1. What qualifications do you have?
I have a Bachelor of Science Degree in Dietetics and a Postgraduate Diploma in Dietetics, both obtained from the University of Natal, Pietermaritzburg and I have also completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Management (Business Administration) through Wits Business School.
2. What work experience do you have?
I started my Dietetics career with my one year community service at Tembisa Hospital in 2003. I then worked as a medical sales representative for two years after which I took off a year to do my PDM at Wits Business School, completing a 2 month internship at Dimension Data during this time. After graduating I worked for a few months at Nielsen, before deciding to move back into my field of passion; nutrition and health, where I joined Maryke Van Zyl in her private practice. From there I moved to Anne Till and Associates and after 4 years of great experience there, I felt ready to set up on my own when she moved overseas. This was when my colleagues and I started up MME Dietitians, where we were for 7 years. In February 2019 we all moved our own ways and I am now practicing on my own as Jenny Meyer Dietitians.
3. What does your work involve?
In my practice I do mainly individualised consultations where I work with my clients in simplifying nutrition noise, providing individualised nutrition education and advice, developing personalised meal plans and providing ongoing support and motivation.
My corporate work involves but is not limited to Medico Legal Assessments, menu development, recipe analysis and group wellness day where I set up interactive nutrition stands and do group talks and presentations.
Other corporate work I have done includes assistance in the development of an IBS recipe book, content development for websites, weight loss programs, development of nutrition related materials and reviewing and writing literature reviews.
I also do some media related work which includes TV and radio interviews and appearances and writing content for consumer articles for various magazines, newspapers and publications.
4. Do you have a special interest in Dietetics?
I see a wide range of conditions but my main focus is
- Gastro-intestinal conditions (IBS, Chron’s Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, Coeliac Disease, reflux etc.)
- Cancer (pre, post and during treatment)
- Weight Loss
- Healthy Eating and improved Energy Levels
- Disease Management (Cholesterol, Hypertension, Insulins Resistance, PCOS etc.)
- Food Allergies and Intolerances
- Pregnancy, Breastfeeding, Eating Disorders, Vegetarian Diets
I have also completed the Foundations in Nutrigenomics Course, which allows me to do DNA tests through DNAlysis (DNA Diet, Health, Sport & Oestrogen) and provide personalised diet and lifestyle recommendations, based on your results.
5. What do you enjoy most about your work?
I am passionate about health and nutrition, keeping up with latest dietary trends and nutrition and making a differences in my clients lives by providing them with inspiring knowledge, guidance and motivation to reach their health and wellness goals. I am a sociable person and a team player and am fortunate enough to have this in my work environment, working not only with a great team of dietitians, but also in a multidisciplinary wellness centre with many other health care specialists.
6. How do you personally keep fit and healthy?
I practice what I preach and follow a healthy and balanced approach. By preference I choose fresh, wholesome and healthy foods, but I never restrict myself completely and enjoy a glass of wine or chocolate in moderation. I implement good portion control, consistency and keep active. I completed the Comrades Marathon in 2013 and 2014 and running still remains my preferred exercise, however I include a range of other cardio and strength exercises.
7. Provide three nutrition tips for healthier living.
- Nourish and look after your body. Choose natural, unprocessed nutrient rich foods and cut out processed, refined and convenience foods.
- It is not an all or nothing approach. Balance, moderation, consistency and portion control are key.
- Get moving! Being fit and active offers so many benefits on overall health and weight management. Find an activity you enjoy, schedule it into your daily planner to get into routine and start to reap the rewards.