My Fitness Mantra Would Be 'Consistency Is Key' - Sumaiya Essa

1. Tell us more about your yourself and your profession.

Dietitians use the science of nutrition to improve health and treat a number of diseases/conditions by educating and giving practical, personalised advice to clients, patients and carers.

2. What is your fitness mantra ?

My fitness mantra would be “consistency is key”.

3. What are some of major misconceptions about diets and exercises ?

Well I can speak from the diet side of things and say that people assume it has to be expensive, extremely restrictive and only done for a short time to get the best results. They are also quick to follow “trends” which are ever changing, and create more conflict and confusion for themselves.

4. How can one maintain a healthy lifestyle ?

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle would be easy if you accept that it needs to be personalized to you, it is something that you have to do consistently and continuously, and not something that has a “start/stop” button.

5. How can one build a successful career in your field ?

There are many fields of dietetics to explore- community, clinical, food service or research. It would depend on your interest. I think with any profession, it is generally tough to find a job or start up on your own. But if you do start your own practice, remember to stay focused and passionate and acknowledge that it will not be an overnight success. 

Market yourself well, particularly an online presence and especially after the year we have been having with most things being “virtual.” Don’t be afraid to share a little more information at no charge to people to get them interested in wanting to know more about what you can do for them. Maybe also find a particular field that interests you and focus on that to make it more streamlined.

6. What is one piece of advice you would like to give someone who wishes to lose weight ?

Be mindful about portion sizes! Even if you’re choosing healthy options but eating too much of it, you still aren’t going to see great results. An overall calorie deficit is what it boils down too.

7. How do diets and exercise contribute to overall well being and happiness ?

I wouldn’t say “diets” contribute to well-being and happiness. The word diet has negative connotations for me and implies something short lived. Would rather refer to it as a healthy lifestyle, incorporating both healthy eating and exercise, to protect you from illness and disease and keep you at your best in the long term.

Sumaiya Essa - Registered Dietitian 

Interview by - Priyanka