— Author of the new book, The Complete Book of Smoothies.

This month, we are thrilled to introduce Nutrition Advisory Board Member and newly published author, Andrea Mathis, MA, RDN, LD, who shares about her journey toward becoming a body-positive dietitian.

1. We would love to hear about your journey toward becoming an RDN. Why did you decide to pursue this profession?

I’ve always been obsessed with nutrition and trying the latest diets, so naturally I looked into becoming a dietitian because I thought dietitians helped people go on diets! As I researched the profession a little more, I learned that the field of dietetics was so much more than my initial assumption. I learned that they helped people with chronic conditions, helped patients recover from injuries, helped others develop a healthy relationship with food, and so much more. This made me love the profession even more, and that’s when I decided to pursue becoming a dietitian!

2. What is the most rewarding part of the work you do?

The most rewarding part of my job is being able help break the typical assumptions and stereotypes that come along with being a dietitian. There are not very many black, indigenous and people of color (BIPOC) dietitians in this profession, and the number of dietitians in a larger body is even less. I confidently represent both of these underrepresented areas and I love inspiring others to continue make this profession more diverse.

3. What is one of the most frequently asked question that you receive from patients/clients/followers and what are your recommendations?

I constantly receive questions about which fad diet is the best diet to try. My answer always remains the same, which is fad diets don’t work. My nutrition philosophy is centered around making attainable, healthful lifestyle changes without restriction. This can be done by incorporating more plant-based meals, enrolling in a fun workout class, drinking more water, etc.

4. Tell us about what it means to be a body-positive registered dietitian?

Body acceptance has become a HUGE part of my nutritional interventions. In my opinion, positive changes can only take place once someone is truly happy with themselves. You can’t make lifestyle changes based on unrealistic expectations that you see on social media or based on what compliments you expect to hear from others. You have to be happy with who you are and make changes that make you happy.

5. What interested you in becoming a member of the Orgain Nutrition Advisory Board?

I’ve always been a huge fan of Orgain. I love how they’ve made it possible to add vital nutrients to your daily diet regimen in a very convenient way. I also love how Orgain products can be tailored to fit any lifestyle. Because of this, I became very interested in becoming a member of the Orgain Nutrition Advisory Board.