Meet Registered Dietitian Nicole Meadow

Describe a day in your life at work.

My day starts early with a quick run on the treadmill (I am training for my first full triathlon in September). After getting ready, making lunches, and, of course, making coffee, I help my two kids get ready for school. Then I head to my office (NutritionWise) or to Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.

I spend my workday seeing patients/clients, teaching classes, and staying up to date on the most current information on my practice as a clinical dietitian and lactation counselor. In the evening after my little ones go to sleep, I write reports and articles and check in with social media and emails. It’s a long, but exciting day without a dull moment. Usually, I wish there were more hours in the day. I love what I do!

If you can only share one insight, what's the best nutrition advice?

Making changes to one’s diet can be very overwhelming, especially if you try to do too much at one time. I find that the best advice is to make small attainable goals for yourself.

Most of the time, these small changes have very large impacts on your health. Instead of being frustrated by not being able to stick with a plan that involves too many large changes, you will be motivated to continue after you are successful reaching your first goal. Try this and I guarantee success! Remember, we must walk before we run.

You advocate moderation in eating and want people to enjoy food and life. What's your favorite indulgence?

I love food and think that eating should be enjoyable. It’s one of the great pleasures of life. One of my favorite indulgences is a good piece of dark chocolate...that and a great cup of coffee. I love my morning coffee!

What are three simple steps you can take to ensure you + your family are getting the best nutrition?

1. Plan your meals/snacks to help save time (and money) throughout the week. By making a grocery list and sticking to it, you’ll find that making meals at home takes less time than picking up dinner at a store or drive through. And remember you don’t have to cook every night! Cook for two nights and have leftovers the next day. Use convenience appliances like a slow cooker to help with meal preparation.
2. Try to buy fresh products as much as possible and limit processed foods. Shop on the perimeter of the grocery store for the bulk of your items (fruits, veggies, dairy, meats, poultry, fish) and only go down the aisles for specific items from your list.
3. Drink water and limit sugar sweetened beverages. ‘Nuff said.

What is your must-have Honest product?

Honestly (no pun intended), this is a hard one. I use and LOVE so many. I am seriously addicted to the shampoo and the conditioning mist. I can’t get enough of them. Sometimes, I don’t share them with my kids if we are running low—but that’s our little secret ;).