ABOUT
Jessica
What is Holistic Nutrition?
Not a one-size-fits-all approach:
It is an integrative approach to health that focuses on the ''whole'' person. The goal is to optimize the interconnection between the body and mind by better understanding the complete health history, emotional state, lifestyle habits, and current food habits.
Everyone is different:
We are all bio-individually unique. Each person has specific needs, including foods, routines, and preferences. What works for one person doesn't always work for the next. The goal is to address the root of a client's health concerns & goals by creating a balance where imbalances exist.
My Approach
I help people reach their goals in a sustainable way, without micromanaging their diet.
Part of this approach is unlearning some of the ideologies that many of my clients have fixated on in the past, and focusing instead on crucial food principles. We will take a closer look at what's worked for you in the past and what hasn't. I will support and hold you accountable, as you implement actionable steps toward your health goals.
Learning about your body is key:
Working together, you will learn about factors & triggers that can influence your health concerns and behavioral habits. There is a big emphasis on education with my clients - understanding the what, how, and why is very important to long-term success. When we start to learn more about ourselves and our bodies, it's exciting and motivating. It builds confidence so that the rest can easily fall into place.
The Vital Philosophy
1.
Food is
simple
Most people tend to overcomplicate their diet - we are overloaded with information, it's no wonder!
2.
Meals that
satisfy
Learn to be at peace after you eat and enjoy. If you've got a sweet tooth, let's learn to work with it. Food never has to be boring or tasteless!
3.
Build self-awareness
In order to reach your goals and establish habit changes, it's important to become in tune with your thoughts, behaviors, and motivations.
4.
Your body speaks to you
You are the driver in your own seat. Pay attention to what makes you feel good and work with your body, not against it.
Accreditation
Jessica follows a strict code of ethics for her practice. She is a member in good standing of L'Association des Naturopathes Professionnels du Québec (ANPQ) Member No. ND-1634.
Insurance Claims: If you reside in Québec, insurance receipts are provided under Naturopathy coverage.
In 2016, I completed my studies at the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition in Ontario, where I received my designation (R.H.N) and diploma in Natural Nutrition.
Due to different provincial regulatory bodies - in the province of Ontario & others, the professional title of Registered Holistic Nutritionist is permitted, however, in the province of Québec, I work with clients as a Holistic Wellness Practitioner.
Disclaimer: Please note that Jessica Botsas is not a registered dietitian/nutritionist (RD, P.Dt, Dt.P).
My Story
I love to constantly challenge my body, and eat well to support it. Having chronic illnesses run in my family, I became interested in learning about how food can help support the journey to preventative health.
Getting a little personal:
From a young age, I always remember having a sensitive stomach. During my time in university (2011) I began to notice that my digestive symptoms got much worse with an unknown cause at the time. I began to lose weight at an unhealthy pace and my state of health began to decline rapidly. After months of tests, and consulting with different specialists, I was diagnosed with IBS (irritable bowel syndrome). A catch-all term when there is no direct physical cause for your symptoms. I was told to add probiotics to my diet, and simply bump up my calories to gain weight. I was left with many unanswered questions and felt both confused and overwhelmed. The lack of support and guidance I received highlighted a big gap for me between where I was then and how I was going to get better.
Through my personal experience, I have become passionate about food and its impact on our bodies. Experimenting with different approaches over the years, I've been there and done that. Finding sustainable food habits that work, and strengthening a healthy mindset is the key to the long-term maintenance of good health. Don't just do it for now, make sure you can do it for life!