Welcome to omnivoRD, a space created to inspire and cultivate healthy lifestyles! Discover more about nutrition, drool over yummy recipes, and explore awesome places on and off the Internet.
Learn about the connection between food and your health with interesting and easy articles that break down everything from the basics of nutrition to puzzling new fads.
There's plenty of ways and reasons to be active. Be inspired to go outside and adventure. Enjoy all the physical and mental benefits of exercise while seeking out new experiences.
Everyone knows the drill: eat more veggies and fruit- but what does that look like on your plate? Look for quick, no-fuss recipes here!
adjective | om·niv·o·rous | \ämˈniv-rəs
1. Varied diet from plant and animal
sources
2. Enthusiastically reading or learning;
Curiously and avidly taking it all in
Hi, I'm Joyce Chang, the registered dietitian behind omnivoRD! I prep, make, photograph, teach, discuss, and enjoy food. My favourite part about being a dietitian is that I'm a healthcare professional, educator, counsellor, and cook, all at the same time! This website is for you- someone who wants to learn more about nutrition and healthy living. Thanks for stopping by omnivoRD, happy reading!
Q: Why is this blog called "omnivoRD"?
A: Omnivore + RD (registered dietitian) = omnivoRD. Omnivore is a word that describes people/animals who eat both plants and animals. Like most people, I eat an omnivorous diet. I advocate for including a variety of foods in your diet and believe that most foods can have a place in a healthy lifestyle.
Q: What's the difference between a dietitian and a nutritionist, or a dietitian and another blogger?
A: Dietitians are part of a regulated profession- we are health professionals like nurses or doctors. We are educated through accredited university programs that are science and evidence-based. We put theoretical knowledge into practice with mandatory practicums at hospitals, clinics, community centers, schools, and more. We are regulated by provincial bodies that hold us responsible and accountable for the nutrition advice we provide. We are committed to learning and staying updated when it comes to dietetics and human nutrition. On the other hand, the term nutritionist is not a regulated title in BC, which means that technically anyone can call themselves one. To find out more, click here.
Q: What should I eat? What’s the best diet out there?
A: This feels like a trick question- there's no "one-size-fits-all" diet! What we eat depends on our likes, dislikes, cultural backgrounds, what's available to us, and many other factors. Some dietitians say that the best diet is one that you can stick to, while others advise practicing moderation. These are general statements that I agree with and here are a few other suggestions* to help you kickstart your healthy lifestyle:
Using proven and trusted sources for healthy eating guidelines like Canada’s Food Guide, Health Canada, Dietitians of Canada, the Mediterranean Diet, and the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) Diet.
Thinking about the plate method to keep yourself on track: Fill ½ your plate with vegetables and fruit, ¼ with protein, and ¼ with grains. Don’t forget to include a source of dairy!
Lots of fruits and vegetables whether frozen, fresh, dried, dehydrated, canned (these may be high in sugar/sodium!), etc.
Choosing more whole wheat grains and grain products: oatmeal, brown rice, whole wheat bread
Protein from both plant and animal sources: eggs, tofu, legumes, chicken, nuts, fish, beef
Lower fat dairy products: skim to 2% milk and yogurt, cheese. Alternative dairy products like fortified soy, almond, and other nut milks
Oils with healthy fats: olive, soy, canola, sesame
Staying hydrated with water and other low calorie drinks rather than juice and sweetened beverages
Being physically active with a sport or activity that you enjoy
*If you have a chronic disease, intolerances, or allergies, these tips may not be suitable for you. Get in touch with me for personalized advice!
Questions about an article on here? Wondering about a recent "Top Ten List of Foods to Avoid" that your friend posted on Facebook? Want to book an appointment or need help hosting a corporate wellness session? Email us with the form below or say hello through social media!
