I Tried it: Working with a Registered Holistic Nutritionist

...and it changed more than my food.

Let me start by saying: I’ve only worked with one registered holistic nutritionist—but it was enough to make a big impact.

I first reached out because I needed help with dietary changes. I expected food lists, maybe a few recipes, and definitely some "no-fun foods" flagged in red. But what I got was something completely different. From the very first call, it was clear she wasn’t just interested in what I was eating—she wanted to know how my whole system was functioning.

Not Just Food Swaps

She wasn’t focused on “working around” dietary restrictions. Instead, her approach was about gently restoring balance so I wouldn't need as many restrictions in the first place. She did a deep dive intake: a long questionnaire, a virtual interview, and eventually a full wellness protocol.

That plan? It covered everything—foods to include, foods to avoid (yes, RIP to my beloved chips), lifestyle practices (like dry brushing, walking, journaling), and a tailored supplement regimen. Some supplements were familiar, like omega-3s. Others were homeopathic, meant to help move toxins and support deeper healing.

But Do Supplements Even Work?

I’ll admit, I was skeptical. There's a lot of chatter out there about expensive supplements and “expensive pee.” But for me? The results are hard to ignore. I live with rheumatoid arthritis, and my inflammation markers have dropped dramatically. Symptoms I didn’t even realize were symptoms began fading away. I felt like my body was being scaffolded—given support to do what it was always meant to do.

It’s a slow process. Healing is. But with each phase, we reassess, tweak the protocol, and shift focus to the next system needing support. I meet with her virtually every 4–6 weeks, and she works alongside my doctor, reviewing my bloodwork to guide next steps. No touching, no guessing—just steady, thoughtful adjustments.

Yes, the supplements can be pricey. But I see them as an investment in my future self: a way to age with vitality, not prescriptions.

So What Is a Registered Holistic Nutritionist?

Registered Holistic Nutritionists (RHNs) are trained to assess nutritional needs and support whole-body wellness through diet, supplementation, and lifestyle. In Canada, RHNs typically graduate from recognized institutions like the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition (CSNN), where they study everything from anatomy and biochemistry to digestive health and the mind-body connection.

RHNs aren’t doctors, and their services don’t replace medical care—but they can be an amazing complement. It’s important to find someone who is certified, transparent, and ideally willing to work alongside your existing healthcare team. In most provinces, the title isn’t legally protected, so make sure you check credentials.

My Honest Take

Working with this RHN has changed how I see my health. She’s not just a food coach—she’s a systems thinker, a detective, and honestly a bit of a magician. Not every practitioner works this way, so ask questions and find someone who feels like the right fit.

If you're feeling stuck, burnt out, or like your body just isn’t bouncing back the way it used to, it might be worth exploring. This isn’t a quick fix. But it is, in my experience, a powerful one.

ReCap:

• Clothed: Yes

  
  

• Physical touch: No

  
  

• Format: Virtual or in-person consults with customized protocols

  
  

• Involves: Nutrition, supplements, lifestyle shifts, bloodwork monitoring

  
  

• Cost: Varies by practitioner and supplement plan (can be an investment)

  
  

• Good to Know: Look for certified practitioners, ideally RHNs from CSNN or equivalent programs

  
  

• My Takeaway: A slow but steady shift from restriction to resilience