Stepping up your health and wellness game takes some major dedication, time, and finding the right education on how to do it properly. After being quarantined at home the last few months, many of us have taken a deeper look into our daily habits and might have been a bit — *ahem* — surprised with the findings. Well-known Hoboken-based Registered Dietitian {and previous HG of the Week} Vanessa Rissetto is cooking up a new business called Culina Health and is partnering with another local expert — Tamar Samuels — to support clients on their journey of a healthier life. Working with Culina Health is meant to fit your lifestyle — in person, virtual video sessions, and phone calls are available as well as different services to support your daily habits and needs. Read below to learn all about Vanessa, Tamar, and how Culina Health is here to kick-start your wellness routine.
The Creation of Culina Health
Culina means “kitchen” in Latin, and the ladies behind Culina Health ascribe to the belief that nutrition is the foundation of health, which can start in the kitchen. Culina Health offers full-service nutrition counseling and was started by Vanessa Rissetto and Tamar Samuels. The two provide virtual and in-person nutrition sessions and participate with most major insurance companies, so focusing on your health is more affordable and possible. The duo will also be releasing some e-courses which are perfect for people who are ready to take a step forward to better their health but without the commitment. A monthly membership is also available for those who would love the support of shopping lists, meal plans, and group coaching on a regular basis.
The Women Behind the Brand
Vanessa went back to school in 2006 after a career working in media to become a Registered Dietitian. “I always had an interest in medicine and science, so I went back to grad school and they let me take some nutrition classes. Thirteen years later here I am. If I was younger and had more time I would go back to school and become a doctor — maybe in my next life. I’ve always wanted to help people in an actionable way and this is the best way I know-how,” Vanessa told us.
Vanessa helps her clients change their lives by unpacking all the emotional baggage they have related to food. She was previously a Senior Dietitian at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, and obtained much of her knowledge and experience by working with patients with various diseases, beyond just those she specializes in. She’s also worked with CEOs of fortune 500 companies and was featured in magazines such as Essence, Shape, Women’s Health, Men’s Health, and Oprah.com. She is certified by the Commission on Dietetic Registration in Adult Weight Management {Level I & II} and is published for her writings on bariatric surgery.
Tamar also has a passion for helping people — she aims to help build confidence and empowerment when it comes to her clients’ health. “I believe that regularly practicing self-care and self-love is the foundation for living a balanced and fulfilling life. So many of us struggle with feeling frustrated about our health, uncomfortable in our skin, and confused about how to eat. I’ve definitely been there!”
Tamar works with her clients so they can achieve their health goals and make sustainable lifestyle changes, as well as adopt healthy and effective strategies for managing stress. She is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist through the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach through the National Board of Medical Examiners, plus holds several other certifications in the field. Tamar has been featured in award-winning national online publications, including the Huffington Post, Byrdie, Hello Giggles, and more. Well + Good also named her one of the top holistic nutritionists in New York City.
What To Expect
Many of Vanessa and Tamar’s clients have worked tirelessly trying to find the right education and support to become the best versions of themselves. When working with Culina Health, clients can expect to have a partner who holds them accountable and helps them maintain balance. Vanessa explained to us, “Know that weight loss isn’t linear — it has a lot of ups and downs, but I help [my clients] manage all the emotional stuff along with educating them so they can be set up for success.”
Clients can enjoy a mix of the following services, depending on their needs and goals:
- – Online programming: This helps develop a plan specifically for your individual life. Vanessa and Tamar develop recipes and go through menus, guiding you on what the best choices are, which includes a weekly check-in via email or text.
- – Recipe planning: Learn how to make all your favorite meals in a healthier way, without sacrificing flavor.
- – Shopping for you + with you: Let Vanessa or Tamar join you on a food shopping trip so you can stock up on all the best items to help create fun, tasty, and healthy meals.
- – Kitchen clean out: Set yourself up for success by getting rid of the stuff that won’t help you reach your goal. Work on a deep-clean out so that you’re left with only the best food, snacks, and ingredients.
- – Meal prep: Meal prepping can be an overwhelming experience, especially if you’re new to it. Vanessa and Tamar will help you prep, show you some tips + tricks, and leave with you a plan to get you through the week.
But working with Culina Health doesn’t just mean losing weight — it also means getting stronger, exercising more days, fixing some GI issues, or whatever it is you need help with on your journey. It’s about learning to understand how food works in your body, not only physically but mentally as well.
Start Your Wellness Journey
If you’re ready to step into a healthier lifestyle through food and nutrition, reach out to Culina Health by emailing info@culinahealth.com. Vanessa or Tamar will be in touch with the next steps in creating a customized plan to fit your needs. Make sure you tell them we sent you!
This post is sponsored by Vanessa Rissetto.
