When did you decide you wanted to be a nutritionist?
I was in my senior year of college as an art history major when I realized I was more interested in health and wellness than art. My parents thought I should work for a few years before making a complete career/education change. I worked for six years in publishing before returning to graduate school for nutrition.

If you were to teach us all one good rule about healthy eating what would it be?
All foods can be eaten. It's just a matter of how much and how often.

Which foods are misconceived as being unhealthy?
Fruits, due to their sugar content. Yes, they have the natural sugar, fructose, but eating strawberries and melon does not cause weight gain and diabetes.

If there was one food you could ban from our diets, what would it be?
Soda. Regular/non-diet soda. There is no nutritional benefit to soda. It's just a major calorie contributor.

Can vitamins replace the nutrients we are supposed to get from food?
No. Vitamins taken in a standard dosage (no mega-dosing) can complement a healthy diet. Many people are low or borderline low for Vitamin D and a supplement can help. Do not rely on vitamins to replace food. Science cannot exactly duplicate the breakdown and metabolism of foods.

What are the most dangerous eating habits common among Americans?
Overeating. Portion size and moderation are foreign concepts to many people. Eating healthy foods is certainly important, however, overeating them is no bargain.

I want to lose weight, should I take diet pills?
Absolutely not. A quick fix is never the answer. Plus, diet pills are often pulled from the market after some consumers have adverse side effects.

I am on a diet, what should I eat? What should I avoid?
Eat lots of non-starchy vegetables. They are low in calories, high in fiber, chock full of vitamins, take a while to eat and fill you up. Avoid calorie-laden beverages such as specialty coffees filled with chocolate. They are calorically dense and you usually drink them quickly.

What should I eat to boost my energy level?
A combination of carbohydrates and proteins. For instance, lowfat or nonfat Greek yogurt with berries and two tablespoons of granola would give you a burst of energy.

What are the latest trends in the field of nutrition and dietetics?
The reduction of sodium in our foods. New York City, in particular, is actively trying to get food manufacturers and restaurants to decrease the amount of sodium in their foods. By cutting approximately 1,200 milligrams of sodium out of the average American's daily diet we can reduce blood pressures and the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Have you noticed a trend in the culinary field towards better nutrition? How are restaurant menus evolving?
There is certainly a trend toward better nutrition. I recently noticed that at my local diner they offered a choice of French fries or broccoli on the kids' menu. It's now up to parents to make the better decision and choose the broccoli.

When you are dining out, what meal choices do you gravitate towards?
For breakfast, I might order a veggie omelet with whole wheat toast. For lunch, usually a salad with some sort of lowfat protein on top (grilled chicken, hard-boiled egg, turkey) and a lowfat vinaigrette served on the sided or balsamic vinegar. For dinner, I like to order two appetizers for my meal. That way I can have something a little more decadent but in a smaller portion. Perhaps one crab cake and a mixed baby green salad with heirloom tomatoes. I had a delicious summer salad the other night. It was an arugula base with grilled watermelon, goat cheese and sliced almonds. De-lish!

What are your beverages of choice?
Coffee, water, diet peach Snapple iced tea, diet Pepsi, Crystal Light iced tea.

How do you feel about genetically modified foods? I enjoy watermelon without pits.

What defines your personal style as a nutritionist?
The 90/10 rule. Eat well 90% of the time and goof off 10% and you'll be fine.

You teach a lot to your clients about nutrition, what have you learned from them?
I've learned a lot about other cultures' foods and holidays and celebrations. I've also been given great recipes and restaurant recommendations.