I suffered with acne and breakouts for more than a decade. I constantly questioned and blamed myself for not having clear skin. In the beginning, I did and tried everything: medication, birth control, dozens of overpriced topical products claiming to be the “acne cure,” facials, treatments – you name it, I did it! After all of those failed to relieve my skin issues, I decided to try to understand why this was happening. I thought if I could only get healthier and eat cleaner, it would go away. Out of everything I had ever tried, changing my diet made the biggest difference, but it still wasn’t enough. I had to look deeper.
My interest and passion for nutrition goes back to high school when I was a competitive runner on track and cross country, when I first understood the relationship between food and performance. After receiving my Bachelors of Science degree from San Diego State University in Foods and Nutrition (dietetics), I pursued a career in integrative medicine/ nutrition. My own health challenges at the time were such longtime symptoms that they were becoming “normal,” even though I knew inside that I did not feel right.
It had been three years since my last menstrual cycle, my face was breaking out uncontrollably, my weight was creeping up steadily, I had severe digestive distress, I was constantly cold (even in warm weather) and my hair was falling out in chunks. As a woman, I was devastated and didn’t know what was going on, and the only answer I was receiving from my doctors was antibiotics and birth control. Needless to say I was frustrated. With a background in science and the relentless mind of a scientist, I was determined to understand what was going on in my body to help myself recover and regain my health.
I decided to explore other healthcare systems, cultures, and therapies. I traveled and explored other countries; it was at this time where I became enlightened to the fact that nutrition is not a one size fits all model. I developed a strong passion for this field of holistic/alternative health and became completely devoted to furthering my education to fit my newly discovered philosophy. Not long thereafter, I found the missing link I needed. I received my certification as a Certified Nutritional Therapy Practitioner (NTP) from the Nutritional Therapy Association, Inc. (NTA).
It was after years of education, self research, experimenting with an array of different nutrition plans, supplements and topical solutions that I finally understood what the root cause of my acne was.
Through my personal experience suffering with skin and digestive problems for years, I know how debilitating and frustrating this can feel. The experience and journey I have been on for my personal health has sparked my passion to pursue and specialize in skin health, so I have the opportunity to help others find a solution to their needs. Internal work and looking at many factors such as nutrition, stress, lifestyle, sleep, hormones, and even product usage can affect the body’s physiological response and therefore how the skin reacts. Only then can we begin to understand why we develop skin issues and get to the root of the problem once and for all!
Contact me for a complimentary 15 minute consultation to discuss your concerns, health goals and how working with a Nutritionist who understands skin, may just be the answer you’re looking for.
