Introducing Jenn Messina 
Jenn is a Registered Dietitian and mom of two busy toddlers Madelyn and Leo. After over decade in public health, she found her forever home at Canopy Integrated Health Clinic in Lynn Valley, North Vancouver, providing nutrition coaching and meal planning to individuals, families and picky kids.  Jenn sat down for a virtual Q & A with us this week to chat on her life, practice and how she #getsblended.
 
Q: We've discussed the misconceptions people have around Dietician work/role, can you please clarify for our Blended community? 
A: This has long been a confusing point.  Many people believe, incorrectly, that dietitians are the food police: we put people on strict, restrictive diets (no more chocolate!), or we order special diets for hospital and critical care patients, and generally take the fun out of food/eating. 
 
Dietitians are meant to help translate the science of nutrition into tangible (and tasty) meals that satisfy your body and soul. We are trained to get to the root of a nutrition-related health issue, spot areas of success or deficiencies, help you feel your best, and become healthier whether there is a chronic disease involved or not. 

We are also trained counsellors who specialize in behaviour change and use an unbiased and supportive client-centred approach. Many people feel like they have to wait for “perfect time” and that’s NOT at all the case. Whether ready for small or big changes, the priority is working with clients to set realistic goals and determine individual needs. 

Q: How does your work-style differ?  
A: I’m not your typical dietitian. I look at a holistic picture of health including stress management, sleep, exercise, self-care and of course FOOD and the relationship with food which starts in childhood. I then determine a plan that supports personal goals. Needs can range from medical & blood work, custom recipe & meal planning, a plan for stress management, supplement review, food planning structuring and creating a program that includes support and creates accountibilty. I’ve been a dietitian for over a decade and know that customized strategies are most often the way for reaching needs and goals. 

Q. You're a Blended smoothie fan – what is your “Why Blended”?
A: Life is busy. Crazy busy. Juggling a business, 2 small kids, a household and a fur baby, there are days when my needs come dead last. The grab and go Blended Smoothies help make sure that I get a delicious, high protein, healthy meal.  A fed mama is a patient mama.  My kids also love them when we go out on hikes!
 
Q. How do you #getblended? What are your fave prep methods?
A: Straight outta the pack! No mess, no fuss, just straight up!
 
Q. Which blends are your faves?
A: Anything with a chocolatey taste and/or energy boosting - the Maca Java or Maca Energy are my favourites. My kids love the Açai blends! Check out my top 8 below!
 
Q. Finally, what would be a key health tip(s) you'd share? 
A: When you're planning the day, aim to eat every 4-6 hours to help prevent getting overly hungry and overeating at the next meal. Also, my magic recipe for meals always includes fat, fibre and protein; all 3 are needed to keep you full and satisfied.