My Nutrition Philosophy

 

As a nutrition educator, I believe all adult learners can achieve their personal best with their nutrition goals through scientific evidence-based nutrition education that is relevant, meaningful, and values culture.  The way that I teach nutrition is rooted in the Progressive and Humanistic Adult Education Philosophies.  As a nutrition educator, the teaching model that I use is the Motivational Framework for Culturally Responsive Teaching (Wlodkowski, 2008). The framework consists of four key elements: establishing inclusion, developing positive attitudes toward learning, enhancing meaning in learning, and engendering competence. 

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I believe that moderation is the key to a healthy diet.  Healthy eating is about long-term eating habits, not one food occasionally consumed.  There are no "good foods" or "bad foods," only foods that can be consumed more or less often than others.  Food is not the enemy, and enjoyment of food is a part of a healthy, balanced lifestyle.  I believe that you know your body better than I do, and therefore I am your health coach and not the only expert.  We are a team, working together towards health goals that you determine.  Since these are your health goals, you are expected to work hard, keep an open mind, and be willing to consider different strategies.  You are expected to do the necessary work, ask questions, and let me know when you need additional guidance.  Our relationship is based on mutual respect and trust.  I will provide a safe, inclusive, nurturing environment that values you.  I will strive to understand your perspective and honor your cultural practices through nutrition education activities that are relevant, engaging, challenging, and that motivate you. Finally, I will provide authentic opportunities for you to confirm your new knowledge in the real world.  Real change in dietary habits requires a fundamental shift in all three aspects of learning:  cognitive (ideas, concepts, knowledge), affective (emotions, perceptions), and psychomotor (doing something different, taking action) (Vella, 2002).  My desire is to be a catalyst for transformative change in your journey towards meeting your personal nutrition goals.  I look forward to our collaborative effort.

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References:

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Vella, J. (2002). Learning to listen learning to teach:  The 

     power of dialogue in education adults. (Chapter 1). 

     San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass

Wlodkowski, R.J. (2008). Enhancing adult motivation to 

     learn:  A comprehensive guide for teaching all adults

     (3rd ed.). San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass