“We all make mistakes or have bad days” – meet dietitian, Faaizah Laher

Why did you become a Registered Dietitian?

Cooking has always been a favourite pastime and being Indian so many of our occasions revolve around food and the kitchen. Helping people through what they eat became an interest when I was in high school and applying for a degree in dietetics seemed like the most natural and ‘next step’.

What do you enjoy most about the work you do? What are the most satisfying moments?

The feeling when a patient with a perforated bowel or frozen abdomen – after a prolonged stay in ICU, high care and general ward – os finally able to leave the hospital and able to eat normally. When a renal patient who feels like they have no hope realises there are healthy and nutritious food choices they can make to ensure they live a healthy life.

What has been your career highlight?

My healthy cooking demos – getting this project off the ground and inspiring participants to eat and lead a healthier life. Translating nutrition knowledge into little pieces of practical advice for a magazine article or radio interview.

What are the most challenging aspects of your career?

The uncertainty when I left government service to start a private practise. Private can be a lonely place and fostering new relationships and keeping old ones close is so important!

How do you cope after a day of nutrition disaster and bad eating choices?

Get right back into eating healthy again. We all make mistakes or have bad days. Accept it, learn from it and move forward.

What are the three things that you think people should stop saying when they meet a dietitian?

• I really need to come see you! (As they rub their tummy)
• Oh, so should you really be eating that?
• Email me a diet, I don’t eat but I just keep putting on all this weight!!

What should clients look out for when deciding which dietitian to work with?

Proximity to your work or house. Someone located close to you makes follow ups easier and also enables success in terms of achieving goals and relationship building. Consider choosing a professional that has an interest in the needs you have. Not all are comfortable in terms of allergies/ paeds and other specific conditions.

What is your favourite dish and your favourite treat food?

• Favourite dish at the moment: Tandoori chicken grilled perfectly, with a crunchy salad and grilled potatoes. Using the leftovers in a wrap the next day for work! .
• Popcorn!!

this article was originally published at:
https://nutritionconfidence.wordpress.com/2016/06/22/we-all-make-mistakes-or-have-bad-days-meet-dietitian-faaizah-laher/