Summer has come to an end, another academic year begins, and the season of fall colors & pumpkin spice commences. Whenever Autumn comes along, I often reminisce of my times in undergrad at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. The epitome of a Californian college life (#basic). As we fall into Autumn (hehe get it), it seemed a perfect fit to have a fellow Mustang featured as September’s Woman of the Month.
Rachel Mistry completed her Bachelor’s Degree with a double concentration in Applied Nutrition and Nutrition Science along with a Biology minor. We became friends while living in the same freshman dorm (Where my Fremont aggies at??). We even remained neighbors for a bit while living off-campus. Since our Cal Poly days, we have both gone back to school to further our education. And not only do we share the same name, but also a love for food! Thanks to social media, we’ve been able to keep in touch over the years and watch each other pursue our dream careers.
After graduating Cal Poly, Rachel moved to Springfield, Missouri to complete a combined Master of Science in Nutrition Diagnostics/Dietetic Internship Program at Cox College. Now, she is a registered dietitian and is working at a functional medicine clinic in Saratoga, California. She also shares her expertise on instagram (@radiatewithrachel) and educates followers on nutrition – busting myths and sharing recipes & fun facts.
“I chose nutrition because I LOVE food. I’ve always been one of those people who’s getting excited about their next meal before they finish the one they’re currently eating. This combined with my passion for health and wellness is what pushed me to pursue a career as a registered dietitian. I think it is so amazing how food has the ability to prevent, treat, and even reverse disease, and I love to show people through my instagram that healthy eating can also be delicious. I also HATE blood and vomit, so I knew becoming a doctor or a nurse was not for me.”
At the functional medicine clinic where she works, they take on more of a holistic approach with patients. “It’s different than what I’m used to dealing with in the clinical setting, and I’m trying to learn as much as possible to ensure I’m providing the best care possible to my patients.” One of her personal goals is to make sure she is taking time to take care for herself as she transitions to working full time. As far as health and fitness goals go, she continues to check-in with herself to make sure that what she does for exercise and movement is something that makes her happy. “I’m looking into starting up yoga again, and hope to improve my flexibility as well!” This is definitely such a good approach to true physical health. Make sure you enjoy the way your exercise and move – there is definitely an activity out there for everyone!
I asked Rachel about the top food myth that drives her mad. She said that one of the concepts that drives her crazy is the belief that there is a perfect diet out there. “We are all different – what works for one person will not always work for another! What I do know is that diets rich in whole, REAL foods and low in processed/refined foods are overall more nutritious and beneficial to our health.”
For breakfast, Rachel usually eats some form of avocado, tomatoes, and eggs. Some of her favorite go-to snacks include string cheese, mashed avocado with carrots, greek yogurt with berries, and berries & nut butter on a rice cake. Some of her pantry staples include bell peppers, onions, garlic, sweet potatoes, ground turkey or chicken, avocado, bread, zucchini, spinach, berries, carrots, and eggs. I’ll give you a minute to write up that grocery list 😉
Of course, now that it is fall, I had to ask Rachel about her favorite fall recipes! She says anything butternut squash is a winner. Also, balsamic brussel sprouts and crockpot soups/stews. YUM.
Her advice for anyone who wants to start cooking more of their own meals: “Keep it simple, but don’t be afraid to experiment in the kitchen! It can take a while to figure out what YOU like best and what works for your schedule and cooking skills.” She suggests to start with exploring a little on either Instagram or Pinterest for some fun recipes. From there, make a shopping list (be sure to check and see what you have at home already), then head to the store! She understands that the thought of shopping and cooking on the same day can seem overwhelming, and ensures that it’s okay to split these tasks up into two separate days.
“I personally like to prepare foods in such a way that I can combine them differently to make different meals! For example, I love having roasted chicken on hand to use in a bunch of different dishes including salads, on pizzas, in wraps or sandwiches, or by itself.”
Rachel’s current food obsessions are Miyoko’s Kitchen Vegan Cream Cheese, avocado toast, and the cauliflower gnocci from Trader Joe’s. And now that she is back in California, she has really been enjoying hiking and going to the beach again!
During challenging times, Rachel stays motivated by keeping in mind how hard she has worked to get to where she is now, and how happy she will be when she has finished she started. Her one piece of advice she thinks every woman should know: “Stop comparing yourself to others; you’re exactly where you need to be!” Definitely words of wisdom.
It’s been so wonderful knowing Rachel and I’m so glad we’ve been able to keep in touch over the years. Plus, I love all her advice on nutrition and product suggestions. For your own daily food inspiration and great nutritional advice, go follow @radiatewithrachel on Instagram. And be sure to check out her highlight, “Discounts”, for some amazing deals on some of her favorite products! 🙂