diet was basically good, there were many ways to improve upon it. I had to pay particular attention to my daily intake of protein, iron and calcium. It was a little challenging at first, as I had never been used to consciously planning my meals. However, I now had more than just myself to think about and so I was determined to do things right. I was grateful for all the handouts I was given and the many menu suggestions. I have never been much of a cook and have little imagination in that dept. I was therefore pleased that the suggestions were often very easy to prepare, though not necessarily obvious to the nutritionally-challenged! I also received great information on baby nutrition, something I have just started re-reading as our daughter is now 6 months old. Between us we’ve built a very healthy, bouncing baby.”

Peta

“Why is it that we wait until something goes wrong before we take action to ensure our body gets the proper nutrition it needs to stay healthy. I made it all the way to age 53 before my balloon popped. I’d always thought I was eating properly, boozing socially and often congratulated myself that I didn’t smoke. My problems were cholesterol related and became evident at my annual medical examination. My Doctor was shocked when he passed me the results of my blood work. He gave me six months to get my ducks back in order and a requisition to repeat the blood work by year end. If I could not normal my cholesterol level I was going on the pill. I hate pills! I then met with a Dietitian from Health Stand Nutrition. In six months and three short meetings my Dietitian passed her nutrition experience to me. I followed her plan and made some lifestyle changes. Together we shocked my Doctor again! This time a positive shock. Will I be staying with the plan? You bet….. Thanks. You do great work. Yours now with: Normal Cholesterol.”

Charlie

“It has been nearly 2 years now since my struggles with anorexia first began. At my lowest, I weighed just barely more than 37 kg (82 lbs.). I had lost hope that recovery was ever possible and at points was ready to simply give up. I find it difficult to explain exactly what anorexia does to a person, but it was a constant tormentor and I suffered immensely. My Dietitian has been working with me for over a year now and with her help I have come a long way. She encouraged me to continuously seek help and honestly gave me the hope that I could get through this. Together, we worked on increasing my meal plans and adding in new foods, since my list of ‘safe’ foods had gotten smaller and smaller with time. Gradually, my list grew more and more, and with it, so did my confidence. There has been a dramatic shift in my eating patterns. I went from barely eating anything in a day to now eating 3 meals and 2 snacks each and every day. For the first time in over two years I feel ‘normal’. I am pleased to say that I have gained back all the weight that I lost and even a bit more to ensure I remain healthy at nearly 100 lbs. I can’t say that I’m 100% cured, because recovery from an eating disorder is a long and trying process. But, what I can say is that I have made many changes to my life and my hopes for the future have returned. I decided to write this letter because I truly believe that if my Dietitian could help me, she can help anyone. I can imagine that at times I must have been an extremely difficult client, but she never gave up on me. And because of her, I am here to tell you all my story of success.”

J.B.

“Working with my Dietitian has had significant impact on my health and quality of life. She motivates one to make important health changes through helping you set achievable goals, one at a time. This process allows a person to make life changes not just temporary fixes. For example, it’s taken time to lose 6 lbs. but they are staying OFF! I have a lot more energy, and know how to get good energy at times of the day I need it. I am rarely ill. My blood pressure is way down. I love nutritious foods and new culinary adventures. My Dietitian is positive and patient – there isn’t a goal you feel you can’t tackle.”

Judy

“My usual tricks for losing weight were no longer working and I realized that I needed to become more informed about food and its effect on my body. With my Dietitians help, I have discovered how to gain control over my weight by making simple choices concerning what and when to eat. The results have been very gratifying in terms of weight loss and my overall health.”

Gayle

“This note is to say thank you so much for all your help with my nutritional questions. I have learnt so much from you. I found it quite fascinating to learn how to group foods together to get the best possible effects and how to choose foods which suited my lifestyle. I feel so much more energized. I know I will use the information you gave me the rest of my life and will impart this knowledge to my family and friends. I found your suggestions on lowering my blood pressure and choosing heart healthy foods a great help. Thank you once again, I know I will recommend you to anyone I feel needs help with his or her nutrition.”

Ann 

“My Dietitian was a tremendous help to me in changing my eating patterns only slightly to make a huge difference in my ability to control hunger. So long as I keep to that pattern of eating, I can feel well, energetic and fit. Weight loss is always very slow for me, but at least being able to not feel hungry all the time helps curb some of my unnecessary eating. Feeling well and improving on fatigue is a real bonus. My Dietitian made me feel like it is very possible to deal with the hunger that was getting in the way of my losing weight.”

Lois

“I was advised be my doctor to consult a Dietician for help in reducing my cholesterol levels and in losing some weight. My Dietitian gave me great advice on the kinds of foods to eat to help me to do so and what times of the day to eat certain foods in order to keep my energy levels up. She also gave me some recipes to use and the ones I have tried so far have been delicious. My Dietitian is very helpful and is willing to spend time explaining her suggestions to you, without making you feel that if you eat something “bad” you are a failure. I know that I can call on her at any time, if I have any questions related to diet.”

Nan

“Last week my doctor recommended that I come to see you. I am thankful that she recommended you. After only one meal I noticed a change. I really don’t remember feeling this good for a long time. My cravings for sweets has diminished and it’s just a bad habit now. Soon to be broken. I have more energy and I am full for a much longer period of time. I can’t believe what a difference this has made. Just by altering a few combinations and adding more carbs to my diet it has made a huge difference. I also eat smaller meals and snack in between. I am acutely aware if I have made a poor choice as I go from feeling great to not so good. I am much more aware now of what I’m putting in my mouth. I don’t want to feel crappy anymore because of the food I’ve decided to eat or not eat. Eating at the right times makes such a difference. I feel great. Thanks for finishing University. I’m sending a letter to my doctor also.”

Lynn

“I was recently diagnosed as glucose intolerant. With my Dietitian’s assistance I have been able to reduce my glucose level to near normal in a very short period of time. She helped us with meal planning, provided valuable information on food and shared many excellent recipes. Her approach was very professional, practical and informative. We are well on our way to a healthier lifestyle.”

Lee

“What I love most about the Health Stand Dietitians is how they help people with healthy eating while still enjoying their favourite foods! I highly recommend the Health Stand team for credible nutrition advice and non-judgemental support in making lasting changes.”

Richelle Tabelon, Registered Dietitian

“I am 48 years old. About 3 years ago I weighed over 240lbs and was totally out of shape. I decided to try to lose weight and get fit. I started by walking the dog and then worked my way up to running. I entered a 10 K race and started to feel much better. Next I ran a half marathon and then finished a 180 km bike race. In February of last year I was 211lbs and 27.5% body fat. I could not seem to lose any more weight so went to see a Dietitian at Health Stand Nutrition. The plan was simple and very easy to follow and it worked. By October 3rd of this year I was down to 184 pounds and 19.9% body fat. I ran 2 Marathons and competed in the Mad Hawk, a 3 day Ironman distance triathlon where I completed the 180 km bike portion of the race an hour better than my time last year. Since then I have devoted more time to weight lifting. My weight has gone up slightly since muscle weighs more than fat. I now weigh 193 lbs but my body fat is down to 15.7%. Since I first started working with my Dietitian she has given me much more information on healthy eating, blood pressure reduction, and eating for endurance events. Her program is easy follow and stay on. I eat everything I did before just smaller portions. Sure every once in a while I pig out on something, but as my Dietitian says it is what you do 90% of the time that counts so don’t worry about one meal here or there. I don’t write down everything I eat each day anymore because making healthy choices has become more or less second nature. I think people as a rule underestimate what they eat and overestimate the physical activity they do. The fad diets may work for a time but can you stick with them? Will you have energy to be active? Can you eat regular food or will you be buying special diet food? Will you be eating the same food as the rest of the family? I think sensible eating as my Dietitian prescribes is the only way to go.”

J.V.

“Almost a year has gone since I first contacted Health Stand Nutrition. My lifestyle was preparing me for an early grave. I was working one full time job as well as subcontracting which used up a considerable amount of my time. I kept going by consuming large amounts of caffeine and taking pain killers to alleviate the headaches so I could handle the next day which held even more unrealistic expectations. Having so much on my plate lead me to grabbing fast food daily. My weight had sky-rocketed and once again, I was classed as obese. To top that, I had developed lactose intolerance and I had found out I had been anemic for several months. I also wanted to ensure that I am getting adequate nutrition to reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer & osteoporosis. By some stroke of luck, despite my excessive weight I had not developed high blood pressure or high cholesterol levels. My Dietitian did not give me a diet. She evaluated my eating habits. She provided me with a wealth of information. Most people see the big accomplishment as the weight loss. And they like to see that big number. I don’t want to tell how much I lost. I am still embarrassed about getting that heavy. I will say that I have lost somewhere between 35-40% of my original weight. Also, the number of pounds that I lost is not where I wanted to focus. That’s just cosmetic. Here are some numbers that are more deserving of a pat on the back.  About a year ago, I was totally out of breath trying to complete a 10 K hike with and elevation gain of 350 Meters. Six months after my first consultation with my Dietitian, I completed a 2 day 167 KM bike race. I have also gone on 34 hikes this year in the mountains (~480 KM with a total elevation gain of over 23 thousand meters. I got to go to places that I had not been before. I recently started trying indoor climbing. And I was recently introduced to snow shoeing. I think I’m hooked on both. The one thing that cannot be measured is the levels of energy, alertness and confidence that comes with getting healthier. And there no way I can describe the rush when I completed the bike tour or made it to the top of a climbing wall the first time. And the best photographer cannot capture what you get to see when you cross a mountain ridge.  I have discontinued subcontracting. I have not felt the loss of income – by the time I factored in how often I was eating out because I was too tired to prepare my own meals, I don’t think I was making anything. I have also completely given up caffeine and pain-killers and feel much more relaxed. I do give myself credit for what I have been able to do. It did not come without hard work. But I did find that the hardest part is the first month or so. After that, it becomes habit. My Dietitian helped by helping me with food plans to address my specific issues. She did not tell me to eat this or not eat this. She looked at what I wanted to accomplish and what I was willing to do to reach my goals and helped me develop my own plans – ones that I knew I would follow. While your goals may be completely different than mine, Health Stand Nutrition can help you come up with a plan to get you there.”

P.C.

“I have been a Registered Psychologist for 14 years working in the area of Eating Disorders. When I am first approached by a client suffering from an Eating Disorder, I always try to ensure they also make a connection with Health Stand Nutrition before I agree to take them on as clients. My reasoning for this is because the dietitians at Health Stand are realistic, down-to-earth, practical and beyond knowledgeable. Therefore, they are absolutely key in the recovery process.  

Between Jana Spindler and I’s collaboration this past decade, we have successfully helped many families with very complex eating disorder presentations. Without Jana’s wealth of food science expertise and her firm, yet warm approach, I’m not sure how far I could get with my clients. 

Jana provides sensible and attainable solutions, offers amazing advice, and wraps it up in warm, emotionally connected conversations. She validates what someone is going through all while educating, guiding and firmly directing the change that is needed.  It truly is the perfect balance for ED recovery. 

If you are even remotely interested in working with Health Stand or taking this group program specifically, let my testimonial convince you to sign up. The Health Stand team is what I consider to be the best in the business and I would trust anyone in their care.  Along with any knowledge or expertise they offer to families going through such a challenging time.”  

– Danelle Spence, Registered Psychologist @ Root Psychology   

“I admit I went to see a Dietitian with somewhat of a closed mind, thinking she was going to be some “granola feeding dietitian”. Was I surprised! My Dietitian’s practical approach and acceptance of human nature helped me to lose 40 lbs and 6 pant sizes; and this was the absolute easiest way to lower my cholesterol. The tailored program allows me to eat whatever I want. The ongoing consultation and having my wife join the program definitely made a difference in my life.”

Mike Podovinnikoff

“I learned how to leave dieting for life. I was taught how to intuitively eat. This was well over 6 years ago and I’ve never looked back. I also sent my son (age 11 at the time) in to get excited and to learn about meal prep and nutrition. He came out of it pumped for fruit and veggie smoothies. He can make a mean chicken finger dinner for us now!! Thanks team! I have and will continue to highly recommend working with your group!”

Jennifer Desilets

“Our family came to Health Stand seeking support and guidance for our adult daughter (JB) after she completed an extended eating disorder day program at Alberta Children’s Hospital (12 weeks). With the help of an excellent program, an incredible health team and her own remarkable determination, JB moved through and beyond suicidal thoughts, bulimia, and depression. Following the program, JB continued her recovery, meeting regularly with psychologists, a psychiatrist, an occupational therapist and medical doctors. Still dealing with anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, attention deficit disorder and anorexia, we felt JB needed ongoing nutritional support with someone she respected. One of JB’s psychologists recommended Health Stand.  

JB made a great choice inviting our dietitian, a highly equipped registered dietician, to be part of her recovery team. JB appreciated our dietitian because she called JB out on her “BS”. JB could not hide much from our dietitian, and this was crucial in JB’s progress. Lies, and manipulation of the truth were often used by the eating disorder. It was a relief to have another person on JB’s team that saw eating disorder for what it truly was – ever changing, multi-layered, difficult to grasp, and not attached to JB’s identity or value. Our dietitian validated the experiences we were having, while detecting and calling out the tactics or schemes of the eating disorder.  

With JB’s invitation and approval, there were no topics off the table. We were supported in our desire to be honest and vulnerable. Our dietitian encouraged questions and accepted the range of emotions that accompany recovery, while providing an open, honest, and respectful environment for our meetings. And whether we were experiencing a good day or a hard day, knowing we were always “on the same team”, was a valuable key in addressing the eating disorder.  

Our dietitian was great at providing suggestions to improve weekly outcomes. She not only challenged JB, but at times provided us as parents, with alternative actions and words to think about and/or implement. Our dietitian also encouraged us to connect with her with questions or concerns in between appointments. Knowing there was help available outside of an appointment was a huge relief. 

Having a strong, knowledgeable, and compassionate team was crucial in JB’s journey to recovery. We were thankful our dietitian recognized the value and importance of working collaboratively with other health professionals caring for our daughter. 

We found a family-centred approach toward recovery to be very beneficial, even as parents of an adult daughter. We have all learned a great deal over the years. Our relationship, which has always been loving, supportive and accepting, is now even richer and deeper! Learning about our strengths and areas to develop, helped us to grow into healthier individuals, resulting in a healthier family.  

JB now uses the various skills she has learned to be open and honest, to articulate her needs, advocate for herself, identity triggers, and to ask for help. We are so very thankful for JB’s progress! Her determination, joy and self-love, qualities the eating disorder tried to twist, shutdown and claim for itself, are now back where they belong, planted firmly in her beautiful heart and mind. 

Working with our dietitian has helped us to know and understand each other more fully, to see the various ways we all cope, deal with stress and handle our insecurities. We are a richer family because of all the help we have received. Now that JB has been doing well for some time, we as parents have taken a back seat, and encouraged JB and our dietitian to continue working together without our direct involvement. Having said that, we know if we ever have concerns and/or questions, our dietitian is available. And that is a blessing!” 

Carla

“As a fellow Dietitian, I often refer clients to the team at Health Stand Nutrition. I know they have a practical, holistic view of client’s needs. And help their clients to make lifestyle changes to feel better whether it’s through a healthier relationship with food, more organized kitchen or managing a health condition.”

Jennifer House, Registered Dietitian

“Some of the things I learned with my dietitian. I found my 4-week sessions with my dietitian very informative and helpful. I learned what kind of textures and fluid consistency are safe for my medical condition, how to eat at the dinner table sitting upright on a chair instead of standing up like I used to do. The idea of building balanced meals that include carbohydrates, vegetables/fruits, and protein, using equal amounts of each category is a great technique for satisfaction. The first time I tried it, I couldn’t believe how it helped me to feel full longer between meals. My dietitian imparts his knowledge in a kind, patient way and welcomes questions.  I plan to follow his advice since it has helped me enjoy my food more and feel stronger. Thank you.”

Diane Harris

“I was looking for guidance during my second pregnancy in an effort to educate myself on how to best care myself and understand nutrition. I have tried every fad diet out there and even when losing weight I realized none of it was sustainable and it left me feeling physically weak. I reached out to Health Stand Nutrition and I was assigned my dietician and through her I was able to learn a lot of useful information about nutrition. I finally understood why none of the fad diets will never stick or help in the long run.

I was also able to stave off gestational diabetes with my second pregnancy. I have been told it is very unlikely to not have gestational diabetes the second time after having it the first time. I believe it was due to the lessons learnt on how to eat nutritious food and also staying active during my pregnancy.

I believe Health Stand Nutrition is just what you need to educate yourself and transform your habits that lead to a healthy and sustainable lifestyle. There are tons of useful resources available and your dietician will always be willing to help you at any point in your journey :)”

Veena Jose

“I really enjoyed my sessions with my dietitian at Health Stand Nutrition. She taught me a lot and listened to me. She did not try to force her ways of thinking like dieticians have done in the past thinking that was best for me. I am currently using the tools she gave me and will be booking more sessions in the new year.  I highly recommend them.”

Courtney Franzon

“I am a recently retired, extremely active health and fitness nut. I’ve always felt that I’ve been pretty good about managing my food choices, but I didn’t know for sure. I came to Health Stand Nutrition looking for 3 things.1. Confirmation that what I was currently eating was overall the right approach. 2. A deep dive into how my current diet stacked up against the daily recommended values of all the macro and micro nutrients. 3. Develop a plan for how I could adapt and change my diet throughout the aging process. And I can tell you that they absolutely delivered on all 3 fronts! I’m now more confident than ever in my nutrition as I look to enjoy great health for years to come.

From the initial 15 minute consultation, to the 3 hours spent picking the brain of the sports nutritionist that was assigned to me, I felt like I was heard every step of the way. 1. I wanted confirmation that my current diet was in general pretty good. Check. I wanted a deep dive into the macro and micro nutrients that I was currently getting and needed to get. Check. I wanted a plan for the future as I head into my retirement years as an extremely active fitness nut. Again, check.

In my experience, Health Stand Nutrition will definitely give you want you want and need to satisfy your nutritional goals.”

Trent Doell

“Thank you to my dietitian for all their efforts in helping me with my issues. Very much appreciated all the tips and solutions to what I have been dealing with. Love the new recipes my dietitian got me into and have tried a lot of them. I am sleeping better and have had less stomach pain. What a relief!! My dietitian also inspired me to bump up my cardio and as a result I am beginning to see my weight reduce.”

Thanks again,

Marge Sealock

“My dietitian always explains information in great details very carefully and patiently. She is ready to spend time to clarify and get across all the facts to her patient, even better than the dietitians at the hospital. More importantly, she gives detailed session notes after each session,  allowing further reading on our own, thus enhancing confidence of the patient under her medical care. My dietitian is indeed a very knowledgeable, mindful and responsible dietitian.”

Jenny & Dixon Lok

“My dietitian is knowledgeable and very helpful. He is good at his work. I personally trust him for my diet without any questions. If you are looking for nutritionist,  and confused about whom to select, I highly recommend everyone to go for him. He won’t disappoint your expectations. Apart from his professional work, he is kind and listens actively.”

Miyu Vaghasiya

“Both my dietitians were such a great resource and support. They helped me to identify my unique concerns, and find the best person and resources to help me achieve my goals. Since working with the team at Health Stand I feel better prepared to enjoy balanced meals that meet my specific needs, identify and work to avoid any triggering foods for my IBS symptoms, and how to maintain my goals in the long term. I would highly recommend Health Stand to anyone who is seeking the support of a registered dietician.”

Megan Eileen

“My sessions with my dietitian have been top-notch! She reads me well and discerns what it is I’m asking, where my confusion lies, and what information I need in order to make good food choices. She provides diagrams and links to further explain what she’s teaching me. I could not have successfully navigated pre-diabetes without her help!”

Patchwork Peanut

“Met with my dietitian and was very impressed. She was incredibly knowledgeable and spent the time to walk me through the details of what I needed to focus on for my goals and we developed an action plan. She made sure I had everything I needed and we even ran over time to make sure we accomplished everything. Highly recommend for anyone looking to level up their nutrition game!”

Chris Wallace

“I am a psychologist in private practice and it is very important to me that my clients have the best care with other health care professionals. For that reason Health Stand Nutrition is my only source for exceptional Dietitians. Andrea and her team provide highly knowledgeable, compassionate, and real world support to my clients who require assistance with food lifestyle. I trust my clients to them and you would be in excellent hands making them part of your health care team.”

Adele Fox, Psychologist

“I can’t recommend my dietitian enough. She was recommended to me by Anne Marie, another nutritionist at Health Stand, and I’m so grateful I found her. Working with her has truly been life-changing. Unlike any nutritionist I’ve seen before, she really took the time to understand my relationship with food, the social pressures around it, and how these beliefs are shaped by culture. Her approach wasn’t just about nutrition—it was about healing, unlearning, and rebuilding in a way that felt personal, supportive, and empowering.

What stood out most was how she challenged my perspectives in a way that felt safe and constructive. As she got to know me, she recognized that what I really needed was a healthier, more balanced relationship with food—one based on joy, gratitude, and sustainability rather than rigid structure or strict rules. Her personal approach made all the difference, tailoring her guidance to what actually resonated with me. More than anything, I felt truly cared for. She created a space where I felt understood, supported, and never alone in the process. Her insight into how societal expectations, social media, and feminism shape our relationships with food and body image made our work together even more impactful.

I’m so grateful for her support and the lasting impact she’s had on my life.”

– Shayna May

“I am a family physician who sees patients with a myriad of eating concerns – from wanting to know how to plan healthy meals for active families, to weight loss, to eating disorders, and so on. I cannot recommend the Health Stand team highly enough. I have worked with (and been to!) other Dieticians in the past and too often find that they just ask for food logs and make suggestions that are easily obtained online or in books. The Dieticians at Health Stand offer much more than just telling clients what they “should be eating.” In contrast, the team really does more of a counselling practice, and they work hard to help their clients learn more about why their eating habits may be off track and not optimal for them, as well as helping people to effect change at a deep level that, most importantly, is sustainable for lifetime health.”

Dr. Deb Putnam, Family Physician

“It was life changing information. My dietitian identified nutrition problems from a physiological and psychological perspective and gave evidence-based solutions. She is also actively upgrading her knowledge to better understand the topic of nutrition. She is a great pick for somebody who is actively looking to change and improve their eating habits for a healthier life.”

– Jay See

“I could not be more pleased. As a first-time user of nutritional services with a Registered Dietitian, I was unsure what to expect. After reading many great reviews on my insurance provider’s site, I chose Health Stand Nutrition, who matched me with my dietitian based on my goals.

After just four sessions, I’m already seeing real progress toward my objectives and feeling better than I have in years. My dietitian’s calm, practical approach and expert advice have been essential to my success. I’ve learned a lot about nutrition and my own habits, and I now feel much more in control. I’m enjoying healthy foods that boost my energy and am making excellent progress toward my weight goals. We’re now focusing on long-term sustainability.

If you’re serious about improving your eating habits and overall health, I definitely recommend Health Stand!”

– Jim Downie

“My dietitian was very pleasant and easy to talk to. Being a 62 year old that in the last year has put on a few pounds, I made the decision to talk to a dietitian. Best thing I could have done. This is when I met my dietitian through health stand nutrition. She has taught me ways to deal with those after supper cravings, how it is very important to have carbs for brain health. I highly recommend speaking with my dietitian or someone else from Health Stand Nutrition with eating issues. I feel like I can now control my eating and even with a bad day I know I can get back on track. My dietitian has given me tools, I can’t thank you enough 💕”

⁃ Cheryl Johnson

“I cannot recommend my dietitian and the team at Health Stand Nutrition Consulting highly enough. Deciding to work with a dietitian was the best health decision I have made, and my dietitian truly exceeded all expectations.

Unlike generic programs or generalized dieticians, she took the time to deeply understand my lifestyle, health history, and, most importantly, my goals. The approach was incredibly personalized, focusing not just on my diet but on sustainable habits with food and my other health issues. There was never any restrictive or judgmental language, only thoughtful guidance.

Within 6 weeks, I saw tangible results, including improved energy, better sleep, and successful management of my overall health. I am confident in making food choices that support my long-term well-being.

My dietitian is an exceptional communicator, very patient, encouraging, and always thinking of new ways to help me. If you’re seeking an expert who offers true partnership and sustainable change, look no further. Thank you for changing my relationship with my health for the better!”

– Angie Babcock

“Some of the best money I’ve ever spent.

The intake interview matched me with an excellent fit. My dietitian was wonderful, met me where I was at, and provided excellent guidance and amazing support. So grateful to Health Stand Nutrition for their help.”

– Lauren Lautner

“My dietitian has helped me a great deal with not only changing the way I eat, but also how I look at food and dieting. She really helped to dismantle years of beliefs in diets, misinformation on food and nutrition, and the importance of self worth. She provided me with right information on food nutrition based off of research studies and her expertise. I have more freedom with eating now than I ever did, and I also eat more healthy than I ever did.

Best decision I made for myself and my health was to consult with a registered dietician, someone who has a degree in the field, rather than random diets I’ve come across the internet. My only regret was not doing this sooner and wasting time and money on fad diets that left me hungry and nutritionally depleted. I highly recommend Health Stand Nutrition. One of the best investments I’ve done for myself. Thanks to my dietitian for changing my relationship with food.”

– Michelle Maurage

“I worked with Health Stand Nutrition for support with IBS management and am so grateful that I did. My dietitian helped me to get a better understanding of how food can better support my digestion and also made it possible for me to re-incorporate many foods I love but had cut out in an effort to improve my symptoms. She also encouraged me to connect with other allied health professionals to get diagnostic clarity on other potential causes for my symptoms, giving me an additional layer of treatment (and relief) that had been overlooked by my physician. In addition to being knowledgable and kind, my dietitian went above and beyond in offering notes, evidence-supported resources, and helping me navigate a new diagnosis over the course of our work. I will absolutely reconnect if I need additional support in the future, and highly recommend connecting with Health Stand if you are trying to sort through lots of contradictory messaging about what will and will not help your digestive concerns.”

Bevan

“I am extremely excited to write a review for Health Stand and my dietitian (our Health Guru). From the Initial contact, to having the sessions with my dietitian, was quite seamless. My wife and I had five sessions and each built on to the previous one. I was amazed at how our dietitian could always detect a question coming and would always give a solid knowledgeable answer in return. She is very positive, upbeat, patient and easy to talk with. The follow up notes were a surprise to me after the first session, as I realized that her work in the session was only partially completed and she still had to bundle it all together for us to grasp the concepts.

The knowledge that we have gained is truly priceless and will be part of our living for the future. My only real regret is that I did not spend the money and do this years ago!! Highly… Highly recommend Health Stand Nutritional Consulting and my dietitian (or any of the Consultants), as this is truly a great company and equally good people.”

Andrew Lipinski

“When I first came to see my Dietitian, I was stuck inside my head and definitely feeling a post binge hangover. This was not an unusual feeling. The box inside my mind had some pretty stringent rules and a vision of the perfect me. It was a roller coaster ride of high’s and low’s. Eating “clean”, obsessing over ingredients to “slipping up” and demolishing whatever was in the pantry. My life depended on a good eating day or bad eating day. Throughout our sessions, my Dietitian helped me navigate through the voices to a place of self-compassion. A truly soulful way of not only eating but living. Today I have invaluable tools that will be there for the rest of my life.”

Sam K.

“My dietitian was knowledgeable and very accommodating to my needs. I had learned so much from our sessions. She took the time to listen to my concerns, understand my challenges, and provide actionable advice that felt achievable rather than overwhelming. Her knowledge and expertise are evident, but what truly impressed me was her supportive and encouraging approach.

I saw noticeable improvements in my energy levels, digestion, and overall health within weeks of implementing her recommendations. The meal ideas were delicious, and I never felt deprived or restricted.”

Mai Nguyen

“I’ve struggled with a lot of eating problems, misinformation, fad diets, expectations ect… my entire life, and for years I thought I could figure it all out on my own and got no where productive. But my dietician, was an angel. So knowledgeable and patient, kind, funny, relatable, understanding and encouraging. She has genuinely changed my life for the better. And if anyone is considering this business or these people I recommend them with my entire heart and soul. 10 stars. Thank you!”

– Devon Crewe

“We have used Health Stand at two different times for two different family members and they have been excellent. The online sessions are extremely convenient and their app keeps all the follow up notes in one place. Their advice is very practical and they encourage the inclusion of soulful foods, making it easy to follow and not feel too restricted. Highly recommend Health Stand for sound, scientific and practical advice! I also appreciated their flexible billing options and their receipts were accepted by our insurance.”

Hanna and Richard Janzen

“I highly recommend Health Stand Nutrition. First and foremost, my dietitian made me feel safe. She’s the first person to actually listen to what was going on, and not only provide amazing help and advice, she gave me empathy. I have Endometriosis, IBS and Fibromyalgia. She took care in providing help and relief in all areas. If you’re looking for help with nutrition for any reason, Health Stand Nutrition is where you need to go.”

– Veronica Sutherland

“My dietitian was fantastic at working with us on our family dietary needs. She balanced my fitness nutrition goals, my wife’s different nutrition goals, and our kids. It all worked into a menu plan that met all of our needs without making 4 meals every night. We generated with our dietitian’s help a 4-week rotating menu plan, standard grocery shopping lists, and freezer emergency options when we aren’t feeling like the menu plan that night. We’ve already noticed less time is spent thinking about what to make for dinner and just following the plan.”

– Austin Muir

“My dietitian truly helped me in more ways than I could’ve imagined. Food is always a hard topic that many people shy away from, including me. But my dietitian made me feel comfortable and extremely confident in what she taught me. I went from being unable to nourish my body due to medical complications and am now unrecognizable. She has taught me to listen to my body and to find what works best for me because, at the end of the day, everyone is different and has different needs. I could go on and on, but truly, my dietitian taught me to love myself just the way I am, and I will be forever grateful to her and all of the incredible people who work at Health Stand.”

– Elizabeth Morris

“My Dietitian did a great job of understanding the way I work and providing insightful comments for ways of rethinking food, preparation and planning. She was a great listener and extremely easy to open up to (very approachable). I really enjoyed how we managed to change habits, set a strong baseline with good food preparation and planning, and providing a different perspective on nutrition seemingly without trying. I now feel I have a great system in place that I can build from. I think I came in expecting to be told that in order to get to my goals, I should do x, y and z – and follow a, b and c meal plans or e.g. don’t eat after 9pm / stop eating bread etc. i.e. a more prescriptive approach. Instead what we did was to look at my relationship with food, using the way I think, and a few simple mindset changes – a hugely more effective process.” 

David Pickup

“My dietitian has been incredible to work with. From the beginning, she truly listened, not just to my goals, but to my concerns, challenges, and our needs as a family. She consistently brainstormed ideas and practical solutions with me, helping us find ways to make healthy eating feel sustainable and realistic rather than restrictive.

She shared thoughtful tips and strategies that fit into real life, and she helped me let go of a lot of negative, all-or-nothing thinking around food and diet culture. Her approach made healthy eating feel like a lifestyle, not a temporary plan.

She is warm, easy to talk to, and I always felt heard and supported. I’m so grateful for her guidance and would highly recommend her to anyone looking for compassionate, realistic, and positive nutrition support.”

– Nicole Bell

“Health Stand Nutrition helped me change my approach to food. Meeting with my dietitian for 4 sessions via Zoom was a welcome option as I recover and go through treatment for a medical condition. My dietitian was empathetic and very knowledgeable! She really listened and ensured she was understanding what I was saying.

She taught me how to eat consciously, and without guilt. I came away with a better understanding and plan to add more protein, approach food as nourishment and be kinder to myself. This was a huge revelation for me. Still a work in progress but overall I feel less restricted and happier.”

– M.I

“Both of my dietitians were absolutely fantastic and extremely knowledgeable of eating disorders and nutrition. I worked with one many years ago as I worked through very bad anorexia and am currently working with another for similar struggles.

This is a journey that is up and down and Health Stand has consistently been there for me.

My former dietitian is energetic, kind and knew when to challenge and encourage me, and my current dietitian is so compassionate, understanding and consistently supportive and knows when to both encourage and challenge my thoughts and beliefs.

I will forever be grateful for the support and guidance I have had and am currently getting at Health Stand.”

– Emma Mackintosh

“My dietitian was amazing to work with and learn from! She helped so much with learning different tactics and with my overall understanding of nutrition. Everyone was so easy to work with to set up appointments and reschedule when needed!”

– Devon Bishop

“I wanted to learn to eat without guilt, and fill my body’s needs, outside of diet culture. Their approach works for me. Thanks to my dietitian!”

– Lin

“I’ve been working with my dietitian since last July, and the impact on my nutrition and overall well-being has been significant. Through our online sessions, I’ve built sustainable habits and a much stronger foundation of knowledge around food and fueling my body.

I am healthier, more consistent, and more confident in my choices. While I still have more to learn, the changes so far have been truly transformational. I’m very grateful for my dietitian’s guidance and support.”

– Karey Reilly

“5-Star Customer Service Experience

I had such a wonderful experience with the intake team from the Health Stand Nutrition team! From the moment I reached out, she was incredibly friendly, responsive, and genuinely eager to help. Whether it was answering my questions, helping me navigate booking options, or making sure I was connected with the right dietitian, they made the entire process feel effortless.

She goes above and beyond in making sure you feel supported and heard. Even when I had a last-minute change, they handled it with such grace and kindness—it really stood out and made me feel valued as a client.

In a world where great customer service is rare, she is a true gem. Health Stand Nutrition is lucky to have her, and I’m so grateful for the positive and seamless experience she provided!”

Dhruvi Bhatt

“Juno House is a specialist therapy center, specializing in working with Adolescent girls and young women with anxiety-based issues, which include: eating disorders, self-harm, depression, and obsessive-compulsive behaviours.

We partner with the dieticians at Health Stand Nutrition for all of our Eating Disorder client families.  Jana Spindler has gone above and beyond the regular training as a dietician to immerse herself in the emotional world of eating disorders. She is trained in Emotional Focussed Family Therapy and uses it extensively in her work with our families. Jana has also taken the step of completing her Masters in Counselling to add an even deeper level to her work with girls and parents with an Eating Disorder in the family.

The Caregivers United group program will be invaluable for parents who are navigating an eating disorder with their child.  You will learn,  and be challenged to question what you might have understood about eating disorders, and you will be given tools to lean into the emotional world of your child to help them step out of the world of eating disorders.”

Lois Sapsford, MSW, RCSW, | Director at Juno House

“My dietitian is absolutely wonderful. So compassionate, she rides for you and is your cheerleader. She broke things down in a really digestible way, making the homework feel achievable and not overwhelming. I could go on to write a million other positive things about my experience and my dietitian herself,  but there isn’t enough time in the day. Thank you for absolutely everything. We’ll see each other again soon!”

– Jasmine’s Kristine

“I came some time ago for a few nutrition counseling sessions as my blood sugar was a bit high.  I am happy to report that my blood sugar is back to normal as I have made big changes in my choices and portion sizes.  I have lost about 20 lbs. in less than a year and while I still have a ways to go, I am doing well.  Thanks for all of your help!!  I’ll apprise if I think I need any “tune up” sessions with you down the road.”

Denis Gagne

“This is the first time I feel satisfied; my cravings have diminished dramatically, and I have a whole new relationship with food. I am eating guilt-free for the first time in my life. My energy has also dramatically increased and I feel great!”

Rhonda Jenkins

“Working with my dietitian has truly been life changing! My initial intent on signing up with Health Stand Nutrition was to get help losing weight. With my dietitian’s incredible wealth of knowledge, guidance and support, she has taken me on a journey that has transformed my unhealthy views and beliefs into healthy ones and to finally get off that rollercoaster of dieting. While it is a journey and a hard one, I am learning that self acceptance and love will nourish my body and mind and ultimately lead me to a healthy me. It is so devastating the damage that we do to our selves trying to fit an unrealistic mold that someone has arbitrarily decided is the right look. If you are looking to break away from that cycle, I highly recommend Health Stand Nutrition. Everyone that I have dealt with has been fantastic. I wish I could give 100 stars. An absolutely exceptional company!!”

Anne Marie Shutt

“Working with my dietitian has been literally life changing.

I came to Health Stand Nutrition Consulting with heavy anxiety related to blood sugar levels. The anxiety I had related to food became more and more overwhelming as I attempted to navigate nutrition on my own. Information online can be extremely overwhelming, not to mention the food documentaries.

The more I tried to navigate nutrition on my own, the more anxious I became. I was terribly confused to the point I was not able to eat at all. Eating progressively became more and more difficult as everything I was eating would contribute to my anxiety.

I booked four sessions with my dietitian. Where do I even begin.

Firstly, my dietitian is hugely compassionate. She listens well and cares – you can feel that care extended in the sessions. Aside from that, my dietitian is so incredibly knowledgeable in food science and helped me understand that nourishing my body should be an instinctual process. With each session, my confidence gradually grew more and she helped me reestablish my love and relationship with food by providing explanations in terms I could easily understand.

My dietitian is personable in that she encouraged me to eat what I like, including food from my South Asian culture. She taught me to follow my instincts and how to measure signs to look for should there be any reason for concern. She was instrumental in the process of getting me out of my head and back to the present. My dietitian also enthusiastically let me share each stage of my progression with her, cheering each victory on with me – that was amazing! She genuinely was happy I was getting better!

As of today my disordered eating is behind me and my relationship with food has been reestablished –  with greater understanding and confidence than I could ever imagine. I also have very detailed notes from our sessions I often review to reiterate the information she provided. I cannot say enough good things. This has been life changing for me and I can’t thank my dietitian enough. I truly can’t. Some are gifted at what they do, and I firmly stand by she is just that.

I will always be thankful, and should anything come up in the future, I definitely know where to reach out.”

– Aradna Gulati

“I highly recommend my dietitian at Health Stand Nutrition Consulting Inc. She is extremely knowledgeable and professional, and her approach to health feels genuinely holistic. She combines solid, evidence-based guidance with thoughtful emotional support, which made the whole experience both reassuring and empowering.

After each consultation, my dietitian provided clear and helpful follow-up notes that captured our conversation and included references to additional resources. These summaries made it much easier for me to study and put her advice into practice in a realistic and sustainable way.

There is a common misconception that nutritionists are “food police,” but that couldn’t be further from the truth here. my dietitian introduced a wide variety of healthy, enjoyable food options and offered practical guidance gently and without judgment when caution was needed. She works with you as a health partner, not a disciplinarian.

Even though her services were not covered by my insurance, I consider this money very well spent and a worthwhile investment in my long-term health.

I would also want to recognize my other dietitian, who provided the initial consultation when Angela was not immediately available. my other dietitian addressed and put to rest many concerns I had developed during my extensive research, particularly regarding protein and oxalates in relation to osteoporosis management. I left that meeting with a great sense of relief and reassurance.”

– B O

“The Dieticians at Health Stand Nutrition help you to take action on the science behind eating well by making it practical, understandable, and fun. Their office is cozy and not at all clinical or intimidating. I felt like I was sitting down with a really smart, caring friend who wanted to help me make the best choices for my lifestyle and food preferences. Andrea and her team really are the best in the business.”

Marty Avery

“I didn’t realize how strong my “diet mentality” was, and all the rules I had in my head about food. I was in a cycle of reward/punish/binge/cringe. I booked with your business very reluctantly, on the repeated advice of my doctor, to get my slowly rising cholesterol levels in check. I thought I knew everything about food, and my behaviour with food, but I was definitely re-schooled. My weight is creeping down, I feel good about my diet, exercise, body image, and lifestyle.”

Amy Floyd

“Exceptional experience with my Dietitian! I was overwhelmed with conflicting information about nutrition, but Paige took the time to explain everything clearly and simply. She created a personalized meal plan that fit perfectly with my lifestyle and dietary preferences. She helped me in choosing the food which is easily available in the stores I shop. Highly recommend for anyone looking to improve their diet with a knowledgeable and approachable expert.”

Hemendra Gusain

“I had 4 appointments with my dietitian at Health Stand Nutrition, and I had a really positive experience working with her. She was very easy to talk to, knowledgeable, and always brought such positive energy to every session.

My dietitian took the time to understand my personal health goals and gave me specific, practical advice and tips that I could actually apply in my daily life. She answered all of my questions thoroughly and made me feel comfortable throughout the process.

Thanks to her guidance and support, I feel like I achieved the goals I set for myself. I would highly recommend my dietitian to anyone looking for a supportive and professional dietitian and nutrition counsellor!”

“I found my Dietitian warm, funny, and skilled at teaching nutrition concepts without the overwhelm. The general approach of each session was to mix science with emotion, which was exceedingly effective in helping me shift my perspective on food from one of anxiety to one of joy and curiosity.”

Erin Kronstedt

“I just went through my annual check up and my cholesterol levels couldn’t be any better (both LDL and HDL). Diet, exercise, and above all, fiber intake did the trick for me. Thank you so much!”

Ray Wah

“I wish more Dieticians understood the complexity of people’s relationship to food like you all do! My Dietitian was incredibly responsive and felt more like a food therapist than a Dietician, which is exactly what I needed. My Dietitian pointed out food rules that I had disguised very well to myself as a preference such as not “liking” certain foods that I associated with weight gain. I learned that literally none of the food rules I had created for myself were based in any sort of legitimate science about food, but were all part of my anxiety around food and eating and unsuccessful attempts to control my body. My Dietitian understood right away that this was not about healthy eating for me or about issues with digestion (this is what I initially told her I needed help with). I am very well versed in “healthy” foods and “eating clean”… this was about seeing food as just food and my body as just a body, and taking away the power of both to influence how I feel about myself, something that was a daily (hourly) struggle for me for many years. With my Dietitians support, I came to understand that my digestive issues are a direct result of the anxiety I felt when I ate – I was ruminating about what I should and shouldn’t eat so much and feeling guilty if I ate too much or the “wrong” thing that I made myself physically unwell. I learned so much it is difficult to capture it all succinctly! It was all so helpful.”

Alix Gordon-Moran

“I’ve never been to a dietician before. What I received was far more advice and knowledge that I had initially expected. My Dietitian is extremely knowledgeable, excellent at communicating, and just plain fun to talk to. I’ve learned so much in just three appointments. I can actually feel the differences in my body after making the changes recommended to me. I’m far more aware of how to read my body’s reactions to certain foods. I have learned how to put together healthy delicious meals that aren’t repetitive. I don’t have to deprive myself of anything nor do I coerce myself into eating things I dislike. I’d rate this 6 stars instead of 5 stars on google reviews as my expectations were far over achieved! Thank you!”

Andre Perras

“I cook mostly whole foods and I watch very closely what I eat.  The problem was that there are things that I cannot have control over, such as social events, parties etc. I would often pre-eat, so I could skip the food being served, or I would opt to not eat at all, but then I would arrive home starving. And yet, with such a restricted, health focused diet, I could not seem to lose “the last 15 pounds”, something that I have struggled with my entire life. I measured my food, kept a food diary, weighed myself daily and every time I ate something it would affect my mood and I would then focus on exercise to mitigate the impact of the food I ate. I thought I was doing it right, yet all I thought about every day was food and the stress of uncontrollable situations became too much for me. That is when I reached out for help. I was very lucky to find Health Stand Nutrition – my Dietitian is absolutely awesome. I wasn’t sure what a Registered Dietician would do, but I figured they would simply help me figure out portion sizes and types based on my activities and perhaps they would identify how many times per week I could “food splurge” and still maintain or lose weight… and I’d be on my way. Instead, my Dietitian helped me realize that I had some (my husband would likely say many) obsessive ways, and bottom line: I was a dieter; even though I did not realize it. We talked about an approach called Intuitive Eating. This was a methodology where I would need to “lose the rules”; I could no longer write down my meals, count carbs or list portion size, or weigh myself. It seemed daunting at first but with my Dietitians support and guidance, it was manageable.  My Dietitian taught me how to eat intuitively. She promised that if I was open to this approach I could be free of my obsession with food and that one day I would eat when I am hungry and stop when I am full. She created a world where no food was off limits. She provided me with resources, assistance and support to help to learn to listen to my body. I really had no idea how my old ways were impacting my life; I had created a world that revolved around food and I felt like I was in prison. I dreaded meals at other people’s homes and meals out to restaurants, where food that I had always deemed off limits was served. So the concept of Intuitive Eating seemed scary. If I allowed myself all these thing I have worked so hard to eliminate I feared that I would binge. But I don’t binge. It surprised me. I learned to savour food and if I don’t love the first bite, I don’t have a second. No foods are off limits and I actually realized that I don’t love all sweets and dessert, I now only eat it if it will satisfy me. I have increased energy, less mood swings, my clothes still fit and are even getting looser (but this isn’t even important anymore) and in fact my overall stress level has been reduced. I let go of the control and others can cook dinner in our house and I am ok with it. I can go to client lunches and industry events without fear of what they are serving. And the surprise is that I eat less overall and I am not hungry. There are easy days and there are a few hard days. But even a hard day Intuitive Eating is easier than a hard day dieting… because it’s ok to eat on the run, have full fat cheesecake or drink that glass of wine. No more unsatisfying “diet” substitutes. No longer depriving myself of food I like. All of this means I have less cravings and I eat less because I know I can have it again. I know that not eating “perfectly”  is perfect and food will no longer impact my mood or affect my end goal, which is to be healthy. A huge weight has been lifted and I am so much happier. I can honestly say I will never diet again- what a freeing statement! I really can’t say enough amazing things about my Dietitian and what she did for me and for my family who have also benefited from the Intuitive Eating approach taught by Health Stand Nutrition.”

Jennifer Desilets

“Health Stand Nutrition helped me change my fundamental approach to food. My Dietitian was warm, empathetic, and very knowledgeable. She taught me how to eat consciously, and without guilt. This was incredibly helpful because I had never thought in that way before. I learned sustainable strategies for shopping, cooking, and eating that I have incorporated into my life. It was definitely money well spent for me. The coaching was inspiring, action-oriented, and non-judgmental, and it made a sustained impact on me, even years later.”

Bruce Sellery, Business Journalist, Television News Anchor and Personal Finance Coach 

“Prior to visiting my Dietitian, I had adopted an extremely low carb diet in order to lose 50 lbs, and while that diet worked for me I knew that a low carb diet was unsustainable.  So I wanted to get advice on a balanced diet that would give me the nutrition I needed without putting the weight back on.  Although I am fairly savvy when it comes to diet and nutrition, I found my Dietitian to be extremely supportive, motivational, and knowledgeable.  The 3 sessions were very worthwhile and I still refer to them on a regular basis.  The fact is that 7 months after losing all that weight I have only put on 5 lbs, thanks to a sensible balanced diet and the motivation that my Dietitian instilled in me. I also had BPH (prostate enlargement).  My Dietitian did some research for me on what foods to take, and what to avoid.  7 months later, the BPH is totally gone, which just shows that many ailments can be treated by diet. Whether you are looking to lose weight, keep the weight off, or get your health sorted, you will find a friend in Health Stand Nutrition.”

P.H.

“Our stable family home was rocked to the core when our daughter was diagnosed with an eating disorder. How could something like this happen to our joyful, funny, generous girl? Feelings of terror and helplessness washed over us daily. Grappling with the enormity of our daughter’s struggles and how we could help her was daunting. A friend had recommended Health Stand to us as they had helped her when she struggled with an eating disorder. Our Dietitian immediately made a connection with our daughter. Her kind and understanding way instantly built trust in all of us. Our Dietitian instinctively knew how to encourage our daughter, asking meaningful questions and providing helpful ideas on navigating the day-to-day struggles of simply eating. With our Dietitian’s support, we could see a path out of disordered eating. Her guidance gave us, as parents, a role in how we could effectively help our daughter. With her encouragement, we were empowered and no longer felt helpless and alone. Thanks to our Dietitian’s help, our daughter made excellent gains back to health. As she recovered weight, she was determined to put disordered eating behind her and seek therapy to address the root of her mental health issues. Our daughter fought hard in her recovery, and we credit a large part of that to our Dietitian. She inspired a will to get better in our daughter, and for that, we will always be grateful. Now our daughter is in her first year of university at the University of Victoria. She is a typical first-year university student navigating her way through the ups and downs of school. The food menu in residence is interesting, but our daughter consistently finds food she likes and navigates the menu with no issues. Although living through an eating disorder was hell, we would say that it made our daughter reflect on her challenges and helped her see that life can be difficult, but with honesty and the help of others, she can get through it ok.”

Sam B.

“As a busy mom working full time and feeding a growing family, I’m so glad I reached out to a Registered Dietitian at Health Stand. I was feeling overwhelmed by all the conflicting nutrition advice and wanted support with some health concerns. After a few sessions, I gained practical tips, helpful strategies, and a lot more confidence in the kitchen especially with feeding my teenage boys. The guidance was personalized, supportive, and never judgmental. I highly recommend Health Stand to anyone looking for practical, realistic nutrition advice!”

– Alee

“I have used HealthStand on 2 separate occasions for help with my diet and they are incredible. This time I saw my dietitan and she was wonderful. I worked through a lot with her and she was so helpful”

Kate Ukrainetz

“Has been great working with my dietitian. Very informative and helpful.”

Jason

“I came to Health Stand Nutrition at the advice of my psychologist. I was diagnosed with anxiety and tried many different avenues to get my mental health better, but nothing was working. I was malnourished and had been my entire life (age 37). My Dietitian took the time to explain things to me and help me understand just how important food is. Not only for nourishment, but how important it is to enjoy (and how fun and creative food can be). She understood all my concerns, she was very easy to talk to, and provided so many helpful tips. My mental health has done a complete 180 and I honestly can’t believe how much better I am feeling, simply because of proper nutrition and eating habits.”

Lee-Ann Wells

“I am so grateful for the onsite executive coaching of Health Stand Nutrition Consulting Inc. that our company, Walton Global Investments Ltd., decided to provide to the executives. Of course, I have always known that healthy eating is essential for overall long term health, but it has been with your instructions that I have committed myself to proper nutrition – and it’s working! As a result of these sessions, I am more productive, have more energy at work, and have learned not only what to eat, why and when, but also easy strategies to keep it up. My commitment to long term health has never been better or more fun. Thanks for sharing your expertise and putting me on the path to a healthy life.”

Leslie Fryers, Q.C., ICD.D, Executive Vice President Law, Walton Global Investments Ltd.

“Working with Health Stand Nutrition has been amazing! Their staff is incredibly knowledgeable and provides advice based on “wants” and not just “needs”. I highly recommend Health Stand Nutrition to anyone looking for a healthier lifestyle without sacrificing lifestyle.”

David Hensch

“By giving me a safe place to talk and examine what was or was not working in my life I came to see the opportunity to reduce controllable stress producing behavior which was impacting my body. Generally, I was amazed at the poise and understanding that my Dietitian provided in my sessions. She was empathetic and supportive of positive changes that I made, and understanding of those I didn’t make.”

Beatrice Wilhelm

“I love food. It stimulates each of the senses, keeps us energized toward our goals, yet, I’ve had a rollercoaster relationship with food that was largely based on fear and avoidance. That was until I received some spot-on nutrition education from a Registered Dietitian at Health Stand Nutrition. Working with my Dietitian to address a long-winded battle with anorexia nervosa has been inspiring and empowering. From a restrictive and rule-ridden approach to eating, I’ve developed a healthy and sustainable approach to meals and snacks that supports my goals to travel in the future. I peeled off labels that I thought would never unstick and allowed myself to explore economic, time-saving, and delicious recipes that work for me. If something didn’t’ work, there was space to learn from it, and continuous email feedback helped me stay accountable. I feel grateful for this ongoing support and keen to take on new challenges in my life. The program allowed me to take challenges at my own pace with the guidance of understanding and down to earth professional support.”

C.B.

“I’ve worked with the Health Stand Nutrition team for several years. I’m continuously impressed by the team’s knowledge of health and nutrition and their use of practical strategies to educate and help people live a healthier life. I deeply admire their dedication and commitment to helping individuals with serious health issues who need 1:1 support to make changes. I confidently recommend the services and knowledge of the Health Stand Nutrition team to help both individuals and organizations achieve a healthier, happier lifestyle.”

Catherine Russell

“My Dietitian has been such a positive influence in my eating disorder recovery. I have been able to incorporate grains, soulful foods (like ice cream) and enjoy a glass of wine once in a while. I am able to not go overboard and really tune in to my feelings and check in with myself. I’m setting boundaries for myself and trying to handle those situations by laughing and I find having a better diet is helping me be happier and have more energy and a clear mind. My Dietitian is so genuine, realistic, helpful and honest. I appreciate that she is so down to earth and really just amazing on how supportive and flexible she has been to my needs.”

R.B.

“We went to see a Sports Nutritionist at Health Stand Nutrition to find out how to deal with the near fainting spells my teenage daughter was experiencing during exercise. My daughter learned to take control of her own nutrition needs. As she is very athletic and active she needed to learn to combine enough nutrition and sustenance for her snacks before, during and after sports. Our Nutritionist really engaged my daughter, asked her questions, gave her the information and put her in charge of helping with food preparation, being responsible for making sure the correct ingredients are purchased on time and getting her to self-monitor how she feels each time she makes a change to her diet. I thought that was a wonderful approach, it helped us out a lot and it totally inspired my daughter to live a healthy life style and work towards fitness goals. Thank you very much!”

Monika Salkauska

“I spent three hours with my Dietitian when first diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. I learned more from her about food in those 3 hours than I had learned in all the years of my life. I love the newsletter, there is always something to learn.”

Peter Whitehead

“It was nice to meet with someone that has knowledge about Diabetes and Celiac Disease. What my Dietitian did for me was bring some products to my attention and get me motivated again to make the changes I need to make so that I can feel better again. I enjoyed my sessions with my Dietitian a lot and really appreciate the knowledge she has and the help she gave me to look at things in a more healthy way. She also made me realize that meals don’t need to be complicated and difficult, it really can be fast and easy. Thanks so much for her help.”

Lorie H.

“My dietitian has been amazing to work with. She truly understands what it’s like to have an ADHD brain and the diet struggles it comes with. I plan to book more sessions to continue working on this and couldn’t be happier with her support.”

Lisa Kedian.

“I had four lovely meetings with my dietitian. She was very knowledgable, helpful and her expertise really shone through.”

Lois McCormack

“I was on your webinar with you several months ago. If anything you’ve given me at least a mindset I can follow. It’s nice to hear that I don’t have to give everything up, and since then I’ve been trying harder than I’ve ever had, and I still have things when I want them, but I don’t do the whole cheat day thing, I think that throws a lot of people off. I’d rather just have a bit of something when I want it. I just hit 40 lbs gone, and am looking forward to the next 40. I’m still not perfect in how I eat, and I don’t think I can be, but what I’m doing seems to be working. And I still get my chocolate too…lol…I just try to have it a little at a time. Thanks for changing my mind.”

Read Glenn’s full story here
Glenn DuHart

“My Dietititan is amazing at her job and she truly cares about her clients. When I was doing terribly with my eating disorder and pregnant, she cared enough to follow up with my doctor. I don’t know what things would be like today if she hadn’t done that but I can’t thank her enough! She has helped me so much in developing habits and routines that help me to stay on track with my eating disorder recovery and stay motivated. She was also helpful in communicating with my husband the habits and routines that are helpful in order to stay on the path to recovery. She is easy to be open and honest with. Non-judgmental but also challenges me with eating disorder behaviours and beliefs that I hold on to.”

Lindsay F.

“I reached out after noticing how good my co-worker was looking and she told me about Health Stand Nutrition. I had quit smoking about 8 months prior and was noticing the scale going up and up. I was exercising and staying active and tracking calories, but the more I was keeping track of calories the more frustrated I became and more often than not I was over my daily limit and then would get upset…pig-out and double my daily limit. My Dietitian told me was quit counting calories and if you want a brownie, have the brownie (just be conscious about your decision). I always looked forward to our next sessions as we followed up on previous personal goals and set new ones. She offered advice, recipes, tips and tricks and every time I saw her was another “aha” moment that freed me more. Today, I am conscious about what I eat and drink, I eat balanced meals and never deprive myself. I feel great, I have more energy, and feel stronger. Oh and guess what….the scale has stopped going up. I highly recommend Health Stand for everyone! Even if you think you know it all…I can promise you, you don’t. I would like to send a huge thank you, I’ve never felt better!”

Josie Ballard

“My Dietitian was outstanding for her supportive guidance. At first it all seemed too easy – I could eat anything I want as long as I am responsible? Crazy. It took me a while to trust her ideas until I realized that ultimately it was up to me to get healthy – with her expert guidance. I now focus on enjoying tasty healthy food, committing to exercise, and not focusing on the scale. And the results? Never felt better, eat much more interesting and tasty food (thanks Mediterranean diet) and people tell me it looks like I have lost weight. Feels like it but I’m not checking. Don’t need to. Just loving this healthy feeling.”

Dennis Garnham, Artistic Director, The Grand Theatre

“Health Stand Nutrition counselled my whole family a couple years ago, and we still follow the easy 1-2-3 guidelines to eating healthy. They make eating healthy easy, and understands how to be realistic, practical and forgiving of not being perfect!”

Jacqueline Drew, CEO Tenato Strategy Inc.

“After being on a restrictive diet, I started to binge eat frequently and struggled to get back on track. My Dietitian was very kind, helpful and created a safe environment for me to share. She explained the science behind it and helped me get to intuitive eating. My weight fluctuated 20 lbs over a year, and for the past year and a half it has remained the same. Having worked on this, I have been doing great at my career and feel more wholesome and happy! I highly recommend Health Stand Nutrition for help.”

S.F.

“I’ve been working with them for the last 18 months. From my first virtual visit to set up my program to now, service has been professional and welcoming. I’ve been working via zoom with my dietitian 1:1 and it has been incredibly helpful. She has been informative, provided many excellent resources and is evidence based in her approach. Each session was geared to where I was at a the moment, and each ended with action steps that we identified together that best met my needs. If you are looking for dietitian support to help create a healthier relationship with food, I can highly recommend them.”

– Carla Gibson

“My Dietitian is so non-judgemental and great at listening. She works hard to teach me things and think outside the box in terms of ongoing challenges in negative situations related to my eating disorder recovery. I am always super motivated after my appointments. I am making really positive changes in my lifestyle that are making a big difference.”

Rachel K.

“Andrea has a longstanding, solid reputation with colleagues and clients because of her creative, compassionate, “let’s do it” approach to life and work. Her information is credible, evidence-based and better yet, presented in a way that sticks. I’ve referred clients to her practice for over ten years, knowing their personal struggles and questions will be greeted with zero judgement. Rather, Andrea understands that everyone’s relationship with food can sometimes be distressing or frustrating, and she welcomes a chance to explore solutions that are practical and joyful.”

Dr. Colleen Cannon, Clinical Psychologist, Co-founder Craving Change Inc.

“I now understand the requirements my body needs for my athletic goals / lifestyle and understand how to achieve these requirements.”

John B.

“I’m happy to report that I bought new pants that were 4 pants sizes smaller. I still wear my belt, but more for looks, as much as it is to hold up my pants. I wanted to thank you for the things that you taught me, I’ve implemented many things on a daily basis and continue to do them.”

Jane Weston

“My overall experience with Healthstand has been phenomenal! Right from the beginning, I felt like I was at the right place to make real changes in my life that matter and will eventually lead to a sustainable healthy lifestyle. The intake coordinator, was friendly and professional. She took the time to help me understand the process and ensure that the program I selected was the best fit for my needs. She made time over her own conflicting priorities to ensure that I felt supported right from the start and answered all my questions. She connected me with my dietitian. My sessions with my dietitian were insightful and amazing. She partnered with me right off the bat on this journey and became my sounding board as well as my coach to ensure that the choices I made fit my goals and were value add to my lifestyle. She encouraged me to bring my best while being empathetic to the multitude of responsibilities I was juggling in my life. The staff at Healthstand are amazing people who want you to succeed. They don’t just support you for the sessions you sign up for but are very much available to be your long term support if you ever need it. Thank you Healthstand for everything you have done for me.”

– Nidhi Manohar

“My Dietitian was supportive and comforting, funny and knowledgeable. Throughout our assessment, we discussed portion sizes, what constitutes a healthy meal and snack, caloric intake and energy levels. She gave me tips about integrating regular snacks into my meal plan and a slick tracking tool to record them as well as to manage changes I am making to my diet. I felt we were in partnership regarding my health and wellness and we came up with a plan which is reasonable, sustainable and tailor-made for me. If you are looking for a Registered Dietician to help move you forward on your path to wellness, I would highly recommend Health Stand Nutrition.”

Colleen Biondi

“I went to Health Stand Nutrition for help to gain weight. I ate meals but could not gain weight. My Dietitian listened to my concerns and understood my problem. She made me feel at ease and I felt that she was interested in my concerns and could help me. She gave me a meal planning package to help build balanced meals and healthy snacks. She wrote out suggestions so I had notes to refer to when I returned home. I was especially pleased when she gave me recipes to get me started on my road to healthy eating. I also enjoyed my sessions. We chatted and had a few laughs. My Dietitian knows about nutrition and understands people. I would highly recommend Health Stand Nutrition to anyone needing help in planning and eating nutritional meals.”

Diane Harris

“I originally went to see my Dietitian with a desire to gain control of a binging problem. I have always been an all or none eater. A “good day” consisted of only healthy eating. No sugar, no treats, and very few carbs. If I “broke down” and had one cookie it then became a “bad day” and the eating was out of control and my whole day was bad. As a result I tried every diet and fad to lose weight. But the only thing I gained was even worse eating habits and more binging. Food consumed my mind and I found it hard to enjoy meal times. My Dietitian taught me how to not “diet” but eat the right amounts of a variety of food to feel full and satisfied. And most important she taught me that the grey area is OK. It’s okay to have a treat without guilt. I now have my bingeing under control and eat the right amounts of food to give me the energy I need. And I have a “treat” every day – in control – knowing that there’s always tomorrow to have it again. And for the first time in my life I am not totally consumed with what I’m eating. I can actually enjoy going out for dinner and preparing meals! I also feel confident I am teaching my daughters a healthy balance about food and eating. Thanks!”

Alanna

“I signed up for a registered dietician and requested one due to her previous rave reviews and I was not disappointed at all. My dietitian is very knowledgeable and provided me with a ton of useful information based on what I told her I was looking for. I had 4 sessions with her, which she was able to accommodate my schedule and each session was filled with info that created so much awareness for me. I have been able to come up with plans to help me achieve my goal. My dietitian is great about taking notes and sharing links post session which you can refer to, as a guide. She follows up on any action items that were discussed. She is very approachable and easy to talk to and never makes you feel bad for some goals that you were not able to achieve. She always puts a positive light on things and comes up with plans discussing with me, that are sustainable in the long run and not something that provides quick results. I am very happy with the sessions I’ve had with her and have left the sessions more knowledgeable and aware than I was before I started these sessions. A huge thank you to my dietitian! I would highly recommend her as your RD, if you are looking for one.”

– D S

“I have had a fantastic experience with my dietitian from Health Stand. I did 10 sessions and each one was very informative and helpful. My dietitian took the time to get to know me and quickly was able to make me feel comfortable sharing with her. Her methods really matched my personality which made the process go so smoothly as I was able to understand and integrate the strategies and information she was sharing with me. I appreciated how caring and practical she was and always felt supported and understood. While I was supplied with many resources and “homework” to review and complete, it never felt overwhelming or like busy work. All resources were highly applicable and actively functioned to help me attain the goals and level of understanding I was seeking. I would highly recommend Health Stand and my dietitian to anyone willing and wanting to understand nutrition and their relationship with food on a better level.”

Sadie Dumba

“Thanks to my Sports Nutritionists awesome advice on what to eat before and after workouts, I find that I always have the energy to continue on with my day, even after a very hard swim or a difficult day in the weight room. I have even noticed a difference in my competitive swimming as I now have more focus and more determination, which I’m sure is a result of the advice that my Nutritionist gave me. The plans are great because they incorporate small changes that seem to make huge differences in my day.  I loved her healthy alternatives to a few of the foods that I like. I also loved the recipes she gave me! Thank you again for all your help.”

Carla

“I went to see my Dietitian almost a year ago now with a cholesterol problem. After analyzing my current diet and changes that I already made, she was able to present a multitude of further choices that would help even further. One of the best things in the changes to my diet that I appreciated was that I was able to continue to eat a lot of the foods I like. I only had to change some of the preparation methods and quantity. With the changes we made to my diet as well as exercise, I was able to reduce my cholesterol by over one unit in only 3 months. My Dietitian is very positive minded, and helps you focus on what needs to be done to achieve your goal. At the same time you feel committed, not pressured, to do what it takes. Thank you very much.”

Bjorn

“It was life changing information. My dietitian identified nutrition problems from a physiological and psychological perspective and gave evidence-based solutions. She is also actively upgrading her knowledge to better understand the topic of nutrition. She is a great pick for somebody who is actively looking to change and improve their eating habits for a healthier life.”

– Jay See

“When I found that my weight gain was beginning to interfere with my lifestyle, I decided that it was time to engage some professional assistance. From the day that I first met my Dietitian, her bouncy enthusiasm for her work was infectious. She is a very knowledgeable professional who brings a down home approach to her advice. She works with her clients in a manner that best suits their needs. My Dietitian and I agreed on a reasonable objective and then developed a strategy to achieve it. The objective was to lose weight at a reasonable pace until I had the overweight problem under control. The strategy was for me to develop a better understanding of the nutritional value of various foods and how they worked together in the human body to aid in healthy living. We mixed the nutritional discussion with other lifestyle commentary which enabled me to put the whole issue in context. One thing that I felt was very important from the beginning was to have fun doing it and not to lose energy as a result of lowering my caloric intake, as I exercise regularly as well. In fact, eating smarter increased my energy level. My Dietitian had many helpful hints in day to day living which enabled me to make the “dieting” aspect of the strategy very manageable. The simplest piece of advice that my Dietitian gave me was that there wasn’t anything that I couldn’t eat while on the program as long as I understood what I was eating and the impact it would have on my progress. A simple, initial target to lose 5 -10 pounds turned into an updated goal of losing 30 pounds. When that was achieved over six months, without ever feeling hungry, I decided to go for 40 pounds, which is where I was many, many years ago. Having achieved that milestone, my Dietitian and I are now working on a strategy to stabilize my weight loss and to ensure that the eating habit improvements achieved are embedded into my normal routine. I recommend Health Stand Nutrition very highly to anyone who would like to better understand the value of the food they are consuming and to learn some helpful, customized hints to improve their eating habits in a healthy, user friendly, way.”

John Watson

“I was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure and wanted to get helpful advice to get me eating better and on the right track as soon as possible.  My wife found Health Stand and we gave them a call. They had me matched up with a nutritionist right away.  My nutritionist was wonderful, extremely helpful and very encouraging.  I feel I’m on the right path now to keeping my blood sugar and pressure under control and can maintain this way of eating without feeling like I’m losing out. Also, fantastic people on the office side of things too who took my info, got me setup with the nutritionist and got my invoice updated after every appointment so it could be submitted for reimbursement.  All around positive experience and would recommend Health Stand to friends and family.”

Matt Springer 

“My dietitian at Health Stand has been an incredible support for me over the past year. I signed up for the 18-session package because I have multiple food sensitivities, and understanding what I could eat let alone finding recipes that worked was a real challenge.

What I appreciated most was how genuine and compassionate her support was. Our sessions did not always follow a strict preplanned structure, and I truly valued that. She met me where I was at each time. My dietitian offered thoughtful suggestions, plenty of recipes, and steady encouragement to keep trying, even when many recipes still needed some adjustments to fit my sensitivities.

Before contacting Health Stand, I had worked with two other nutritionists both of them using ChatGPT, not the kind of support I was looking for. When I came here, I had a choice between two practitioners, and I very clearly chose the best one for me. My dietitian’s care, patience, and flexibility made a real difference, especially during the sessions where I rambled and needed space to process what I was going through.

Thank you for all of your support. I would absolutely recommend Health Stand to anyone looking for compassionate and personalized nutritional support.”

– Duane Marran

“I just wanted to share with you the measurable changes that have occurred in my health/life since our first meeting about three and a half months ago. My total cholesterol has dropped from 5.8 to 4.6, and my doctor tells me to expect a further substantial reduction over the next year or so. My weight has dropped approximately 13 lbs. so far. I find that I need about one to one and a half hours less sleep per night than I needed before, to have the same energy the next day. Lastly, my digestion improved. There was nothing wrong with it before, but now it is turbocharged! This is all pretty exciting stuff for me, and I attribute it 100% to the program that you laid out for me. I will continue to mention you to people who might benefit from the same thing you did for me.”

Pat

“My Dietitian has been very helpful with some blood sugar difficulties that I have been dealing with for years. She taught me how to eat in a way that keeps me full and ensures that my energy levels are high. Feeling light headed due to low blood sugar levels has been a consistent problem for me, probably since adolescence. I seldom experience this now, and if I do, I am now aware of what specific types of food to eat that are beneficial to me. I feel much healthier and through a combination of eating the proper foods, spacing meals and snacks appropriately and daily exercise I have lost 15 pounds – an added bonus I was not expecting. I have gone from being very close to having diabetes 6 months ago, to having current blood sugar levels that are normal. I am so pleased with the way my Dietitians advice has helped me create a healthier lifestyle.”

Barbara

“I originally came to see my Sports Nutritionist looking for assistance in attaining some very specific goals that I have struggled to achieve for more than 10 years, even with the assistance of other ‘nutritional professionals.’ I play professional lacrosse for the Calgary Roughnecks, and as a professional athlete I have found that the physical demands of my sport call for a very scientific approach to nutrition coupled with expert knowledge of sport-specific training routines. This truth combined with the natural hurdles of my vegetarian diet (I’ve been a vegetarian for over 15 years), have made my goals of weight-gain (and maintenance) very challenging. It was not until I begin nutritional sessions with my Sports Nutritionist that my objective of adding positive pounds (size and strength) in the amount of 15-20 lbs was realized. Moreover, I was able to achieve my goals in a much shorter time-span than I originally thought possible. Thanks to my Nutritionist, and her professional, sport-specific advice, I have achieved my weight-gain objectives, which has in turn greatly enhanced my game – all without compromising my dietary restrictions.”

John Kilbride, professional lacrosse athlete, Calgary Roughnecks 

“I readily admit that as it related to the ED, I couldn’t understand the value of a dietician when our therapist first suggested it. Our daughter was already seeing a therapist weekly and knew ALOT about food, nutrition, and healthy eating habits (yes, we understand the irony). I couldn’t have been more wrong.
One of our biggest challenges was the emotional disconnect that had become obvious with the ED and was steadily and rapidly getting worse. Our daughter was depressed, angry, withdrawn; she felt unreachable no matter what we tried. Having our Dietitian meant that we could step back from ensuring my daughter was eating enough calories to survive and focusing on making sure she wasn’t getting sicker, and focus on supporting, encouraging, and validating her needs and experience. I cannot express this enough: THIS WAS LIFE CHANGING.

We couldn’t make any progress related to food AT ALL, but she would see our Dietitian and return home ready to face whatever challenge they had agreed to. Even if the challenge felt impossible, their agreement meant that I was there to comfort and support, not plan and manage – this made a massive difference in our relationship and put a stop to the power struggles over food. I have NO DOUBT that her recovery went MUCH quicker and our relationship is actually stronger now primarily due to having our Dietitian as part of our recovery team.

Our Dietitian also provided our daughter with another neutral third party that she could talk to, someone young enough to connect with and who isn’t her parent. She could say things to our Dietitian and be understood without having to overexplain or worry about hurting feelings. Our Dietitian has this ability to meet a teen where they’re at, speak to them on their level without talking down to them or being clinical. She made our daughter feel heard and powerful enough to overcome this loud voice that was tormenting her. My daughter would enter angry and sick and would emerge calmer and more secure; those good feelings were fleeting at first, but over time they lasted longer and longer.

Another huge benefit was that we could trust that the progress she was making with the Dietitian was ‘enough’, so we could stop obsessing over her food intake and focus on our daughter. If you have a child with an ED, you understand the crushing weight created by the worry and uncertainty. Also, having someone with ED experience meant that we could turn to her when we had questions about my daughter’s progress and healing and what next steps would/should/could look like. This was incredibly valuable because as you walk through recovery with your child it can feel like you’re in a forest at night without directions -lost, helpless, fearful, panicked. Our Dietitian has the map and the flashlight.

She also ‘held our hands’ as we learned how to sit with our daughter as she tried new challenges. She provided multiple resources and strategies that we used to help my daughter – we were fearful of pushing her too hard that she’d shut down, and also fearful of not holding the line and letting the ED gain traction; without our Dietitian it would have been incredibly difficult for us to know what to do. She was such a steadying and encouraging force whenever we had questions or we had a difficult experience, and a wonderful cheerleader when things went well.

There is absolutely no question that our Dietitian was absolutely invaluable to us.”

Caylie V.

“I knew when I signed up for Ironman Canada, that I would need to ensure my nutrition was going to support the demands of an endurance training plan. I came to see a Sports Nutritionist and the information she provided to me was exactly what I needed. I came away with a formula to calculate precisely the amounts of carbohydrates and protein I needed as well as a new awareness of how to best restock my body’s fuel reserves and when to do so after working out. The information was invaluable to me for a successful training season and allowed me to fulfill all the training sets I needed to do, and have the energy to do every last one of them! I was confident about my food plan, which was absolutely integral to my successful year and competition. I never once felt that I had to compromise being a vegetarian as I knew exactly what my parameters were and how to best achieve optimal nutritional health.”

Debbie

“I met with a Sports Nutritionist at Health Stand Nutrition to discuss my personal goals, which were to increase my energy levels and muscle mass. She did a fantastic job at individually assessing my needs and offered numerous food choices that were catered for me. Since my visit, I have noticed an incredible change, I am feeling a lot stronger during my workouts, and my energy levels are higher then ever! I would without a doubt recommend Health Stand Nutrition to any individual looking to improve their lifestyle, no matter what fitness level or goal they have!”

Jeff Lindstrom

“I am very active and involved in competitive sports but my eating habits were a total disaster. My portion sizes were too large, my meals were not balanced and I was always hungry. I went to see a Dietitian at Health Stand Nutrition so she could help me in terms of eating properly and maybe guide me to losing all my extra pounds. And did she ever. She explained to me what I was doing wrong and why and what would be the right things to do. Her explanations, diagrams, charts, and recipes made sense to someone who had never really paid too much attention to their diet. I have lost over 20 lbs just by eating properly and continuing to exercise regularly. She bestowed me with confidence and made it all seem so easy, which I now realize it is. I feel great, have a tremendous amount of energy and fit into my jeans at the back of the closet again.”

Vanessa

“Since meeting with my Sports Dietitian I feel that I have a better understanding of the nutritional needs for my body. I am a 19 year old competitive short track speed skater. This past season I had a lot of trouble with sickness and low energy. I thought I ate well, trained hard and recovered well enough to maintain my busy lifestyle and athletic performance. I tried many things to regain my energy; I rested more and even compromised training programs. I have always tried to eat “healthy.” To me healthy meant fewer treats and a restrictive lifestyle. After meeting with my Sports Nutritionist I discovered that my thinking was wrong. As an athlete my energy needs are high. She has taught me how to balance my eating in order to maintain my desired performance. My energy level has increased significantly. I have learned that being healthy does not have to be restrictive and complicated. She has helped me gain a greater understanding of nutrition, so that I can apply it to my lifestyle in practical ways. I really appreciated her wisdom, understanding and enthusiasm.”

Kylee

“When I became pregnant I was concerned that my vegetarian diet may affect my growing baby. As a result, my doctor recommended that I see a Nutritionist. Visiting my Nutritionist was a great move because I learned that while my diet was basically good, there were many ways to improve upon it. I had to pay particular attention to my daily intake of protein, iron and calcium. It was a little challenging at first, as I had never been used to consciously planning my meals. However, I now had more than just myself to think about and so I was determined to do things right. I was grateful for all the handouts I was given and the many menu suggestions. I have never been much of a cook and have little imagination in that dept. I was therefore pleased that the suggestions were often very easy to prepare, though not necessarily obvious to the nutritionally-challenged! I also received great information on baby nutrition, something I have just started re-reading as our daughter is now 6 months old. Between us we’ve built a very healthy, bouncing baby.”

Peta

“Why is it that we wait until something goes wrong before we take action to ensure our body gets the proper nutrition it needs to stay healthy. I made it all the way to age 53 before my balloon popped. I’d always thought I was eating properly, boozing socially and often congratulated myself that I didn’t smoke. My problems were cholesterol related and became evident at my annual medical examination. My Doctor was shocked when he passed me the results of my blood work. He gave me six months to get my ducks back in order and a requisition to repeat the blood work by year end. If I could not normal my cholesterol level I was going on the pill. I hate pills! I then met with a Dietitian from Health Stand Nutrition. In six months and three short meetings my Dietitian passed her nutrition experience to me. I followed her plan and made some lifestyle changes. Together we shocked my Doctor again! This time a positive shock. Will I be staying with the plan? You bet….. Thanks. You do great work. Yours now with: Normal Cholesterol.”

Charlie

“It has been nearly 2 years now since my struggles with anorexia first began. At my lowest, I weighed just barely more than 37 kg (82 lbs.). I had lost hope that recovery was ever possible and at points was ready to simply give up. I find it difficult to explain exactly what anorexia does to a person, but it was a constant tormentor and I suffered immensely. My Dietitian has been working with me for over a year now and with her help I have come a long way. She encouraged me to continuously seek help and honestly gave me the hope that I could get through this. Together, we worked on increasing my meal plans and adding in new foods, since my list of ‘safe’ foods had gotten smaller and smaller with time. Gradually, my list grew more and more, and with it, so did my confidence. There has been a dramatic shift in my eating patterns. I went from barely eating anything in a day to now eating 3 meals and 2 snacks each and every day. For the first time in over two years I feel ‘normal’. I am pleased to say that I have gained back all the weight that I lost and even a bit more to ensure I remain healthy at nearly 100 lbs. I can’t say that I’m 100% cured, because recovery from an eating disorder is a long and trying process. But, what I can say is that I have made many changes to my life and my hopes for the future have returned. I decided to write this letter because I truly believe that if my Dietitian could help me, she can help anyone. I can imagine that at times I must have been an extremely difficult client, but she never gave up on me. And because of her, I am here to tell you all my story of success.”

J.B.

“Working with my Dietitian has had significant impact on my health and quality of life. She motivates one to make important health changes through helping you set achievable goals, one at a time. This process allows a person to make life changes not just temporary fixes. For example, it’s taken time to lose 6 lbs. but they are staying OFF! I have a lot more energy, and know how to get good energy at times of the day I need it. I am rarely ill. My blood pressure is way down. I love nutritious foods and new culinary adventures. My Dietitian is positive and patient – there isn’t a goal you feel you can’t tackle.”

Judy

“My usual tricks for losing weight were no longer working and I realized that I needed to become more informed about food and its effect on my body. With my Dietitians help, I have discovered how to gain control over my weight by making simple choices concerning what and when to eat. The results have been very gratifying in terms of weight loss and my overall health.”

Gayle

“This note is to say thank you so much for all your help with my nutritional questions. I have learnt so much from you. I found it quite fascinating to learn how to group foods together to get the best possible effects and how to choose foods which suited my lifestyle. I feel so much more energized. I know I will use the information you gave me the rest of my life and will impart this knowledge to my family and friends. I found your suggestions on lowering my blood pressure and choosing heart healthy foods a great help. Thank you once again, I know I will recommend you to anyone I feel needs help with his or her nutrition.”

Ann 

“My Dietitian was a tremendous help to me in changing my eating patterns only slightly to make a huge difference in my ability to control hunger. So long as I keep to that pattern of eating, I can feel well, energetic and fit. Weight loss is always very slow for me, but at least being able to not feel hungry all the time helps curb some of my unnecessary eating. Feeling well and improving on fatigue is a real bonus. My Dietitian made me feel like it is very possible to deal with the hunger that was getting in the way of my losing weight.”

Lois

“I was advised be my doctor to consult a Dietician for help in reducing my cholesterol levels and in losing some weight. My Dietitian gave me great advice on the kinds of foods to eat to help me to do so and what times of the day to eat certain foods in order to keep my energy levels up. She also gave me some recipes to use and the ones I have tried so far have been delicious. My Dietitian is very helpful and is willing to spend time explaining her suggestions to you, without making you feel that if you eat something “bad” you are a failure. I know that I can call on her at any time, if I have any questions related to diet.”

Nan

“Last week my doctor recommended that I come to see you. I am thankful that she recommended you. After only one meal I noticed a change. I really don’t remember feeling this good for a long time. My cravings for sweets has diminished and it’s just a bad habit now. Soon to be broken. I have more energy and I am full for a much longer period of time. I can’t believe what a difference this has made. Just by altering a few combinations and adding more carbs to my diet it has made a huge difference. I also eat smaller meals and snack in between. I am acutely aware if I have made a poor choice as I go from feeling great to not so good. I am much more aware now of what I’m putting in my mouth. I don’t want to feel crappy anymore because of the food I’ve decided to eat or not eat. Eating at the right times makes such a difference. I feel great. Thanks for finishing University. I’m sending a letter to my doctor also.”

Lynn

“I was recently diagnosed as glucose intolerant. With my Dietitian’s assistance I have been able to reduce my glucose level to near normal in a very short period of time. She helped us with meal planning, provided valuable information on food and shared many excellent recipes. Her approach was very professional, practical and informative. We are well on our way to a healthier lifestyle.”

Lee

“What I love most about the Health Stand Dietitians is how they help people with healthy eating while still enjoying their favourite foods! I highly recommend the Health Stand team for credible nutrition advice and non-judgemental support in making lasting changes.”

Richelle Tabelon, Registered Dietitian

“I am 48 years old. About 3 years ago I weighed over 240lbs and was totally out of shape. I decided to try to lose weight and get fit. I started by walking the dog and then worked my way up to running. I entered a 10 K race and started to feel much better. Next I ran a half marathon and then finished a 180 km bike race. In February of last year I was 211lbs and 27.5% body fat. I could not seem to lose any more weight so went to see a Dietitian at Health Stand Nutrition. The plan was simple and very easy to follow and it worked. By October 3rd of this year I was down to 184 pounds and 19.9% body fat. I ran 2 Marathons and competed in the Mad Hawk, a 3 day Ironman distance triathlon where I completed the 180 km bike portion of the race an hour better than my time last year. Since then I have devoted more time to weight lifting. My weight has gone up slightly since muscle weighs more than fat. I now weigh 193 lbs but my body fat is down to 15.7%. Since I first started working with my Dietitian she has given me much more information on healthy eating, blood pressure reduction, and eating for endurance events. Her program is easy follow and stay on. I eat everything I did before just smaller portions. Sure every once in a while I pig out on something, but as my Dietitian says it is what you do 90% of the time that counts so don’t worry about one meal here or there. I don’t write down everything I eat each day anymore because making healthy choices has become more or less second nature. I think people as a rule underestimate what they eat and overestimate the physical activity they do. The fad diets may work for a time but can you stick with them? Will you have energy to be active? Can you eat regular food or will you be buying special diet food? Will you be eating the same food as the rest of the family? I think sensible eating as my Dietitian prescribes is the only way to go.”

J.V.

“Almost a year has gone since I first contacted Health Stand Nutrition. My lifestyle was preparing me for an early grave. I was working one full time job as well as subcontracting which used up a considerable amount of my time. I kept going by consuming large amounts of caffeine and taking pain killers to alleviate the headaches so I could handle the next day which held even more unrealistic expectations. Having so much on my plate lead me to grabbing fast food daily. My weight had sky-rocketed and once again, I was classed as obese. To top that, I had developed lactose intolerance and I had found out I had been anemic for several months. I also wanted to ensure that I am getting adequate nutrition to reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer & osteoporosis. By some stroke of luck, despite my excessive weight I had not developed high blood pressure or high cholesterol levels. My Dietitian did not give me a diet. She evaluated my eating habits. She provided me with a wealth of information. Most people see the big accomplishment as the weight loss. And they like to see that big number. I don’t want to tell how much I lost. I am still embarrassed about getting that heavy. I will say that I have lost somewhere between 35-40% of my original weight. Also, the number of pounds that I lost is not where I wanted to focus. That’s just cosmetic. Here are some numbers that are more deserving of a pat on the back.  About a year ago, I was totally out of breath trying to complete a 10 K hike with and elevation gain of 350 Meters. Six months after my first consultation with my Dietitian, I completed a 2 day 167 KM bike race. I have also gone on 34 hikes this year in the mountains (~480 KM with a total elevation gain of over 23 thousand meters. I got to go to places that I had not been before. I recently started trying indoor climbing. And I was recently introduced to snow shoeing. I think I’m hooked on both. The one thing that cannot be measured is the levels of energy, alertness and confidence that comes with getting healthier. And there no way I can describe the rush when I completed the bike tour or made it to the top of a climbing wall the first time. And the best photographer cannot capture what you get to see when you cross a mountain ridge.  I have discontinued subcontracting. I have not felt the loss of income – by the time I factored in how often I was eating out because I was too tired to prepare my own meals, I don’t think I was making anything. I have also completely given up caffeine and pain-killers and feel much more relaxed. I do give myself credit for what I have been able to do. It did not come without hard work. But I did find that the hardest part is the first month or so. After that, it becomes habit. My Dietitian helped by helping me with food plans to address my specific issues. She did not tell me to eat this or not eat this. She looked at what I wanted to accomplish and what I was willing to do to reach my goals and helped me develop my own plans – ones that I knew I would follow. While your goals may be completely different than mine, Health Stand Nutrition can help you come up with a plan to get you there.”

P.C.

“I have been a Registered Psychologist for 14 years working in the area of Eating Disorders. When I am first approached by a client suffering from an Eating Disorder, I always try to ensure they also make a connection with Health Stand Nutrition before I agree to take them on as clients. My reasoning for this is because the dietitians at Health Stand are realistic, down-to-earth, practical and beyond knowledgeable. Therefore, they are absolutely key in the recovery process.  

Between Jana Spindler and I’s collaboration this past decade, we have successfully helped many families with very complex eating disorder presentations. Without Jana’s wealth of food science expertise and her firm, yet warm approach, I’m not sure how far I could get with my clients. 

Jana provides sensible and attainable solutions, offers amazing advice, and wraps it up in warm, emotionally connected conversations. She validates what someone is going through all while educating, guiding and firmly directing the change that is needed.  It truly is the perfect balance for ED recovery. 

If you are even remotely interested in working with Health Stand or taking this group program specifically, let my testimonial convince you to sign up. The Health Stand team is what I consider to be the best in the business and I would trust anyone in their care.  Along with any knowledge or expertise they offer to families going through such a challenging time.”  

– Danelle Spence, Registered Psychologist @ Root Psychology   

“I admit I went to see a Dietitian with somewhat of a closed mind, thinking she was going to be some “granola feeding dietitian”. Was I surprised! My Dietitian’s practical approach and acceptance of human nature helped me to lose 40 lbs and 6 pant sizes; and this was the absolute easiest way to lower my cholesterol. The tailored program allows me to eat whatever I want. The ongoing consultation and having my wife join the program definitely made a difference in my life.”

Mike Podovinnikoff

“I learned how to leave dieting for life. I was taught how to intuitively eat. This was well over 6 years ago and I’ve never looked back. I also sent my son (age 11 at the time) in to get excited and to learn about meal prep and nutrition. He came out of it pumped for fruit and veggie smoothies. He can make a mean chicken finger dinner for us now!! Thanks team! I have and will continue to highly recommend working with your group!”

Jennifer Desilets

“Our family came to Health Stand seeking support and guidance for our adult daughter (JB) after she completed an extended eating disorder day program at Alberta Children’s Hospital (12 weeks). With the help of an excellent program, an incredible health team and her own remarkable determination, JB moved through and beyond suicidal thoughts, bulimia, and depression. Following the program, JB continued her recovery, meeting regularly with psychologists, a psychiatrist, an occupational therapist and medical doctors. Still dealing with anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, attention deficit disorder and anorexia, we felt JB needed ongoing nutritional support with someone she respected. One of JB’s psychologists recommended Health Stand.  

JB made a great choice inviting our dietitian, a highly equipped registered dietician, to be part of her recovery team. JB appreciated our dietitian because she called JB out on her “BS”. JB could not hide much from our dietitian, and this was crucial in JB’s progress. Lies, and manipulation of the truth were often used by the eating disorder. It was a relief to have another person on JB’s team that saw eating disorder for what it truly was – ever changing, multi-layered, difficult to grasp, and not attached to JB’s identity or value. Our dietitian validated the experiences we were having, while detecting and calling out the tactics or schemes of the eating disorder.  

With JB’s invitation and approval, there were no topics off the table. We were supported in our desire to be honest and vulnerable. Our dietitian encouraged questions and accepted the range of emotions that accompany recovery, while providing an open, honest, and respectful environment for our meetings. And whether we were experiencing a good day or a hard day, knowing we were always “on the same team”, was a valuable key in addressing the eating disorder.  

Our dietitian was great at providing suggestions to improve weekly outcomes. She not only challenged JB, but at times provided us as parents, with alternative actions and words to think about and/or implement. Our dietitian also encouraged us to connect with her with questions or concerns in between appointments. Knowing there was help available outside of an appointment was a huge relief. 

Having a strong, knowledgeable, and compassionate team was crucial in JB’s journey to recovery. We were thankful our dietitian recognized the value and importance of working collaboratively with other health professionals caring for our daughter. 

We found a family-centred approach toward recovery to be very beneficial, even as parents of an adult daughter. We have all learned a great deal over the years. Our relationship, which has always been loving, supportive and accepting, is now even richer and deeper! Learning about our strengths and areas to develop, helped us to grow into healthier individuals, resulting in a healthier family.  

JB now uses the various skills she has learned to be open and honest, to articulate her needs, advocate for herself, identity triggers, and to ask for help. We are so very thankful for JB’s progress! Her determination, joy and self-love, qualities the eating disorder tried to twist, shutdown and claim for itself, are now back where they belong, planted firmly in her beautiful heart and mind. 

Working with our dietitian has helped us to know and understand each other more fully, to see the various ways we all cope, deal with stress and handle our insecurities. We are a richer family because of all the help we have received. Now that JB has been doing well for some time, we as parents have taken a back seat, and encouraged JB and our dietitian to continue working together without our direct involvement. Having said that, we know if we ever have concerns and/or questions, our dietitian is available. And that is a blessing!” 

Carla

“As a fellow Dietitian, I often refer clients to the team at Health Stand Nutrition. I know they have a practical, holistic view of client’s needs. And help their clients to make lifestyle changes to feel better whether it’s through a healthier relationship with food, more organized kitchen or managing a health condition.”

Jennifer House, Registered Dietitian

“Some of the things I learned with my dietitian. I found my 4-week sessions with my dietitian very informative and helpful. I learned what kind of textures and fluid consistency are safe for my medical condition, how to eat at the dinner table sitting upright on a chair instead of standing up like I used to do. The idea of building balanced meals that include carbohydrates, vegetables/fruits, and protein, using equal amounts of each category is a great technique for satisfaction. The first time I tried it, I couldn’t believe how it helped me to feel full longer between meals. My dietitian imparts his knowledge in a kind, patient way and welcomes questions.  I plan to follow his advice since it has helped me enjoy my food more and feel stronger. Thank you.”

Diane Harris

“I was looking for guidance during my second pregnancy in an effort to educate myself on how to best care myself and understand nutrition. I have tried every fad diet out there and even when losing weight I realized none of it was sustainable and it left me feeling physically weak. I reached out to Health Stand Nutrition and I was assigned my dietician and through her I was able to learn a lot of useful information about nutrition. I finally understood why none of the fad diets will never stick or help in the long run.

I was also able to stave off gestational diabetes with my second pregnancy. I have been told it is very unlikely to not have gestational diabetes the second time after having it the first time. I believe it was due to the lessons learnt on how to eat nutritious food and also staying active during my pregnancy.

I believe Health Stand Nutrition is just what you need to educate yourself and transform your habits that lead to a healthy and sustainable lifestyle. There are tons of useful resources available and your dietician will always be willing to help you at any point in your journey :)”

Veena Jose

“I really enjoyed my sessions with my dietitian at Health Stand Nutrition. She taught me a lot and listened to me. She did not try to force her ways of thinking like dieticians have done in the past thinking that was best for me. I am currently using the tools she gave me and will be booking more sessions in the new year.  I highly recommend them.”

Courtney Franzon

“I am a recently retired, extremely active health and fitness nut. I’ve always felt that I’ve been pretty good about managing my food choices, but I didn’t know for sure. I came to Health Stand Nutrition looking for 3 things.1. Confirmation that what I was currently eating was overall the right approach. 2. A deep dive into how my current diet stacked up against the daily recommended values of all the macro and micro nutrients. 3. Develop a plan for how I could adapt and change my diet throughout the aging process. And I can tell you that they absolutely delivered on all 3 fronts! I’m now more confident than ever in my nutrition as I look to enjoy great health for years to come.

From the initial 15 minute consultation, to the 3 hours spent picking the brain of the sports nutritionist that was assigned to me, I felt like I was heard every step of the way. 1. I wanted confirmation that my current diet was in general pretty good. Check. I wanted a deep dive into the macro and micro nutrients that I was currently getting and needed to get. Check. I wanted a plan for the future as I head into my retirement years as an extremely active fitness nut. Again, check.

In my experience, Health Stand Nutrition will definitely give you want you want and need to satisfy your nutritional goals.”

Trent Doell

“Thank you to my dietitian for all their efforts in helping me with my issues. Very much appreciated all the tips and solutions to what I have been dealing with. Love the new recipes my dietitian got me into and have tried a lot of them. I am sleeping better and have had less stomach pain. What a relief!! My dietitian also inspired me to bump up my cardio and as a result I am beginning to see my weight reduce.”

Thanks again,

Marge Sealock

“My dietitian always explains information in great details very carefully and patiently. She is ready to spend time to clarify and get across all the facts to her patient, even better than the dietitians at the hospital. More importantly, she gives detailed session notes after each session,  allowing further reading on our own, thus enhancing confidence of the patient under her medical care. My dietitian is indeed a very knowledgeable, mindful and responsible dietitian.”

Jenny & Dixon Lok

“My dietitian is knowledgeable and very helpful. He is good at his work. I personally trust him for my diet without any questions. If you are looking for nutritionist,  and confused about whom to select, I highly recommend everyone to go for him. He won’t disappoint your expectations. Apart from his professional work, he is kind and listens actively.”

Miyu Vaghasiya

“Both my dietitians were such a great resource and support. They helped me to identify my unique concerns, and find the best person and resources to help me achieve my goals. Since working with the team at Health Stand I feel better prepared to enjoy balanced meals that meet my specific needs, identify and work to avoid any triggering foods for my IBS symptoms, and how to maintain my goals in the long term. I would highly recommend Health Stand to anyone who is seeking the support of a registered dietician.”

Megan Eileen

“My sessions with my dietitian have been top-notch! She reads me well and discerns what it is I’m asking, where my confusion lies, and what information I need in order to make good food choices. She provides diagrams and links to further explain what she’s teaching me. I could not have successfully navigated pre-diabetes without her help!”

Patchwork Peanut

“Met with my dietitian and was very impressed. She was incredibly knowledgeable and spent the time to walk me through the details of what I needed to focus on for my goals and we developed an action plan. She made sure I had everything I needed and we even ran over time to make sure we accomplished everything. Highly recommend for anyone looking to level up their nutrition game!”

Chris Wallace

“I am a psychologist in private practice and it is very important to me that my clients have the best care with other health care professionals. For that reason Health Stand Nutrition is my only source for exceptional Dietitians. Andrea and her team provide highly knowledgeable, compassionate, and real world support to my clients who require assistance with food lifestyle. I trust my clients to them and you would be in excellent hands making them part of your health care team.”

Adele Fox, Psychologist

“I can’t recommend my dietitian enough. She was recommended to me by Anne Marie, another nutritionist at Health Stand, and I’m so grateful I found her. Working with her has truly been life-changing. Unlike any nutritionist I’ve seen before, she really took the time to understand my relationship with food, the social pressures around it, and how these beliefs are shaped by culture. Her approach wasn’t just about nutrition—it was about healing, unlearning, and rebuilding in a way that felt personal, supportive, and empowering.

What stood out most was how she challenged my perspectives in a way that felt safe and constructive. As she got to know me, she recognized that what I really needed was a healthier, more balanced relationship with food—one based on joy, gratitude, and sustainability rather than rigid structure or strict rules. Her personal approach made all the difference, tailoring her guidance to what actually resonated with me. More than anything, I felt truly cared for. She created a space where I felt understood, supported, and never alone in the process. Her insight into how societal expectations, social media, and feminism shape our relationships with food and body image made our work together even more impactful.

I’m so grateful for her support and the lasting impact she’s had on my life.”

– Shayna May

“I am a family physician who sees patients with a myriad of eating concerns – from wanting to know how to plan healthy meals for active families, to weight loss, to eating disorders, and so on. I cannot recommend the Health Stand team highly enough. I have worked with (and been to!) other Dieticians in the past and too often find that they just ask for food logs and make suggestions that are easily obtained online or in books. The Dieticians at Health Stand offer much more than just telling clients what they “should be eating.” In contrast, the team really does more of a counselling practice, and they work hard to help their clients learn more about why their eating habits may be off track and not optimal for them, as well as helping people to effect change at a deep level that, most importantly, is sustainable for lifetime health.”

Dr. Deb Putnam, Family Physician

“It was life changing information. My dietitian identified nutrition problems from a physiological and psychological perspective and gave evidence-based solutions. She is also actively upgrading her knowledge to better understand the topic of nutrition. She is a great pick for somebody who is actively looking to change and improve their eating habits for a healthier life.”

– Jay See

“I could not be more pleased. As a first-time user of nutritional services with a Registered Dietitian, I was unsure what to expect. After reading many great reviews on my insurance provider’s site, I chose Health Stand Nutrition, who matched me with my dietitian based on my goals.

After just four sessions, I’m already seeing real progress toward my objectives and feeling better than I have in years. My dietitian’s calm, practical approach and expert advice have been essential to my success. I’ve learned a lot about nutrition and my own habits, and I now feel much more in control. I’m enjoying healthy foods that boost my energy and am making excellent progress toward my weight goals. We’re now focusing on long-term sustainability.

If you’re serious about improving your eating habits and overall health, I definitely recommend Health Stand!”

– Jim Downie

“My dietitian was very pleasant and easy to talk to. Being a 62 year old that in the last year has put on a few pounds, I made the decision to talk to a dietitian. Best thing I could have done. This is when I met my dietitian through health stand nutrition. She has taught me ways to deal with those after supper cravings, how it is very important to have carbs for brain health. I highly recommend speaking with my dietitian or someone else from Health Stand Nutrition with eating issues. I feel like I can now control my eating and even with a bad day I know I can get back on track. My dietitian has given me tools, I can’t thank you enough 💕”

⁃ Cheryl Johnson

“I cannot recommend my dietitian and the team at Health Stand Nutrition Consulting highly enough. Deciding to work with a dietitian was the best health decision I have made, and my dietitian truly exceeded all expectations.

Unlike generic programs or generalized dieticians, she took the time to deeply understand my lifestyle, health history, and, most importantly, my goals. The approach was incredibly personalized, focusing not just on my diet but on sustainable habits with food and my other health issues. There was never any restrictive or judgmental language, only thoughtful guidance.

Within 6 weeks, I saw tangible results, including improved energy, better sleep, and successful management of my overall health. I am confident in making food choices that support my long-term well-being.

My dietitian is an exceptional communicator, very patient, encouraging, and always thinking of new ways to help me. If you’re seeking an expert who offers true partnership and sustainable change, look no further. Thank you for changing my relationship with my health for the better!”

– Angie Babcock

“Some of the best money I’ve ever spent.

The intake interview matched me with an excellent fit. My dietitian was wonderful, met me where I was at, and provided excellent guidance and amazing support. So grateful to Health Stand Nutrition for their help.”

– Lauren Lautner

“My dietitian has helped me a great deal with not only changing the way I eat, but also how I look at food and dieting. She really helped to dismantle years of beliefs in diets, misinformation on food and nutrition, and the importance of self worth. She provided me with right information on food nutrition based off of research studies and her expertise. I have more freedom with eating now than I ever did, and I also eat more healthy than I ever did.

Best decision I made for myself and my health was to consult with a registered dietician, someone who has a degree in the field, rather than random diets I’ve come across the internet. My only regret was not doing this sooner and wasting time and money on fad diets that left me hungry and nutritionally depleted. I highly recommend Health Stand Nutrition. One of the best investments I’ve done for myself. Thanks to my dietitian for changing my relationship with food.”

– Michelle Maurage

“I worked with Health Stand Nutrition for support with IBS management and am so grateful that I did. My dietitian helped me to get a better understanding of how food can better support my digestion and also made it possible for me to re-incorporate many foods I love but had cut out in an effort to improve my symptoms. She also encouraged me to connect with other allied health professionals to get diagnostic clarity on other potential causes for my symptoms, giving me an additional layer of treatment (and relief) that had been overlooked by my physician. In addition to being knowledgable and kind, my dietitian went above and beyond in offering notes, evidence-supported resources, and helping me navigate a new diagnosis over the course of our work. I will absolutely reconnect if I need additional support in the future, and highly recommend connecting with Health Stand if you are trying to sort through lots of contradictory messaging about what will and will not help your digestive concerns.”

Bevan

“I am extremely excited to write a review for Health Stand and my dietitian (our Health Guru). From the Initial contact, to having the sessions with my dietitian, was quite seamless. My wife and I had five sessions and each built on to the previous one. I was amazed at how our dietitian could always detect a question coming and would always give a solid knowledgeable answer in return. She is very positive, upbeat, patient and easy to talk with. The follow up notes were a surprise to me after the first session, as I realized that her work in the session was only partially completed and she still had to bundle it all together for us to grasp the concepts.

The knowledge that we have gained is truly priceless and will be part of our living for the future. My only real regret is that I did not spend the money and do this years ago!! Highly… Highly recommend Health Stand Nutritional Consulting and my dietitian (or any of the Consultants), as this is truly a great company and equally good people.”

Andrew Lipinski

“When I first came to see my Dietitian, I was stuck inside my head and definitely feeling a post binge hangover. This was not an unusual feeling. The box inside my mind had some pretty stringent rules and a vision of the perfect me. It was a roller coaster ride of high’s and low’s. Eating “clean”, obsessing over ingredients to “slipping up” and demolishing whatever was in the pantry. My life depended on a good eating day or bad eating day. Throughout our sessions, my Dietitian helped me navigate through the voices to a place of self-compassion. A truly soulful way of not only eating but living. Today I have invaluable tools that will be there for the rest of my life.”

Sam K.

“My dietitian was knowledgeable and very accommodating to my needs. I had learned so much from our sessions. She took the time to listen to my concerns, understand my challenges, and provide actionable advice that felt achievable rather than overwhelming. Her knowledge and expertise are evident, but what truly impressed me was her supportive and encouraging approach.

I saw noticeable improvements in my energy levels, digestion, and overall health within weeks of implementing her recommendations. The meal ideas were delicious, and I never felt deprived or restricted.”

Mai Nguyen

“I’ve struggled with a lot of eating problems, misinformation, fad diets, expectations ect… my entire life, and for years I thought I could figure it all out on my own and got no where productive. But my dietician, was an angel. So knowledgeable and patient, kind, funny, relatable, understanding and encouraging. She has genuinely changed my life for the better. And if anyone is considering this business or these people I recommend them with my entire heart and soul. 10 stars. Thank you!”

– Devon Crewe

“We have used Health Stand at two different times for two different family members and they have been excellent. The online sessions are extremely convenient and their app keeps all the follow up notes in one place. Their advice is very practical and they encourage the inclusion of soulful foods, making it easy to follow and not feel too restricted. Highly recommend Health Stand for sound, scientific and practical advice! I also appreciated their flexible billing options and their receipts were accepted by our insurance.”

Hanna and Richard Janzen

“I highly recommend Health Stand Nutrition. First and foremost, my dietitian made me feel safe. She’s the first person to actually listen to what was going on, and not only provide amazing help and advice, she gave me empathy. I have Endometriosis, IBS and Fibromyalgia. She took care in providing help and relief in all areas. If you’re looking for help with nutrition for any reason, Health Stand Nutrition is where you need to go.”

– Veronica Sutherland

“My dietitian was fantastic at working with us on our family dietary needs. She balanced my fitness nutrition goals, my wife’s different nutrition goals, and our kids. It all worked into a menu plan that met all of our needs without making 4 meals every night. We generated with our dietitian’s help a 4-week rotating menu plan, standard grocery shopping lists, and freezer emergency options when we aren’t feeling like the menu plan that night. We’ve already noticed less time is spent thinking about what to make for dinner and just following the plan.”

– Austin Muir

“My dietitian truly helped me in more ways than I could’ve imagined. Food is always a hard topic that many people shy away from, including me. But my dietitian made me feel comfortable and extremely confident in what she taught me. I went from being unable to nourish my body due to medical complications and am now unrecognizable. She has taught me to listen to my body and to find what works best for me because, at the end of the day, everyone is different and has different needs. I could go on and on, but truly, my dietitian taught me to love myself just the way I am, and I will be forever grateful to her and all of the incredible people who work at Health Stand.”

– Elizabeth Morris

“My Dietitian did a great job of understanding the way I work and providing insightful comments for ways of rethinking food, preparation and planning. She was a great listener and extremely easy to open up to (very approachable). I really enjoyed how we managed to change habits, set a strong baseline with good food preparation and planning, and providing a different perspective on nutrition seemingly without trying. I now feel I have a great system in place that I can build from. I think I came in expecting to be told that in order to get to my goals, I should do x, y and z – and follow a, b and c meal plans or e.g. don’t eat after 9pm / stop eating bread etc. i.e. a more prescriptive approach. Instead what we did was to look at my relationship with food, using the way I think, and a few simple mindset changes – a hugely more effective process.” 

David Pickup

“My dietitian has been incredible to work with. From the beginning, she truly listened, not just to my goals, but to my concerns, challenges, and our needs as a family. She consistently brainstormed ideas and practical solutions with me, helping us find ways to make healthy eating feel sustainable and realistic rather than restrictive.

She shared thoughtful tips and strategies that fit into real life, and she helped me let go of a lot of negative, all-or-nothing thinking around food and diet culture. Her approach made healthy eating feel like a lifestyle, not a temporary plan.

She is warm, easy to talk to, and I always felt heard and supported. I’m so grateful for her guidance and would highly recommend her to anyone looking for compassionate, realistic, and positive nutrition support.”

– Nicole Bell

“Health Stand Nutrition helped me change my approach to food. Meeting with my dietitian for 4 sessions via Zoom was a welcome option as I recover and go through treatment for a medical condition. My dietitian was empathetic and very knowledgeable! She really listened and ensured she was understanding what I was saying.

She taught me how to eat consciously, and without guilt. I came away with a better understanding and plan to add more protein, approach food as nourishment and be kinder to myself. This was a huge revelation for me. Still a work in progress but overall I feel less restricted and happier.”

– M.I

“Both of my dietitians were absolutely fantastic and extremely knowledgeable of eating disorders and nutrition. I worked with one many years ago as I worked through very bad anorexia and am currently working with another for similar struggles.

This is a journey that is up and down and Health Stand has consistently been there for me.

My former dietitian is energetic, kind and knew when to challenge and encourage me, and my current dietitian is so compassionate, understanding and consistently supportive and knows when to both encourage and challenge my thoughts and beliefs.

I will forever be grateful for the support and guidance I have had and am currently getting at Health Stand.”

– Emma Mackintosh

“My dietitian was amazing to work with and learn from! She helped so much with learning different tactics and with my overall understanding of nutrition. Everyone was so easy to work with to set up appointments and reschedule when needed!”

– Devon Bishop

“I wanted to learn to eat without guilt, and fill my body’s needs, outside of diet culture. Their approach works for me. Thanks to my dietitian!”

– Lin

“I’ve been working with my dietitian since last July, and the impact on my nutrition and overall well-being has been significant. Through our online sessions, I’ve built sustainable habits and a much stronger foundation of knowledge around food and fueling my body.

I am healthier, more consistent, and more confident in my choices. While I still have more to learn, the changes so far have been truly transformational. I’m very grateful for my dietitian’s guidance and support.”

– Karey Reilly

“5-Star Customer Service Experience

I had such a wonderful experience with the intake team from the Health Stand Nutrition team! From the moment I reached out, she was incredibly friendly, responsive, and genuinely eager to help. Whether it was answering my questions, helping me navigate booking options, or making sure I was connected with the right dietitian, they made the entire process feel effortless.

She goes above and beyond in making sure you feel supported and heard. Even when I had a last-minute change, they handled it with such grace and kindness—it really stood out and made me feel valued as a client.

In a world where great customer service is rare, she is a true gem. Health Stand Nutrition is lucky to have her, and I’m so grateful for the positive and seamless experience she provided!”

Dhruvi Bhatt

“Juno House is a specialist therapy center, specializing in working with Adolescent girls and young women with anxiety-based issues, which include: eating disorders, self-harm, depression, and obsessive-compulsive behaviours.

We partner with the dieticians at Health Stand Nutrition for all of our Eating Disorder client families.  Jana Spindler has gone above and beyond the regular training as a dietician to immerse herself in the emotional world of eating disorders. She is trained in Emotional Focussed Family Therapy and uses it extensively in her work with our families. Jana has also taken the step of completing her Masters in Counselling to add an even deeper level to her work with girls and parents with an Eating Disorder in the family.

The Caregivers United group program will be invaluable for parents who are navigating an eating disorder with their child.  You will learn,  and be challenged to question what you might have understood about eating disorders, and you will be given tools to lean into the emotional world of your child to help them step out of the world of eating disorders.”

Lois Sapsford, MSW, RCSW, | Director at Juno House

“My dietitian is absolutely wonderful. So compassionate, she rides for you and is your cheerleader. She broke things down in a really digestible way, making the homework feel achievable and not overwhelming. I could go on to write a million other positive things about my experience and my dietitian herself,  but there isn’t enough time in the day. Thank you for absolutely everything. We’ll see each other again soon!”

– Jasmine’s Kristine

“I came some time ago for a few nutrition counseling sessions as my blood sugar was a bit high.  I am happy to report that my blood sugar is back to normal as I have made big changes in my choices and portion sizes.  I have lost about 20 lbs. in less than a year and while I still have a ways to go, I am doing well.  Thanks for all of your help!!  I’ll apprise if I think I need any “tune up” sessions with you down the road.”

Denis Gagne

“This is the first time I feel satisfied; my cravings have diminished dramatically, and I have a whole new relationship with food. I am eating guilt-free for the first time in my life. My energy has also dramatically increased and I feel great!”

Rhonda Jenkins

“Working with my dietitian has truly been life changing! My initial intent on signing up with Health Stand Nutrition was to get help losing weight. With my dietitian’s incredible wealth of knowledge, guidance and support, she has taken me on a journey that has transformed my unhealthy views and beliefs into healthy ones and to finally get off that rollercoaster of dieting. While it is a journey and a hard one, I am learning that self acceptance and love will nourish my body and mind and ultimately lead me to a healthy me. It is so devastating the damage that we do to our selves trying to fit an unrealistic mold that someone has arbitrarily decided is the right look. If you are looking to break away from that cycle, I highly recommend Health Stand Nutrition. Everyone that I have dealt with has been fantastic. I wish I could give 100 stars. An absolutely exceptional company!!”

Anne Marie Shutt

“Working with my dietitian has been literally life changing.

I came to Health Stand Nutrition Consulting with heavy anxiety related to blood sugar levels. The anxiety I had related to food became more and more overwhelming as I attempted to navigate nutrition on my own. Information online can be extremely overwhelming, not to mention the food documentaries.

The more I tried to navigate nutrition on my own, the more anxious I became. I was terribly confused to the point I was not able to eat at all. Eating progressively became more and more difficult as everything I was eating would contribute to my anxiety.

I booked four sessions with my dietitian. Where do I even begin.

Firstly, my dietitian is hugely compassionate. She listens well and cares – you can feel that care extended in the sessions. Aside from that, my dietitian is so incredibly knowledgeable in food science and helped me understand that nourishing my body should be an instinctual process. With each session, my confidence gradually grew more and she helped me reestablish my love and relationship with food by providing explanations in terms I could easily understand.

My dietitian is personable in that she encouraged me to eat what I like, including food from my South Asian culture. She taught me to follow my instincts and how to measure signs to look for should there be any reason for concern. She was instrumental in the process of getting me out of my head and back to the present. My dietitian also enthusiastically let me share each stage of my progression with her, cheering each victory on with me – that was amazing! She genuinely was happy I was getting better!

As of today my disordered eating is behind me and my relationship with food has been reestablished –  with greater understanding and confidence than I could ever imagine. I also have very detailed notes from our sessions I often review to reiterate the information she provided. I cannot say enough good things. This has been life changing for me and I can’t thank my dietitian enough. I truly can’t. Some are gifted at what they do, and I firmly stand by she is just that.

I will always be thankful, and should anything come up in the future, I definitely know where to reach out.”

– Aradna Gulati

“I highly recommend my dietitian at Health Stand Nutrition Consulting Inc. She is extremely knowledgeable and professional, and her approach to health feels genuinely holistic. She combines solid, evidence-based guidance with thoughtful emotional support, which made the whole experience both reassuring and empowering.

After each consultation, my dietitian provided clear and helpful follow-up notes that captured our conversation and included references to additional resources. These summaries made it much easier for me to study and put her advice into practice in a realistic and sustainable way.

There is a common misconception that nutritionists are “food police,” but that couldn’t be further from the truth here. my dietitian introduced a wide variety of healthy, enjoyable food options and offered practical guidance gently and without judgment when caution was needed. She works with you as a health partner, not a disciplinarian.

Even though her services were not covered by my insurance, I consider this money very well spent and a worthwhile investment in my long-term health.

I would also want to recognize my other dietitian, who provided the initial consultation when Angela was not immediately available. my other dietitian addressed and put to rest many concerns I had developed during my extensive research, particularly regarding protein and oxalates in relation to osteoporosis management. I left that meeting with a great sense of relief and reassurance.”

– B O

“The Dieticians at Health Stand Nutrition help you to take action on the science behind eating well by making it practical, understandable, and fun. Their office is cozy and not at all clinical or intimidating. I felt like I was sitting down with a really smart, caring friend who wanted to help me make the best choices for my lifestyle and food preferences. Andrea and her team really are the best in the business.”

Marty Avery

“I didn’t realize how strong my “diet mentality” was, and all the rules I had in my head about food. I was in a cycle of reward/punish/binge/cringe. I booked with your business very reluctantly, on the repeated advice of my doctor, to get my slowly rising cholesterol levels in check. I thought I knew everything about food, and my behaviour with food, but I was definitely re-schooled. My weight is creeping down, I feel good about my diet, exercise, body image, and lifestyle.”

Amy Floyd

“Exceptional experience with my Dietitian! I was overwhelmed with conflicting information about nutrition, but Paige took the time to explain everything clearly and simply. She created a personalized meal plan that fit perfectly with my lifestyle and dietary preferences. She helped me in choosing the food which is easily available in the stores I shop. Highly recommend for anyone looking to improve their diet with a knowledgeable and approachable expert.”

Hemendra Gusain

“I had 4 appointments with my dietitian at Health Stand Nutrition, and I had a really positive experience working with her. She was very easy to talk to, knowledgeable, and always brought such positive energy to every session.

My dietitian took the time to understand my personal health goals and gave me specific, practical advice and tips that I could actually apply in my daily life. She answered all of my questions thoroughly and made me feel comfortable throughout the process.

Thanks to her guidance and support, I feel like I achieved the goals I set for myself. I would highly recommend my dietitian to anyone looking for a supportive and professional dietitian and nutrition counsellor!”

“I found my Dietitian warm, funny, and skilled at teaching nutrition concepts without the overwhelm. The general approach of each session was to mix science with emotion, which was exceedingly effective in helping me shift my perspective on food from one of anxiety to one of joy and curiosity.”

Erin Kronstedt

“I just went through my annual check up and my cholesterol levels couldn’t be any better (both LDL and HDL). Diet, exercise, and above all, fiber intake did the trick for me. Thank you so much!”

Ray Wah

“I wish more Dieticians understood the complexity of people’s relationship to food like you all do! My Dietitian was incredibly responsive and felt more like a food therapist than a Dietician, which is exactly what I needed. My Dietitian pointed out food rules that I had disguised very well to myself as a preference such as not “liking” certain foods that I associated with weight gain. I learned that literally none of the food rules I had created for myself were based in any sort of legitimate science about food, but were all part of my anxiety around food and eating and unsuccessful attempts to control my body. My Dietitian understood right away that this was not about healthy eating for me or about issues with digestion (this is what I initially told her I needed help with). I am very well versed in “healthy” foods and “eating clean”… this was about seeing food as just food and my body as just a body, and taking away the power of both to influence how I feel about myself, something that was a daily (hourly) struggle for me for many years. With my Dietitians support, I came to understand that my digestive issues are a direct result of the anxiety I felt when I ate – I was ruminating about what I should and shouldn’t eat so much and feeling guilty if I ate too much or the “wrong” thing that I made myself physically unwell. I learned so much it is difficult to capture it all succinctly! It was all so helpful.”

Alix Gordon-Moran

“I’ve never been to a dietician before. What I received was far more advice and knowledge that I had initially expected. My Dietitian is extremely knowledgeable, excellent at communicating, and just plain fun to talk to. I’ve learned so much in just three appointments. I can actually feel the differences in my body after making the changes recommended to me. I’m far more aware of how to read my body’s reactions to certain foods. I have learned how to put together healthy delicious meals that aren’t repetitive. I don’t have to deprive myself of anything nor do I coerce myself into eating things I dislike. I’d rate this 6 stars instead of 5 stars on google reviews as my expectations were far over achieved! Thank you!”

Andre Perras

“I cook mostly whole foods and I watch very closely what I eat.  The problem was that there are things that I cannot have control over, such as social events, parties etc. I would often pre-eat, so I could skip the food being served, or I would opt to not eat at all, but then I would arrive home starving. And yet, with such a restricted, health focused diet, I could not seem to lose “the last 15 pounds”, something that I have struggled with my entire life. I measured my food, kept a food diary, weighed myself daily and every time I ate something it would affect my mood and I would then focus on exercise to mitigate the impact of the food I ate. I thought I was doing it right, yet all I thought about every day was food and the stress of uncontrollable situations became too much for me. That is when I reached out for help. I was very lucky to find Health Stand Nutrition – my Dietitian is absolutely awesome. I wasn’t sure what a Registered Dietician would do, but I figured they would simply help me figure out portion sizes and types based on my activities and perhaps they would identify how many times per week I could “food splurge” and still maintain or lose weight… and I’d be on my way. Instead, my Dietitian helped me realize that I had some (my husband would likely say many) obsessive ways, and bottom line: I was a dieter; even though I did not realize it. We talked about an approach called Intuitive Eating. This was a methodology where I would need to “lose the rules”; I could no longer write down my meals, count carbs or list portion size, or weigh myself. It seemed daunting at first but with my Dietitians support and guidance, it was manageable.  My Dietitian taught me how to eat intuitively. She promised that if I was open to this approach I could be free of my obsession with food and that one day I would eat when I am hungry and stop when I am full. She created a world where no food was off limits. She provided me with resources, assistance and support to help to learn to listen to my body. I really had no idea how my old ways were impacting my life; I had created a world that revolved around food and I felt like I was in prison. I dreaded meals at other people’s homes and meals out to restaurants, where food that I had always deemed off limits was served. So the concept of Intuitive Eating seemed scary. If I allowed myself all these thing I have worked so hard to eliminate I feared that I would binge. But I don’t binge. It surprised me. I learned to savour food and if I don’t love the first bite, I don’t have a second. No foods are off limits and I actually realized that I don’t love all sweets and dessert, I now only eat it if it will satisfy me. I have increased energy, less mood swings, my clothes still fit and are even getting looser (but this isn’t even important anymore) and in fact my overall stress level has been reduced. I let go of the control and others can cook dinner in our house and I am ok with it. I can go to client lunches and industry events without fear of what they are serving. And the surprise is that I eat less overall and I am not hungry. There are easy days and there are a few hard days. But even a hard day Intuitive Eating is easier than a hard day dieting… because it’s ok to eat on the run, have full fat cheesecake or drink that glass of wine. No more unsatisfying “diet” substitutes. No longer depriving myself of food I like. All of this means I have less cravings and I eat less because I know I can have it again. I know that not eating “perfectly”  is perfect and food will no longer impact my mood or affect my end goal, which is to be healthy. A huge weight has been lifted and I am so much happier. I can honestly say I will never diet again- what a freeing statement! I really can’t say enough amazing things about my Dietitian and what she did for me and for my family who have also benefited from the Intuitive Eating approach taught by Health Stand Nutrition.”

Jennifer Desilets

“Health Stand Nutrition helped me change my fundamental approach to food. My Dietitian was warm, empathetic, and very knowledgeable. She taught me how to eat consciously, and without guilt. This was incredibly helpful because I had never thought in that way before. I learned sustainable strategies for shopping, cooking, and eating that I have incorporated into my life. It was definitely money well spent for me. The coaching was inspiring, action-oriented, and non-judgmental, and it made a sustained impact on me, even years later.”

Bruce Sellery, Business Journalist, Television News Anchor and Personal Finance Coach 

“Prior to visiting my Dietitian, I had adopted an extremely low carb diet in order to lose 50 lbs, and while that diet worked for me I knew that a low carb diet was unsustainable.  So I wanted to get advice on a balanced diet that would give me the nutrition I needed without putting the weight back on.  Although I am fairly savvy when it comes to diet and nutrition, I found my Dietitian to be extremely supportive, motivational, and knowledgeable.  The 3 sessions were very worthwhile and I still refer to them on a regular basis.  The fact is that 7 months after losing all that weight I have only put on 5 lbs, thanks to a sensible balanced diet and the motivation that my Dietitian instilled in me. I also had BPH (prostate enlargement).  My Dietitian did some research for me on what foods to take, and what to avoid.  7 months later, the BPH is totally gone, which just shows that many ailments can be treated by diet. Whether you are looking to lose weight, keep the weight off, or get your health sorted, you will find a friend in Health Stand Nutrition.”

P.H.

“Our stable family home was rocked to the core when our daughter was diagnosed with an eating disorder. How could something like this happen to our joyful, funny, generous girl? Feelings of terror and helplessness washed over us daily. Grappling with the enormity of our daughter’s struggles and how we could help her was daunting. A friend had recommended Health Stand to us as they had helped her when she struggled with an eating disorder. Our Dietitian immediately made a connection with our daughter. Her kind and understanding way instantly built trust in all of us. Our Dietitian instinctively knew how to encourage our daughter, asking meaningful questions and providing helpful ideas on navigating the day-to-day struggles of simply eating. With our Dietitian’s support, we could see a path out of disordered eating. Her guidance gave us, as parents, a role in how we could effectively help our daughter. With her encouragement, we were empowered and no longer felt helpless and alone. Thanks to our Dietitian’s help, our daughter made excellent gains back to health. As she recovered weight, she was determined to put disordered eating behind her and seek therapy to address the root of her mental health issues. Our daughter fought hard in her recovery, and we credit a large part of that to our Dietitian. She inspired a will to get better in our daughter, and for that, we will always be grateful. Now our daughter is in her first year of university at the University of Victoria. She is a typical first-year university student navigating her way through the ups and downs of school. The food menu in residence is interesting, but our daughter consistently finds food she likes and navigates the menu with no issues. Although living through an eating disorder was hell, we would say that it made our daughter reflect on her challenges and helped her see that life can be difficult, but with honesty and the help of others, she can get through it ok.”

Sam B.

“As a busy mom working full time and feeding a growing family, I’m so glad I reached out to a Registered Dietitian at Health Stand. I was feeling overwhelmed by all the conflicting nutrition advice and wanted support with some health concerns. After a few sessions, I gained practical tips, helpful strategies, and a lot more confidence in the kitchen especially with feeding my teenage boys. The guidance was personalized, supportive, and never judgmental. I highly recommend Health Stand to anyone looking for practical, realistic nutrition advice!”

– Alee

“I have used HealthStand on 2 separate occasions for help with my diet and they are incredible. This time I saw my dietitan and she was wonderful. I worked through a lot with her and she was so helpful”

Kate Ukrainetz

“Has been great working with my dietitian. Very informative and helpful.”

Jason

“I came to Health Stand Nutrition at the advice of my psychologist. I was diagnosed with anxiety and tried many different avenues to get my mental health better, but nothing was working. I was malnourished and had been my entire life (age 37). My Dietitian took the time to explain things to me and help me understand just how important food is. Not only for nourishment, but how important it is to enjoy (and how fun and creative food can be). She understood all my concerns, she was very easy to talk to, and provided so many helpful tips. My mental health has done a complete 180 and I honestly can’t believe how much better I am feeling, simply because of proper nutrition and eating habits.”

Lee-Ann Wells

“I am so grateful for the onsite executive coaching of Health Stand Nutrition Consulting Inc. that our company, Walton Global Investments Ltd., decided to provide to the executives. Of course, I have always known that healthy eating is essential for overall long term health, but it has been with your instructions that I have committed myself to proper nutrition – and it’s working! As a result of these sessions, I am more productive, have more energy at work, and have learned not only what to eat, why and when, but also easy strategies to keep it up. My commitment to long term health has never been better or more fun. Thanks for sharing your expertise and putting me on the path to a healthy life.”

Leslie Fryers, Q.C., ICD.D, Executive Vice President Law, Walton Global Investments Ltd.

“Working with Health Stand Nutrition has been amazing! Their staff is incredibly knowledgeable and provides advice based on “wants” and not just “needs”. I highly recommend Health Stand Nutrition to anyone looking for a healthier lifestyle without sacrificing lifestyle.”

David Hensch

“By giving me a safe place to talk and examine what was or was not working in my life I came to see the opportunity to reduce controllable stress producing behavior which was impacting my body. Generally, I was amazed at the poise and understanding that my Dietitian provided in my sessions. She was empathetic and supportive of positive changes that I made, and understanding of those I didn’t make.”

Beatrice Wilhelm

“I love food. It stimulates each of the senses, keeps us energized toward our goals, yet, I’ve had a rollercoaster relationship with food that was largely based on fear and avoidance. That was until I received some spot-on nutrition education from a Registered Dietitian at Health Stand Nutrition. Working with my Dietitian to address a long-winded battle with anorexia nervosa has been inspiring and empowering. From a restrictive and rule-ridden approach to eating, I’ve developed a healthy and sustainable approach to meals and snacks that supports my goals to travel in the future. I peeled off labels that I thought would never unstick and allowed myself to explore economic, time-saving, and delicious recipes that work for me. If something didn’t’ work, there was space to learn from it, and continuous email feedback helped me stay accountable. I feel grateful for this ongoing support and keen to take on new challenges in my life. The program allowed me to take challenges at my own pace with the guidance of understanding and down to earth professional support.”

C.B.

“I’ve worked with the Health Stand Nutrition team for several years. I’m continuously impressed by the team’s knowledge of health and nutrition and their use of practical strategies to educate and help people live a healthier life. I deeply admire their dedication and commitment to helping individuals with serious health issues who need 1:1 support to make changes. I confidently recommend the services and knowledge of the Health Stand Nutrition team to help both individuals and organizations achieve a healthier, happier lifestyle.”

Catherine Russell

“My Dietitian has been such a positive influence in my eating disorder recovery. I have been able to incorporate grains, soulful foods (like ice cream) and enjoy a glass of wine once in a while. I am able to not go overboard and really tune in to my feelings and check in with myself. I’m setting boundaries for myself and trying to handle those situations by laughing and I find having a better diet is helping me be happier and have more energy and a clear mind. My Dietitian is so genuine, realistic, helpful and honest. I appreciate that she is so down to earth and really just amazing on how supportive and flexible she has been to my needs.”

R.B.

“We went to see a Sports Nutritionist at Health Stand Nutrition to find out how to deal with the near fainting spells my teenage daughter was experiencing during exercise. My daughter learned to take control of her own nutrition needs. As she is very athletic and active she needed to learn to combine enough nutrition and sustenance for her snacks before, during and after sports. Our Nutritionist really engaged my daughter, asked her questions, gave her the information and put her in charge of helping with food preparation, being responsible for making sure the correct ingredients are purchased on time and getting her to self-monitor how she feels each time she makes a change to her diet. I thought that was a wonderful approach, it helped us out a lot and it totally inspired my daughter to live a healthy life style and work towards fitness goals. Thank you very much!”

Monika Salkauska

“I spent three hours with my Dietitian when first diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. I learned more from her about food in those 3 hours than I had learned in all the years of my life. I love the newsletter, there is always something to learn.”

Peter Whitehead

“It was nice to meet with someone that has knowledge about Diabetes and Celiac Disease. What my Dietitian did for me was bring some products to my attention and get me motivated again to make the changes I need to make so that I can feel better again. I enjoyed my sessions with my Dietitian a lot and really appreciate the knowledge she has and the help she gave me to look at things in a more healthy way. She also made me realize that meals don’t need to be complicated and difficult, it really can be fast and easy. Thanks so much for her help.”

Lorie H.

“My dietitian has been amazing to work with. She truly understands what it’s like to have an ADHD brain and the diet struggles it comes with. I plan to book more sessions to continue working on this and couldn’t be happier with her support.”

Lisa Kedian.

“I had four lovely meetings with my dietitian. She was very knowledgable, helpful and her expertise really shone through.”

Lois McCormack

“I was on your webinar with you several months ago. If anything you’ve given me at least a mindset I can follow. It’s nice to hear that I don’t have to give everything up, and since then I’ve been trying harder than I’ve ever had, and I still have things when I want them, but I don’t do the whole cheat day thing, I think that throws a lot of people off. I’d rather just have a bit of something when I want it. I just hit 40 lbs gone, and am looking forward to the next 40. I’m still not perfect in how I eat, and I don’t think I can be, but what I’m doing seems to be working. And I still get my chocolate too…lol…I just try to have it a little at a time. Thanks for changing my mind.”

Read Glenn’s full story here
Glenn DuHart

“My Dietititan is amazing at her job and she truly cares about her clients. When I was doing terribly with my eating disorder and pregnant, she cared enough to follow up with my doctor. I don’t know what things would be like today if she hadn’t done that but I can’t thank her enough! She has helped me so much in developing habits and routines that help me to stay on track with my eating disorder recovery and stay motivated. She was also helpful in communicating with my husband the habits and routines that are helpful in order to stay on the path to recovery. She is easy to be open and honest with. Non-judgmental but also challenges me with eating disorder behaviours and beliefs that I hold on to.”

Lindsay F.

“I reached out after noticing how good my co-worker was looking and she told me about Health Stand Nutrition. I had quit smoking about 8 months prior and was noticing the scale going up and up. I was exercising and staying active and tracking calories, but the more I was keeping track of calories the more frustrated I became and more often than not I was over my daily limit and then would get upset…pig-out and double my daily limit. My Dietitian told me was quit counting calories and if you want a brownie, have the brownie (just be conscious about your decision). I always looked forward to our next sessions as we followed up on previous personal goals and set new ones. She offered advice, recipes, tips and tricks and every time I saw her was another “aha” moment that freed me more. Today, I am conscious about what I eat and drink, I eat balanced meals and never deprive myself. I feel great, I have more energy, and feel stronger. Oh and guess what….the scale has stopped going up. I highly recommend Health Stand for everyone! Even if you think you know it all…I can promise you, you don’t. I would like to send a huge thank you, I’ve never felt better!”

Josie Ballard

“My Dietitian was outstanding for her supportive guidance. At first it all seemed too easy – I could eat anything I want as long as I am responsible? Crazy. It took me a while to trust her ideas until I realized that ultimately it was up to me to get healthy – with her expert guidance. I now focus on enjoying tasty healthy food, committing to exercise, and not focusing on the scale. And the results? Never felt better, eat much more interesting and tasty food (thanks Mediterranean diet) and people tell me it looks like I have lost weight. Feels like it but I’m not checking. Don’t need to. Just loving this healthy feeling.”

Dennis Garnham, Artistic Director, The Grand Theatre

“Health Stand Nutrition counselled my whole family a couple years ago, and we still follow the easy 1-2-3 guidelines to eating healthy. They make eating healthy easy, and understands how to be realistic, practical and forgiving of not being perfect!”

Jacqueline Drew, CEO Tenato Strategy Inc.

“After being on a restrictive diet, I started to binge eat frequently and struggled to get back on track. My Dietitian was very kind, helpful and created a safe environment for me to share. She explained the science behind it and helped me get to intuitive eating. My weight fluctuated 20 lbs over a year, and for the past year and a half it has remained the same. Having worked on this, I have been doing great at my career and feel more wholesome and happy! I highly recommend Health Stand Nutrition for help.”

S.F.

“I’ve been working with them for the last 18 months. From my first virtual visit to set up my program to now, service has been professional and welcoming. I’ve been working via zoom with my dietitian 1:1 and it has been incredibly helpful. She has been informative, provided many excellent resources and is evidence based in her approach. Each session was geared to where I was at a the moment, and each ended with action steps that we identified together that best met my needs. If you are looking for dietitian support to help create a healthier relationship with food, I can highly recommend them.”

– Carla Gibson

“My Dietitian is so non-judgemental and great at listening. She works hard to teach me things and think outside the box in terms of ongoing challenges in negative situations related to my eating disorder recovery. I am always super motivated after my appointments. I am making really positive changes in my lifestyle that are making a big difference.”

Rachel K.

“Andrea has a longstanding, solid reputation with colleagues and clients because of her creative, compassionate, “let’s do it” approach to life and work. Her information is credible, evidence-based and better yet, presented in a way that sticks. I’ve referred clients to her practice for over ten years, knowing their personal struggles and questions will be greeted with zero judgement. Rather, Andrea understands that everyone’s relationship with food can sometimes be distressing or frustrating, and she welcomes a chance to explore solutions that are practical and joyful.”

Dr. Colleen Cannon, Clinical Psychologist, Co-founder Craving Change Inc.

“I now understand the requirements my body needs for my athletic goals / lifestyle and understand how to achieve these requirements.”

John B.

“I’m happy to report that I bought new pants that were 4 pants sizes smaller. I still wear my belt, but more for looks, as much as it is to hold up my pants. I wanted to thank you for the things that you taught me, I’ve implemented many things on a daily basis and continue to do them.”

Jane Weston

“My overall experience with Healthstand has been phenomenal! Right from the beginning, I felt like I was at the right place to make real changes in my life that matter and will eventually lead to a sustainable healthy lifestyle. The intake coordinator, was friendly and professional. She took the time to help me understand the process and ensure that the program I selected was the best fit for my needs. She made time over her own conflicting priorities to ensure that I felt supported right from the start and answered all my questions. She connected me with my dietitian. My sessions with my dietitian were insightful and amazing. She partnered with me right off the bat on this journey and became my sounding board as well as my coach to ensure that the choices I made fit my goals and were value add to my lifestyle. She encouraged me to bring my best while being empathetic to the multitude of responsibilities I was juggling in my life. The staff at Healthstand are amazing people who want you to succeed. They don’t just support you for the sessions you sign up for but are very much available to be your long term support if you ever need it. Thank you Healthstand for everything you have done for me.”

– Nidhi Manohar

“My Dietitian was supportive and comforting, funny and knowledgeable. Throughout our assessment, we discussed portion sizes, what constitutes a healthy meal and snack, caloric intake and energy levels. She gave me tips about integrating regular snacks into my meal plan and a slick tracking tool to record them as well as to manage changes I am making to my diet. I felt we were in partnership regarding my health and wellness and we came up with a plan which is reasonable, sustainable and tailor-made for me. If you are looking for a Registered Dietician to help move you forward on your path to wellness, I would highly recommend Health Stand Nutrition.”

Colleen Biondi

“I went to Health Stand Nutrition for help to gain weight. I ate meals but could not gain weight. My Dietitian listened to my concerns and understood my problem. She made me feel at ease and I felt that she was interested in my concerns and could help me. She gave me a meal planning package to help build balanced meals and healthy snacks. She wrote out suggestions so I had notes to refer to when I returned home. I was especially pleased when she gave me recipes to get me started on my road to healthy eating. I also enjoyed my sessions. We chatted and had a few laughs. My Dietitian knows about nutrition and understands people. I would highly recommend Health Stand Nutrition to anyone needing help in planning and eating nutritional meals.”

Diane Harris

“I originally went to see my Dietitian with a desire to gain control of a binging problem. I have always been an all or none eater. A “good day” consisted of only healthy eating. No sugar, no treats, and very few carbs. If I “broke down” and had one cookie it then became a “bad day” and the eating was out of control and my whole day was bad. As a result I tried every diet and fad to lose weight. But the only thing I gained was even worse eating habits and more binging. Food consumed my mind and I found it hard to enjoy meal times. My Dietitian taught me how to not “diet” but eat the right amounts of a variety of food to feel full and satisfied. And most important she taught me that the grey area is OK. It’s okay to have a treat without guilt. I now have my bingeing under control and eat the right amounts of food to give me the energy I need. And I have a “treat” every day – in control – knowing that there’s always tomorrow to have it again. And for the first time in my life I am not totally consumed with what I’m eating. I can actually enjoy going out for dinner and preparing meals! I also feel confident I am teaching my daughters a healthy balance about food and eating. Thanks!”

Alanna

“I signed up for a registered dietician and requested one due to her previous rave reviews and I was not disappointed at all. My dietitian is very knowledgeable and provided me with a ton of useful information based on what I told her I was looking for. I had 4 sessions with her, which she was able to accommodate my schedule and each session was filled with info that created so much awareness for me. I have been able to come up with plans to help me achieve my goal. My dietitian is great about taking notes and sharing links post session which you can refer to, as a guide. She follows up on any action items that were discussed. She is very approachable and easy to talk to and never makes you feel bad for some goals that you were not able to achieve. She always puts a positive light on things and comes up with plans discussing with me, that are sustainable in the long run and not something that provides quick results. I am very happy with the sessions I’ve had with her and have left the sessions more knowledgeable and aware than I was before I started these sessions. A huge thank you to my dietitian! I would highly recommend her as your RD, if you are looking for one.”

– D S

“I have had a fantastic experience with my dietitian from Health Stand. I did 10 sessions and each one was very informative and helpful. My dietitian took the time to get to know me and quickly was able to make me feel comfortable sharing with her. Her methods really matched my personality which made the process go so smoothly as I was able to understand and integrate the strategies and information she was sharing with me. I appreciated how caring and practical she was and always felt supported and understood. While I was supplied with many resources and “homework” to review and complete, it never felt overwhelming or like busy work. All resources were highly applicable and actively functioned to help me attain the goals and level of understanding I was seeking. I would highly recommend Health Stand and my dietitian to anyone willing and wanting to understand nutrition and their relationship with food on a better level.”

Sadie Dumba

“Thanks to my Sports Nutritionists awesome advice on what to eat before and after workouts, I find that I always have the energy to continue on with my day, even after a very hard swim or a difficult day in the weight room. I have even noticed a difference in my competitive swimming as I now have more focus and more determination, which I’m sure is a result of the advice that my Nutritionist gave me. The plans are great because they incorporate small changes that seem to make huge differences in my day.  I loved her healthy alternatives to a few of the foods that I like. I also loved the recipes she gave me! Thank you again for all your help.”

Carla

“I went to see my Dietitian almost a year ago now with a cholesterol problem. After analyzing my current diet and changes that I already made, she was able to present a multitude of further choices that would help even further. One of the best things in the changes to my diet that I appreciated was that I was able to continue to eat a lot of the foods I like. I only had to change some of the preparation methods and quantity. With the changes we made to my diet as well as exercise, I was able to reduce my cholesterol by over one unit in only 3 months. My Dietitian is very positive minded, and helps you focus on what needs to be done to achieve your goal. At the same time you feel committed, not pressured, to do what it takes. Thank you very much.”

Bjorn

“It was life changing information. My dietitian identified nutrition problems from a physiological and psychological perspective and gave evidence-based solutions. She is also actively upgrading her knowledge to better understand the topic of nutrition. She is a great pick for somebody who is actively looking to change and improve their eating habits for a healthier life.”

– Jay See

“When I found that my weight gain was beginning to interfere with my lifestyle, I decided that it was time to engage some professional assistance. From the day that I first met my Dietitian, her bouncy enthusiasm for her work was infectious. She is a very knowledgeable professional who brings a down home approach to her advice. She works with her clients in a manner that best suits their needs. My Dietitian and I agreed on a reasonable objective and then developed a strategy to achieve it. The objective was to lose weight at a reasonable pace until I had the overweight problem under control. The strategy was for me to develop a better understanding of the nutritional value of various foods and how they worked together in the human body to aid in healthy living. We mixed the nutritional discussion with other lifestyle commentary which enabled me to put the whole issue in context. One thing that I felt was very important from the beginning was to have fun doing it and not to lose energy as a result of lowering my caloric intake, as I exercise regularly as well. In fact, eating smarter increased my energy level. My Dietitian had many helpful hints in day to day living which enabled me to make the “dieting” aspect of the strategy very manageable. The simplest piece of advice that my Dietitian gave me was that there wasn’t anything that I couldn’t eat while on the program as long as I understood what I was eating and the impact it would have on my progress. A simple, initial target to lose 5 -10 pounds turned into an updated goal of losing 30 pounds. When that was achieved over six months, without ever feeling hungry, I decided to go for 40 pounds, which is where I was many, many years ago. Having achieved that milestone, my Dietitian and I are now working on a strategy to stabilize my weight loss and to ensure that the eating habit improvements achieved are embedded into my normal routine. I recommend Health Stand Nutrition very highly to anyone who would like to better understand the value of the food they are consuming and to learn some helpful, customized hints to improve their eating habits in a healthy, user friendly, way.”

John Watson

“I was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure and wanted to get helpful advice to get me eating better and on the right track as soon as possible.  My wife found Health Stand and we gave them a call. They had me matched up with a nutritionist right away.  My nutritionist was wonderful, extremely helpful and very encouraging.  I feel I’m on the right path now to keeping my blood sugar and pressure under control and can maintain this way of eating without feeling like I’m losing out. Also, fantastic people on the office side of things too who took my info, got me setup with the nutritionist and got my invoice updated after every appointment so it could be submitted for reimbursement.  All around positive experience and would recommend Health Stand to friends and family.”

Matt Springer 

“My dietitian at Health Stand has been an incredible support for me over the past year. I signed up for the 18-session package because I have multiple food sensitivities, and understanding what I could eat let alone finding recipes that worked was a real challenge.

What I appreciated most was how genuine and compassionate her support was. Our sessions did not always follow a strict preplanned structure, and I truly valued that. She met me where I was at each time. My dietitian offered thoughtful suggestions, plenty of recipes, and steady encouragement to keep trying, even when many recipes still needed some adjustments to fit my sensitivities.

Before contacting Health Stand, I had worked with two other nutritionists both of them using ChatGPT, not the kind of support I was looking for. When I came here, I had a choice between two practitioners, and I very clearly chose the best one for me. My dietitian’s care, patience, and flexibility made a real difference, especially during the sessions where I rambled and needed space to process what I was going through.

Thank you for all of your support. I would absolutely recommend Health Stand to anyone looking for compassionate and personalized nutritional support.”

– Duane Marran

“I just wanted to share with you the measurable changes that have occurred in my health/life since our first meeting about three and a half months ago. My total cholesterol has dropped from 5.8 to 4.6, and my doctor tells me to expect a further substantial reduction over the next year or so. My weight has dropped approximately 13 lbs. so far. I find that I need about one to one and a half hours less sleep per night than I needed before, to have the same energy the next day. Lastly, my digestion improved. There was nothing wrong with it before, but now it is turbocharged! This is all pretty exciting stuff for me, and I attribute it 100% to the program that you laid out for me. I will continue to mention you to people who might benefit from the same thing you did for me.”

Pat

“My Dietitian has been very helpful with some blood sugar difficulties that I have been dealing with for years. She taught me how to eat in a way that keeps me full and ensures that my energy levels are high. Feeling light headed due to low blood sugar levels has been a consistent problem for me, probably since adolescence. I seldom experience this now, and if I do, I am now aware of what specific types of food to eat that are beneficial to me. I feel much healthier and through a combination of eating the proper foods, spacing meals and snacks appropriately and daily exercise I have lost 15 pounds – an added bonus I was not expecting. I have gone from being very close to having diabetes 6 months ago, to having current blood sugar levels that are normal. I am so pleased with the way my Dietitians advice has helped me create a healthier lifestyle.”

Barbara

“I originally came to see my Sports Nutritionist looking for assistance in attaining some very specific goals that I have struggled to achieve for more than 10 years, even with the assistance of other ‘nutritional professionals.’ I play professional lacrosse for the Calgary Roughnecks, and as a professional athlete I have found that the physical demands of my sport call for a very scientific approach to nutrition coupled with expert knowledge of sport-specific training routines. This truth combined with the natural hurdles of my vegetarian diet (I’ve been a vegetarian for over 15 years), have made my goals of weight-gain (and maintenance) very challenging. It was not until I begin nutritional sessions with my Sports Nutritionist that my objective of adding positive pounds (size and strength) in the amount of 15-20 lbs was realized. Moreover, I was able to achieve my goals in a much shorter time-span than I originally thought possible. Thanks to my Nutritionist, and her professional, sport-specific advice, I have achieved my weight-gain objectives, which has in turn greatly enhanced my game – all without compromising my dietary restrictions.”

John Kilbride, professional lacrosse athlete, Calgary Roughnecks 

“I readily admit that as it related to the ED, I couldn’t understand the value of a dietician when our therapist first suggested it. Our daughter was already seeing a therapist weekly and knew ALOT about food, nutrition, and healthy eating habits (yes, we understand the irony). I couldn’t have been more wrong.
One of our biggest challenges was the emotional disconnect that had become obvious with the ED and was steadily and rapidly getting worse. Our daughter was depressed, angry, withdrawn; she felt unreachable no matter what we tried. Having our Dietitian meant that we could step back from ensuring my daughter was eating enough calories to survive and focusing on making sure she wasn’t getting sicker, and focus on supporting, encouraging, and validating her needs and experience. I cannot express this enough: THIS WAS LIFE CHANGING.

We couldn’t make any progress related to food AT ALL, but she would see our Dietitian and return home ready to face whatever challenge they had agreed to. Even if the challenge felt impossible, their agreement meant that I was there to comfort and support, not plan and manage – this made a massive difference in our relationship and put a stop to the power struggles over food. I have NO DOUBT that her recovery went MUCH quicker and our relationship is actually stronger now primarily due to having our Dietitian as part of our recovery team.

Our Dietitian also provided our daughter with another neutral third party that she could talk to, someone young enough to connect with and who isn’t her parent. She could say things to our Dietitian and be understood without having to overexplain or worry about hurting feelings. Our Dietitian has this ability to meet a teen where they’re at, speak to them on their level without talking down to them or being clinical. She made our daughter feel heard and powerful enough to overcome this loud voice that was tormenting her. My daughter would enter angry and sick and would emerge calmer and more secure; those good feelings were fleeting at first, but over time they lasted longer and longer.

Another huge benefit was that we could trust that the progress she was making with the Dietitian was ‘enough’, so we could stop obsessing over her food intake and focus on our daughter. If you have a child with an ED, you understand the crushing weight created by the worry and uncertainty. Also, having someone with ED experience meant that we could turn to her when we had questions about my daughter’s progress and healing and what next steps would/should/could look like. This was incredibly valuable because as you walk through recovery with your child it can feel like you’re in a forest at night without directions -lost, helpless, fearful, panicked. Our Dietitian has the map and the flashlight.

She also ‘held our hands’ as we learned how to sit with our daughter as she tried new challenges. She provided multiple resources and strategies that we used to help my daughter – we were fearful of pushing her too hard that she’d shut down, and also fearful of not holding the line and letting the ED gain traction; without our Dietitian it would have been incredibly difficult for us to know what to do. She was such a steadying and encouraging force whenever we had questions or we had a difficult experience, and a wonderful cheerleader when things went well.

There is absolutely no question that our Dietitian was absolutely invaluable to us.”

Caylie V.

“I knew when I signed up for Ironman Canada, that I would need to ensure my nutrition was going to support the demands of an endurance training plan. I came to see a Sports Nutritionist and the information she provided to me was exactly what I needed. I came away with a formula to calculate precisely the amounts of carbohydrates and protein I needed as well as a new awareness of how to best restock my body’s fuel reserves and when to do so after working out. The information was invaluable to me for a successful training season and allowed me to fulfill all the training sets I needed to do, and have the energy to do every last one of them! I was confident about my food plan, which was absolutely integral to my successful year and competition. I never once felt that I had to compromise being a vegetarian as I knew exactly what my parameters were and how to best achieve optimal nutritional health.”

Debbie

“I met with a Sports Nutritionist at Health Stand Nutrition to discuss my personal goals, which were to increase my energy levels and muscle mass. She did a fantastic job at individually assessing my needs and offered numerous food choices that were catered for me. Since my visit, I have noticed an incredible change, I am feeling a lot stronger during my workouts, and my energy levels are higher then ever! I would without a doubt recommend Health Stand Nutrition to any individual looking to improve their lifestyle, no matter what fitness level or goal they have!”

Jeff Lindstrom

“I am very active and involved in competitive sports but my eating habits were a total disaster. My portion sizes were too large, my meals were not balanced and I was always hungry. I went to see a Dietitian at Health Stand Nutrition so she could help me in terms of eating properly and maybe guide me to losing all my extra pounds. And did she ever. She explained to me what I was doing wrong and why and what would be the right things to do. Her explanations, diagrams, charts, and recipes made sense to someone who had never really paid too much attention to their diet. I have lost over 20 lbs just by eating properly and continuing to exercise regularly. She bestowed me with confidence and made it all seem so easy, which I now realize it is. I feel great, have a tremendous amount of energy and fit into my jeans at the back of the closet again.”

Vanessa

“Since meeting with my Sports Dietitian I feel that I have a better understanding of the nutritional needs for my body. I am a 19 year old competitive short track speed skater. This past season I had a lot of trouble with sickness and low energy. I thought I ate well, trained hard and recovered well enough to maintain my busy lifestyle and athletic performance. I tried many things to regain my energy; I rested more and even compromised training programs. I have always tried to eat “healthy.” To me healthy meant fewer treats and a restrictive lifestyle. After meeting with my Sports Nutritionist I discovered that my thinking was wrong. As an athlete my energy needs are high. She has taught me how to balance my eating in order to maintain my desired performance. My energy level has increased significantly. I have learned that being healthy does not have to be restrictive and complicated. She has helped me gain a greater understanding of nutrition, so that I can apply it to my lifestyle in practical ways. I really appreciated her wisdom, understanding and enthusiasm.”

Kylee

“When I became pregnant I was concerned that my vegetarian diet may affect my growing baby. As a result, my doctor recommended that I see a Nutritionist. Visiting my Nutritionist was a great move because I learned that while my diet was basically good, there were many ways to improve upon it. I had to pay particular attention to my daily intake of protein, iron and calcium. It was a little challenging at first, as I had never been used to consciously planning my meals. However, I now had more than just myself to think about and so I was determined to do things right. I was grateful for all the handouts I was given and the many menu suggestions. I have never been much of a cook and have little imagination in that dept. I was therefore pleased that the suggestions were often very easy to prepare, though not necessarily obvious to the nutritionally-challenged! I also received great information on baby nutrition, something I have just started re-reading as our daughter is now 6 months old. Between us we’ve built a very healthy, bouncing baby.”

Peta

“Why is it that we wait until something goes wrong before we take action to ensure our body gets the proper nutrition it needs to stay healthy. I made it all the way to age 53 before my balloon popped. I’d always thought I was eating properly, boozing socially and often congratulated myself that I didn’t smoke. My problems were cholesterol related and became evident at my annual medical examination. My Doctor was shocked when he passed me the results of my blood work. He gave me six months to get my ducks back in order and a requisition to repeat the blood work by year end. If I could not normal my cholesterol level I was going on the pill. I hate pills! I then met with a Dietitian from Health Stand Nutrition. In six months and three short meetings my Dietitian passed her nutrition experience to me. I followed her plan and made some lifestyle changes. Together we shocked my Doctor again! This time a positive shock. Will I be staying with the plan? You bet….. Thanks. You do great work. Yours now with: Normal Cholesterol.”

Charlie

“It has been nearly 2 years now since my struggles with anorexia first began. At my lowest, I weighed just barely more than 37 kg (82 lbs.). I had lost hope that recovery was ever possible and at points was ready to simply give up. I find it difficult to explain exactly what anorexia does to a person, but it was a constant tormentor and I suffered immensely. My Dietitian has been working with me for over a year now and with her help I have come a long way. She encouraged me to continuously seek help and honestly gave me the hope that I could get through this. Together, we worked on increasing my meal plans and adding in new foods, since my list of ‘safe’ foods had gotten smaller and smaller with time. Gradually, my list grew more and more, and with it, so did my confidence. There has been a dramatic shift in my eating patterns. I went from barely eating anything in a day to now eating 3 meals and 2 snacks each and every day. For the first time in over two years I feel ‘normal’. I am pleased to say that I have gained back all the weight that I lost and even a bit more to ensure I remain healthy at nearly 100 lbs. I can’t say that I’m 100% cured, because recovery from an eating disorder is a long and trying process. But, what I can say is that I have made many changes to my life and my hopes for the future have returned. I decided to write this letter because I truly believe that if my Dietitian could help me, she can help anyone. I can imagine that at times I must have been an extremely difficult client, but she never gave up on me. And because of her, I am here to tell you all my story of success.”

J.B.

“Working with my Dietitian has had significant impact on my health and quality of life. She motivates one to make important health changes through helping you set achievable goals, one at a time. This process allows a person to make life changes not just temporary fixes. For example, it’s taken time to lose 6 lbs. but they are staying OFF! I have a lot more energy, and know how to get good energy at times of the day I need it. I am rarely ill. My blood pressure is way down. I love nutritious foods and new culinary adventures. My Dietitian is positive and patient – there isn’t a goal you feel you can’t tackle.”

Judy

“My usual tricks for losing weight were no longer working and I realized that I needed to become more informed about food and its effect on my body. With my Dietitians help, I have discovered how to gain control over my weight by making simple choices concerning what and when to eat. The results have been very gratifying in terms of weight loss and my overall health.”

Gayle

“This note is to say thank you so much for all your help with my nutritional questions. I have learnt so much from you. I found it quite fascinating to learn how to group foods together to get the best possible effects and how to choose foods which suited my lifestyle. I feel so much more energized. I know I will use the information you gave me the rest of my life and will impart this knowledge to my family and friends. I found your suggestions on lowering my blood pressure and choosing heart healthy foods a great help. Thank you once again, I know I will recommend you to anyone I feel needs help with his or her nutrition.”

Ann 

“My Dietitian was a tremendous help to me in changing my eating patterns only slightly to make a huge difference in my ability to control hunger. So long as I keep to that pattern of eating, I can feel well, energetic and fit. Weight loss is always very slow for me, but at least being able to not feel hungry all the time helps curb some of my unnecessary eating. Feeling well and improving on fatigue is a real bonus. My Dietitian made me feel like it is very possible to deal with the hunger that was getting in the way of my losing weight.”

Lois

“I was advised be my doctor to consult a Dietician for help in reducing my cholesterol levels and in losing some weight. My Dietitian gave me great advice on the kinds of foods to eat to help me to do so and what times of the day to eat certain foods in order to keep my energy levels up. She also gave me some recipes to use and the ones I have tried so far have been delicious. My Dietitian is very helpful and is willing to spend time explaining her suggestions to you, without making you feel that if you eat something “bad” you are a failure. I know that I can call on her at any time, if I have any questions related to diet.”

Nan

“Last week my doctor recommended that I come to see you. I am thankful that she recommended you. After only one meal I noticed a change. I really don’t remember feeling this good for a long time. My cravings for sweets has diminished and it’s just a bad habit now. Soon to be broken. I have more energy and I am full for a much longer period of time. I can’t believe what a difference this has made. Just by altering a few combinations and adding more carbs to my diet it has made a huge difference. I also eat smaller meals and snack in between. I am acutely aware if I have made a poor choice as I go from feeling great to not so good. I am much more aware now of what I’m putting in my mouth. I don’t want to feel crappy anymore because of the food I’ve decided to eat or not eat. Eating at the right times makes such a difference. I feel great. Thanks for finishing University. I’m sending a letter to my doctor also.”

Lynn

“I was recently diagnosed as glucose intolerant. With my Dietitian’s assistance I have been able to reduce my glucose level to near normal in a very short period of time. She helped us with meal planning, provided valuable information on food and shared many excellent recipes. Her approach was very professional, practical and informative. We are well on our way to a healthier lifestyle.”

Lee

“What I love most about the Health Stand Dietitians is how they help people with healthy eating while still enjoying their favourite foods! I highly recommend the Health Stand team for credible nutrition advice and non-judgemental support in making lasting changes.”

Richelle Tabelon, Registered Dietitian

“I am 48 years old. About 3 years ago I weighed over 240lbs and was totally out of shape. I decided to try to lose weight and get fit. I started by walking the dog and then worked my way up to running. I entered a 10 K race and started to feel much better. Next I ran a half marathon and then finished a 180 km bike race. In February of last year I was 211lbs and 27.5% body fat. I could not seem to lose any more weight so went to see a Dietitian at Health Stand Nutrition. The plan was simple and very easy to follow and it worked. By October 3rd of this year I was down to 184 pounds and 19.9% body fat. I ran 2 Marathons and competed in the Mad Hawk, a 3 day Ironman distance triathlon where I completed the 180 km bike portion of the race an hour better than my time last year. Since then I have devoted more time to weight lifting. My weight has gone up slightly since muscle weighs more than fat. I now weigh 193 lbs but my body fat is down to 15.7%. Since I first started working with my Dietitian she has given me much more information on healthy eating, blood pressure reduction, and eating for endurance events. Her program is easy follow and stay on. I eat everything I did before just smaller portions. Sure every once in a while I pig out on something, but as my Dietitian says it is what you do 90% of the time that counts so don’t worry about one meal here or there. I don’t write down everything I eat each day anymore because making healthy choices has become more or less second nature. I think people as a rule underestimate what they eat and overestimate the physical activity they do. The fad diets may work for a time but can you stick with them? Will you have energy to be active? Can you eat regular food or will you be buying special diet food? Will you be eating the same food as the rest of the family? I think sensible eating as my Dietitian prescribes is the only way to go.”

J.V.

“Almost a year has gone since I first contacted Health Stand Nutrition. My lifestyle was preparing me for an early grave. I was working one full time job as well as subcontracting which used up a considerable amount of my time. I kept going by consuming large amounts of caffeine and taking pain killers to alleviate the headaches so I could handle the next day which held even more unrealistic expectations. Having so much on my plate lead me to grabbing fast food daily. My weight had sky-rocketed and once again, I was classed as obese. To top that, I had developed lactose intolerance and I had found out I had been anemic for several months. I also wanted to ensure that I am getting adequate nutrition to reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer & osteoporosis. By some stroke of luck, despite my excessive weight I had not developed high blood pressure or high cholesterol levels. My Dietitian did not give me a diet. She evaluated my eating habits. She provided me with a wealth of information. Most people see the big accomplishment as the weight loss. And they like to see that big number. I don’t want to tell how much I lost. I am still embarrassed about getting that heavy. I will say that I have lost somewhere between 35-40% of my original weight. Also, the number of pounds that I lost is not where I wanted to focus. That’s just cosmetic. Here are some numbers that are more deserving of a pat on the back.  About a year ago, I was totally out of breath trying to complete a 10 K hike with and elevation gain of 350 Meters. Six months after my first consultation with my Dietitian, I completed a 2 day 167 KM bike race. I have also gone on 34 hikes this year in the mountains (~480 KM with a total elevation gain of over 23 thousand meters. I got to go to places that I had not been before. I recently started trying indoor climbing. And I was recently introduced to snow shoeing. I think I’m hooked on both. The one thing that cannot be measured is the levels of energy, alertness and confidence that comes with getting healthier. And there no way I can describe the rush when I completed the bike tour or made it to the top of a climbing wall the first time. And the best photographer cannot capture what you get to see when you cross a mountain ridge.  I have discontinued subcontracting. I have not felt the loss of income – by the time I factored in how often I was eating out because I was too tired to prepare my own meals, I don’t think I was making anything. I have also completely given up caffeine and pain-killers and feel much more relaxed. I do give myself credit for what I have been able to do. It did not come without hard work. But I did find that the hardest part is the first month or so. After that, it becomes habit. My Dietitian helped by helping me with food plans to address my specific issues. She did not tell me to eat this or not eat this. She looked at what I wanted to accomplish and what I was willing to do to reach my goals and helped me develop my own plans – ones that I knew I would follow. While your goals may be completely different than mine, Health Stand Nutrition can help you come up with a plan to get you there.”

P.C.

“I have been a Registered Psychologist for 14 years working in the area of Eating Disorders. When I am first approached by a client suffering from an Eating Disorder, I always try to ensure they also make a connection with Health Stand Nutrition before I agree to take them on as clients. My reasoning for this is because the dietitians at Health Stand are realistic, down-to-earth, practical and beyond knowledgeable. Therefore, they are absolutely key in the recovery process.  

Between Jana Spindler and I’s collaboration this past decade, we have successfully helped many families with very complex eating disorder presentations. Without Jana’s wealth of food science expertise and her firm, yet warm approach, I’m not sure how far I could get with my clients. 

Jana provides sensible and attainable solutions, offers amazing advice, and wraps it up in warm, emotionally connected conversations. She validates what someone is going through all while educating, guiding and firmly directing the change that is needed.  It truly is the perfect balance for ED recovery. 

If you are even remotely interested in working with Health Stand or taking this group program specifically, let my testimonial convince you to sign up. The Health Stand team is what I consider to be the best in the business and I would trust anyone in their care.  Along with any knowledge or expertise they offer to families going through such a challenging time.”  

– Danelle Spence, Registered Psychologist @ Root Psychology   

“I admit I went to see a Dietitian with somewhat of a closed mind, thinking she was going to be some “granola feeding dietitian”. Was I surprised! My Dietitian’s practical approach and acceptance of human nature helped me to lose 40 lbs and 6 pant sizes; and this was the absolute easiest way to lower my cholesterol. The tailored program allows me to eat whatever I want. The ongoing consultation and having my wife join the program definitely made a difference in my life.”

Mike Podovinnikoff

“I learned how to leave dieting for life. I was taught how to intuitively eat. This was well over 6 years ago and I’ve never looked back. I also sent my son (age 11 at the time) in to get excited and to learn about meal prep and nutrition. He came out of it pumped for fruit and veggie smoothies. He can make a mean chicken finger dinner for us now!! Thanks team! I have and will continue to highly recommend working with your group!”

Jennifer Desilets

“Our family came to Health Stand seeking support and guidance for our adult daughter (JB) after she completed an extended eating disorder day program at Alberta Children’s Hospital (12 weeks). With the help of an excellent program, an incredible health team and her own remarkable determination, JB moved through and beyond suicidal thoughts, bulimia, and depression. Following the program, JB continued her recovery, meeting regularly with psychologists, a psychiatrist, an occupational therapist and medical doctors. Still dealing with anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, attention deficit disorder and anorexia, we felt JB needed ongoing nutritional support with someone she respected. One of JB’s psychologists recommended Health Stand.  

JB made a great choice inviting our dietitian, a highly equipped registered dietician, to be part of her recovery team. JB appreciated our dietitian because she called JB out on her “BS”. JB could not hide much from our dietitian, and this was crucial in JB’s progress. Lies, and manipulation of the truth were often used by the eating disorder. It was a relief to have another person on JB’s team that saw eating disorder for what it truly was – ever changing, multi-layered, difficult to grasp, and not attached to JB’s identity or value. Our dietitian validated the experiences we were having, while detecting and calling out the tactics or schemes of the eating disorder.  

With JB’s invitation and approval, there were no topics off the table. We were supported in our desire to be honest and vulnerable. Our dietitian encouraged questions and accepted the range of emotions that accompany recovery, while providing an open, honest, and respectful environment for our meetings. And whether we were experiencing a good day or a hard day, knowing we were always “on the same team”, was a valuable key in addressing the eating disorder.  

Our dietitian was great at providing suggestions to improve weekly outcomes. She not only challenged JB, but at times provided us as parents, with alternative actions and words to think about and/or implement. Our dietitian also encouraged us to connect with her with questions or concerns in between appointments. Knowing there was help available outside of an appointment was a huge relief. 

Having a strong, knowledgeable, and compassionate team was crucial in JB’s journey to recovery. We were thankful our dietitian recognized the value and importance of working collaboratively with other health professionals caring for our daughter. 

We found a family-centred approach toward recovery to be very beneficial, even as parents of an adult daughter. We have all learned a great deal over the years. Our relationship, which has always been loving, supportive and accepting, is now even richer and deeper! Learning about our strengths and areas to develop, helped us to grow into healthier individuals, resulting in a healthier family.  

JB now uses the various skills she has learned to be open and honest, to articulate her needs, advocate for herself, identity triggers, and to ask for help. We are so very thankful for JB’s progress! Her determination, joy and self-love, qualities the eating disorder tried to twist, shutdown and claim for itself, are now back where they belong, planted firmly in her beautiful heart and mind. 

Working with our dietitian has helped us to know and understand each other more fully, to see the various ways we all cope, deal with stress and handle our insecurities. We are a richer family because of all the help we have received. Now that JB has been doing well for some time, we as parents have taken a back seat, and encouraged JB and our dietitian to continue working together without our direct involvement. Having said that, we know if we ever have concerns and/or questions, our dietitian is available. And that is a blessing!” 

Carla

“As a fellow Dietitian, I often refer clients to the team at Health Stand Nutrition. I know they have a practical, holistic view of client’s needs. And help their clients to make lifestyle changes to feel better whether it’s through a healthier relationship with food, more organized kitchen or managing a health condition.”

Jennifer House, Registered Dietitian

“Some of the things I learned with my dietitian. I found my 4-week sessions with my dietitian very informative and helpful. I learned what kind of textures and fluid consistency are safe for my medical condition, how to eat at the dinner table sitting upright on a chair instead of standing up like I used to do. The idea of building balanced meals that include carbohydrates, vegetables/fruits, and protein, using equal amounts of each category is a great technique for satisfaction. The first time I tried it, I couldn’t believe how it helped me to feel full longer between meals. My dietitian imparts his knowledge in a kind, patient way and welcomes questions.  I plan to follow his advice since it has helped me enjoy my food more and feel stronger. Thank you.”

Diane Harris

“I was looking for guidance during my second pregnancy in an effort to educate myself on how to best care myself and understand nutrition. I have tried every fad diet out there and even when losing weight I realized none of it was sustainable and it left me feeling physically weak. I reached out to Health Stand Nutrition and I was assigned my dietician and through her I was able to learn a lot of useful information about nutrition. I finally understood why none of the fad diets will never stick or help in the long run.

I was also able to stave off gestational diabetes with my second pregnancy. I have been told it is very unlikely to not have gestational diabetes the second time after having it the first time. I believe it was due to the lessons learnt on how to eat nutritious food and also staying active during my pregnancy.

I believe Health Stand Nutrition is just what you need to educate yourself and transform your habits that lead to a healthy and sustainable lifestyle. There are tons of useful resources available and your dietician will always be willing to help you at any point in your journey :)”

Veena Jose

“I really enjoyed my sessions with my dietitian at Health Stand Nutrition. She taught me a lot and listened to me. She did not try to force her ways of thinking like dieticians have done in the past thinking that was best for me. I am currently using the tools she gave me and will be booking more sessions in the new year.  I highly recommend them.”

Courtney Franzon

“I am a recently retired, extremely active health and fitness nut. I’ve always felt that I’ve been pretty good about managing my food choices, but I didn’t know for sure. I came to Health Stand Nutrition looking for 3 things.1. Confirmation that what I was currently eating was overall the right approach. 2. A deep dive into how my current diet stacked up against the daily recommended values of all the macro and micro nutrients. 3. Develop a plan for how I could adapt and change my diet throughout the aging process. And I can tell you that they absolutely delivered on all 3 fronts! I’m now more confident than ever in my nutrition as I look to enjoy great health for years to come.

From the initial 15 minute consultation, to the 3 hours spent picking the brain of the sports nutritionist that was assigned to me, I felt like I was heard every step of the way. 1. I wanted confirmation that my current diet was in general pretty good. Check. I wanted a deep dive into the macro and micro nutrients that I was currently getting and needed to get. Check. I wanted a plan for the future as I head into my retirement years as an extremely active fitness nut. Again, check.

In my experience, Health Stand Nutrition will definitely give you want you want and need to satisfy your nutritional goals.”

Trent Doell

“Thank you to my dietitian for all their efforts in helping me with my issues. Very much appreciated all the tips and solutions to what I have been dealing with. Love the new recipes my dietitian got me into and have tried a lot of them. I am sleeping better and have had less stomach pain. What a relief!! My dietitian also inspired me to bump up my cardio and as a result I am beginning to see my weight reduce.”

Thanks again,

Marge Sealock

“My dietitian always explains information in great details very carefully and patiently. She is ready to spend time to clarify and get across all the facts to her patient, even better than the dietitians at the hospital. More importantly, she gives detailed session notes after each session,  allowing further reading on our own, thus enhancing confidence of the patient under her medical care. My dietitian is indeed a very knowledgeable, mindful and responsible dietitian.”

Jenny & Dixon Lok

“My dietitian is knowledgeable and very helpful. He is good at his work. I personally trust him for my diet without any questions. If you are looking for nutritionist,  and confused about whom to select, I highly recommend everyone to go for him. He won’t disappoint your expectations. Apart from his professional work, he is kind and listens actively.”

Miyu Vaghasiya

“Both my dietitians were such a great resource and support. They helped me to identify my unique concerns, and find the best person and resources to help me achieve my goals. Since working with the team at Health Stand I feel better prepared to enjoy balanced meals that meet my specific needs, identify and work to avoid any triggering foods for my IBS symptoms, and how to maintain my goals in the long term. I would highly recommend Health Stand to anyone who is seeking the support of a registered dietician.”

Megan Eileen

“My sessions with my dietitian have been top-notch! She reads me well and discerns what it is I’m asking, where my confusion lies, and what information I need in order to make good food choices. She provides diagrams and links to further explain what she’s teaching me. I could not have successfully navigated pre-diabetes without her help!”

Patchwork Peanut

“Met with my dietitian and was very impressed. She was incredibly knowledgeable and spent the time to walk me through the details of what I needed to focus on for my goals and we developed an action plan. She made sure I had everything I needed and we even ran over time to make sure we accomplished everything. Highly recommend for anyone looking to level up their nutrition game!”

Chris Wallace

“I would highly recommend my dietitian. She is very knowledgeable and explain things very well. She is always ready to help you.”

– Bhavkiran Singh Dhaliwal

“My dietitian was amazing in helping guide me with any questions or concerns I had throughout my appointments with her, and was always available for any questions I had in between our sessions. I feel like my health has changed for the better and am so happy with my progress thanks to dietitian. I would highly recommend her and Health stand!”

– Jannine Siopongco