KFC, McDonald’s and Pies these were foods I used to eat a lot of growing up in the 90s when they were considered harmless treats for the children unfortunately by the time I was 9 years old I was obese! Resulting in constant bullying at school. I was called chunky, bulgy and fatso.

This really affected my self-esteem, I felt ugly and worthless and so I became a depressed kid. Until one day I decided I had enough and was no longer going to be that fat girl!

When I was just 12 years old, I decided to take my health into my own hands. I started reading nutrition books and made huge changes to my diet. I stopped eating all the fatty fast foods and started exercising every day.

The result: I lost 20kg in one year and I looked like a completely different person. Many of my friends didn’t even recognise me!

After my transformation, I was no longer bullied! I finally felt like a normal kid and became confident in who I am. The massive transformation both externally and internally, taught me I could do anything I set my mind to.

I realized the power of nutrition, not only on our physical health, but also how it can impact the way we feel about ourselves. I became passionate about helping other people who also struggled with low mood and low self-esteem due to weight issues. Since then, I have kept off the weight through healthy living, getting my DNA tested to fine tune my diet and regular exercise. I can honestly say that I love my body and who I have become because of my struggles.

This was the start of my strong passion for health and nutrition.

However, as an adult I still suffered with eczema, asthma, food intolerances and bouts of depression.

So, believe me I know what it feels like to not have the best of me to give – to my work, to my loved ones, or to really enjoying life.