Introduction to Andrea Palmer
Andrea Palmer is a highly qualified New Zealand Registered Dietitian (NZRD) who operates her private practice, Food Habits, in the Wellington and Hutt Valley regions. Her work is distinguished by a weight-inclusive, non-diet approach that focuses on building sustainable, healthy habits rather than pursuing weight loss. By incorporating principles of Intuitive Eating and Health at Every Size (HAES), she assists both adults and children in developing a positive and compassionate relationship with food.
Andrea Palmer's Professional Background and Experience
Before establishing Food Habits, Andrea Palmer honed her skills through diverse roles within the New Zealand health sector. This extensive experience provides her with a holistic understanding of nutrition and its impact on well-being.
Career Timeline
- Chef (1998-2002): Andrea started her career in the New Zealand Army as a chef, gaining hands-on experience in cooking for large groups while ensuring nutritional needs were met.
- Food Service Manager & Dietitian (2007-2011): She worked at the Hutt Valley DHB, managing the food service for over 250 patients at Hutt Hospital and creating special diet menus.
- Dietitian, Food Habits (2013-Present): In 2013, Andrea opened her private practice, Food Habits, where she provides one-on-one and group consultations.
- Private Practice Dietitian, The Rutherford Clinic (2013-Present): She also practices from The Rutherford Clinic, where she specializes in gastrointestinal diseases and syndromes.
Qualifications
- Postgraduate Diploma in Dietetics: University of Otago.
- Bachelor of Consumer and Applied Sciences (Nutrition Degree): University of Otago.
- NZ Registered Dietitian (NZRD): A nationally recognized and regulated title ensuring a high standard of practice.
The Core of Her Philosophy: Non-Diet and Weight-Inclusive
Andrea Palmer's unique and compassionate approach helps clients move away from restrictive dieting and calorie counting toward mindful eating and body acceptance. This philosophy is rooted in evidence-based frameworks that prioritize overall well-being over a number on the scale. Key tenets of her approach include:
- Intuitive Eating: Teaches clients to listen to their body's internal hunger and fullness cues.
- Health at Every Size (HAES): Advocates for health-promoting behaviors regardless of body weight.
- Trauma-Informed Care: Acknowledges the impact of past experiences on a person's relationship with food and body.
Specializations and Services
Andrea Palmer offers a range of services tailored to meet individual and group needs. Her specializations cover a broad spectrum of nutritional health.
- Adult Consultations: For individuals seeking to resolve chronic dieting, improve their relationship with food, and manage various medical conditions.
- Gastrointestinal Health: Expertise in managing complex gastrointestinal diseases and syndromes.
- Paediatric Nutrition: Specializes in helping children and their parents build a positive relationship with food and develop healthy, lasting habits.
- Presentations: Conducts interactive sessions for workplaces, schools, and community organizations on various nutrition topics.
Differentiating the Two Andrea Palmers
For many online searchers, confusion can arise because there are multiple prominent individuals named Andrea Palmer in related health or business fields. To clarify, here is a breakdown differentiating the New Zealand dietitian from a well-known Canadian professional.
| Feature | Andrea Palmer (Dietitian, NZ) | Andrea Palmer (CEO, Canada) |
|---|---|---|
| Profession | New Zealand Registered Dietitian, Nutritionist | Founder and CEO of Awake Labs (digital health) |
| Location | Wellington and Hutt Valley, New Zealand | Canada (Awake Labs is Canadian) |
| Focus Area | Clinical nutrition, non-diet approach, HAES, gastrointestinal health | Digital health, mental health support for people with disabilities |
| Education | University of Otago (PgDipDiet) | UBC (Engineering/Business), Singularity University |
| Business | Food Habits (www.foodhabits.co.nz) | Awake Labs |
Conclusion
Andrea Palmer dietitian is a respected New Zealand healthcare professional with a long and dedicated career in dietetics. Her unique, compassionate, and evidence-based non-diet approach has helped countless individuals and families in the Wellington region build a healthier and more peaceful relationship with food. By focusing on lasting, behavioral changes rather than temporary diet fixes, she stands out as a leading expert in her field. For more information, you can visit her website at foodhabits.co.nz.
