Food answer to healing the body
Heather Barrow is the complete package, bringing together her love of fitness, nutrition and people into her life and work.
With a degree in sociology, papers in anatomy and physiology and a diploma in nutritional science, Heather has the knowledge, experience and enthusiasm to head Food for Life, her new company run from Gee’s Pharmacy in Taradale.
Heather originates from Washington, DC and says from an early age she remembers being interested in nutrition.
Heather was the first Zumba instructor in the country. She says she loves people and communicating — and different groups of people.
“I’m interacting all the time so that comes in handy.”
She says she is seeing the medical system become overburdened, with clients telling her their issues haven’t been resolved.
“I see blood results that are flagged as high, but the client has had no feedback.”
Heather’s goal is to get to the root of the problem. During an initial one-and-a-half hour consultation, she looks at the clients’ lifestyle, diet and body systems, and does any necessary testing to see if the problem may be a food allergy or hormonal.
“There are a lot of stressors impacting the body systems, especially with chlorination. I’m seeing gut, skin and hormonal issues,” Heather says.
She says people are sick and tired of being sick and tired.
“Most people don’t realise how their bodies are designed to feel. It’s detective work. Everyone is a unique puzzle.”
Heather says she also sees a lot of people trying to lose weight.
“It’s such a joy to see people come in and I take their measurements — they’re so elated.”
She believes we can look to food to heal our bodies, although with depleted soil, some people need supplements.
“People don’t realise what we do as nutritionists. They will walk away with a wealth of information and a treatment plan that is unique to them. I cover all areas of the body.”
Heather says the body gives signals that it’s out of balance and she asks a lot of questions to pick up on the clues.
“All those symptoms are the body talking to you — ‘Hey, something’s not right’. My job is to detect what the body is trying to says.”
■ Visit www.foodforlife.co.nz