Hello! My name is Michelle, I’m a registered dietitian with a passion for healthy, easy-to-make recipes that invite you to explore the delicious diversity of food from around the world.
I grew up as a restaurant kid at a Chinese buffet my parents owned. I remember making Chinese desserts and folding egg rolls with my mom (a way my parents avoided paying for childcare and getting help at the restaurant). Somewhere along the way, my love for food evolved into a love for science and nutrition as I grew older.
During my training, I found that the educational focus was often on the Mediterranean diet. While it is undeniably healthful, it seemed to overlook the richness of culinary traditions from various cultures and assumed that people could easily make dietary changes to foods they might not be familiar or comfortable with.
This revelation led me to understand that food is much more than just fuel for our bodies. It’s a vibrant medium to celebrate, create memories, spend time with friends and family, and more importantly, connect with different cultures. I’ve learned that the essence of a healthy diet lies in consuming foods you genuinely enjoy, foods that bring you comfort, and foods that tell a story.
We are all unique and diverse, and our diet should mirror that diversity. Therefore, I firmly believe there’s no single “one-size-fits-all” diet. Instead, I advocate for a diet that is as multifaceted as we are, representing our tastes, heritage, and lifestyle.
Through this blog, my mission is to debunk the misconception that a healthy diet means eliminating your favorite foods. I want to shift the focus on what you can add to your diet – more colors, flavors, nutrients, experiences, and of course, joy. By doing this, we foster a sustainable, enjoyable, and positive relationship with food, which in turn helps us lead healthier, happier lives.
Fun Facts:
- I grew up in northern California and now live in southern California.
- I love rock climbing and hiking. You’ll find me in Yosemite National Park at least once a year.
- I enjoy being a kitten foster and giving newborn kittens a chance at life!