I grew up in an Italian family where food was the focus of many joyful and special occasions. There was an abundance of fresh food. As a child, I “helped” my dad start the vegetable garden each spring. By mid summer we ate fresh vegetables every night, and my mother froze fresh-picked broccoli to eat for Thanksgiving dinner. Even though we lived in the Northeast, we always had a huge summer garden and orchard. As a child, I climbed cherry trees, picked sickel pears, peaches and plums. How fun was it to climb a tree, have a bird’s eye view of the landscape, and eat a freshly picked snack!? How my grandparents kept those fruit trees so strong and healthy, I still have no idea (my fruit trees aren’t doing as well…), but it offered me variety in my diet and taught me that food should be respected, nurtured and enjoyed, and so should life!
My interest in food took a different path when I was diagnosed with food allergies as a pre-teen. By the time I got to college, they were under control, but this led me to a career in dietetics. I realized what a connection my diet had to my health. I have both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in clinical nutrition, and have worked for 20 years as a registered dietitian, counseling, teaching, speaking and writing about good nutrition.
I again became aware of how my diet is linked to my health and well being when I turned 40. Turning 40 brings many things to light, such as, “Gee, I can’t get away with exercising erratically and eating dessert any time I want!” It also poses an important question: “What’s really important in my life?” To answer the latter, I had to figure out how to find balance.
As you get older, your body changes and your responsibilities often grow. This means dealing with a shift in your metabolism and a demand for new ways to cope with the stresses of daily life. Whether it’s kids, elderly parents, your health, or work, you have to find a way to balance things. This can be a challenge! Finding “me time” is one of the most important steps to living a balanced life.
What does “me time” have to do with weight control? Exercise and relaxation require some “me time”. I exercise at least 3-4 times every week to ensure I can maintain a healthy weight, keep my blood cholesterol in check, and control stress.
I not only exercise for the stress reduction and health benefits; I do it because I love to eat! Eating is an enjoyable part of my life. I firmly believe in enjoying every aspect of food, from it’s procurement, to it’s preparation, and finally to its consumption.
I like to encourage people to eat well for the right reasons which is why I love working with Real Living Nutrition. Eating well isn’t just good for your figure; it’s good for your mind, body and spirit! I don’t believe in depriving yourself of foods that you love, but I do believe in feeding the body well and always being open to trying new foods.
I’m looking forward to helping you achieve your weight management goals, feel better and stay healthier!
Fun Facts About Me
- I love the outdoors. I ski, snowboard, paddle, run, and walk outside all year round. I learned to snowboard at age 41 when my sons took lessons. I’ve never been so sore in my entire life as I was on day 2 of snowboard lessons. I’m working on my paddleboarding skills.
- I enjoy gardening (except for those darn weeds).
- I like to try new things, even if they’re scary (like snowboarding at 41 or traveling alone).
- I can’t decide which I love more: the ocean or the mountains! But I think it’s the ocean.
- I love outdoor spaces. I welcome springtime in the Northeast by getting out the furniture and sitting on my front porch or on my deck to work, write, read or just sit.
- I love to go out dancing. It’s a good calorie burn and a great stress-buster!
- I enjoy cooking, especially for a crowd. Nothing says, “I care about you”, more than a well-thought meal. Simple meals are my favorite to prepare and often the most enjoyed. I love big family gatherings.
- Next to those “outdoor rooms”, the dining room is my favorite room in the house!
Want to Work with Rosanne?
Just enter her Registered Dietitian Code when you register for one of our programs
Code #: 3003
