Welcome! I’m a nutrition research fellow. This is my online space!
Exploring the intersection of nutrition, culture, and health
I study how food affects our biology in a field of science called Dietetics.
Dietetics is the scientific study of how food and nutrition influence our health. It goes far beyond just food—it encompasses a broad range of areas, from research on how nutrition impacts disease prevention and management to the development of policies that shape public health initiatives. As a science-based field, dietetics is rooted in evidence and constantly evolving through new research, ensuring that individuals receive the most up-to-date guidance for their well-being.
Mission Statement
I am dedicated to transforming healthcare into a culturally inclusive, community-focused system. My research explores the connections between cultural diversity and health outcomes, with the goal of shifting healthcare away from a Western business model toward a collective approach that embraces the wisdom and practices of cultures around the world.
By incorporating cultural food wisdom into modern healthcare, I believe we can create a system that respects diverse backgrounds and supports true wellness for all.
My research studies are focused on Cultural influence relating to health outcomes. I use my experiences traveling as a way to gather data and cultivate my approach. As a student, I do it the ol’ broke back packer way! My focus while exploring the world is on food and culture.
Recent travel expeditions
Lombok, Indonesia 2023
During my time teaching English at Nurul Haram, an all-girls Muslim boarding school, I had the unique opportunity to immerse myself in a rich cultural environment. While teaching, I gathered valuable insights into how the students ate and prepared their meals. This experience offered a firsthand understanding of the role food plays in Muslim culture, from the traditions of preparing meals to the significance of dietary choices within a faith-based context.
This time not only opened my eyes to the diversity of food practices in Muslim culture but also deepened my appreciation for how culture and food are intertwined. It reinforced my belief that honoring cultural traditions is key to providing inclusive and meaningful nutrition care.
This experience continues to shape my approach as I strive to integrate cultural diversity into my dietetic practice.
This is Daeng, someone incredibly special to me, who I had the privilege of growing up with. Last year, I spent time with her in her village nestled in the remote mountains of rural Thailand, just an hour north of the Laos border. During my stay, she welcomed me into her world, sharing her daily life—raising cows and biking through rice fields, both day and night, well into her 60s. Her resilience and grace never ceases to amaze me. For more on her and my Southeast Asia travels click below!
Contact Me
Interested in working together? Fill out some info and I will be in touch shortly. I can’t wait to hear from you!