Partner Spotlight: Christy Smith

This blog is part of a series that will introduce you to Northeast Indiana health and wellness practitioners. Get to know Christy Smith of Christy Smith Nutrition.

1) What inspired you to get into nutrition/wellness?

I have an autoimmune disease (Hashimotos Thyroiditis) and struggled with weight gain. After going through a wellness program for that, and seeing many of the other clients healing diseases simply by changing their foods, I knew I wanted to help people heal in that way as well.

2) Who’s your ideal or typical client?

Someone who is committed to healing and feeling as good as possible. I don't like to focus on weight loss as a primary goal, so I love when someone is focused on getting well and ditching the diet mentality.

3) What’s a common myth or misperception about nutrition you’d like to debunk?

That there's only one way to be healthy. I've learned through trial and error that there are as many ways to achieve health as there are people. It's fun trying to find the best, longest-lasting solution for my clients and rewarding when they actually enjoy it.

4) How would you describe your motto or philosophy around nutrition?

Oh boy, I am not a typical nutritionist. I sort of get angry at the stereotype of the yoga-thin body drinking green juices all day and existing on air and kale. I enjoy fruity pebbles on occasion and believe true health is found in that balance. The word balance is probably overused when it comes to health and moderation but it's so true. Give me onion rings on occasion and I'm a happy girl. Being happy and content, not restricted and angry, is also part of a healthy diet. ;)

5) What do you like to do for fun?

I like to do anything in nature. Kayaking, hiking, walking, just sitting outside and enjoying some hot tea with a book. I also love being creative and am learning how to use watercolors. My two boys and golden retriever, Charlie, keep me busy and laughing, too.

6) How can someone work with you?

By starting at my website and checking out the services I offer. They can reach out after that to schedule a quick discovery call, or go ahead and schedule right on the site. I have services for a variety of needs from reducing inflammation to general nutrition counseling to help with GLP1s, like Ozempic and Mounjaro and more.

7) What’s a random fact about you?

I was absolutely terrified of whales (humpback specifically) between the ages of 21 and 41. Literally had to fast forward the part in Nemo where Dori talks like a whale (sorry kids, it wasn't a scratch in the DVD!). But I went to an energy healer/shaman lady and long story short, it cured me. I can actually watch, and enjoy, whale videos and sounds now.

Got Three Minutes? You've Got Time to Workout

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What’s your relationship with movement? It’s easy to fall into an “all-or-nothing trap.” What good is a workout if it’s not at least an hour or you’re not dripping in sweat at the end? What if I told you that “workout snacks” could enhance your quality of life and overall fitness?

Don’t discount the power of burst training when you're low on time. Here are a few real-life examples:

• Do 10 burpees

• Run around the yard with your dog

• Play a game of tag with your kid

• Take the stairs

• Have an impromptu dance party between Zoom calls

• Jump rope to failure

And now for the million-dollar question: how much do you need to exert yourself to get results? If you can speak comfortably but can’t quite carry a tune, that's considered "moderate." If you can only speak a few words, or none at all, that's how you know you've hit the “vigorous” territory.

Not up for something that gets your heart racing? That’s OK. An abbreviated and toned-down workout still promotes cardiac health.

Interested in learning more about how fitness can fit into your life? Contact me for a free consultation.

What does it take to live past 95?

My grandmother Christianne turned 95 on Saturday.  Despite some health complications this year, she’s still very healthy. In fact, I believe there’s a lot to be learned from her lifestyle. In my observations and conversations with her, here’s how and why she’s lived to be a nonagenarian.

Diet— She eats balanced meals and has for some time. She typically eats a salad with lunch and/or dinner and enjoys lean proteins, dairy, etc. She doesn’t eat between meals. However, she’s not afraid to enjoy dessert and a glass of wine (or champagne) every now and then. (She’s French, after all.) In short, she practices moderation.

Movement — She’s always on the go. When she was younger, she played tennis nearly every day. She still swims and does tai chi to help her balance. She seldom sits down for a significant amount of time. Every when she does, she’s doing something! She knits while watching TV.

Mental Stimulation — She makes a point to stay sharp. She does a crossword puzzle every day and there’s always a book on her nightstand. She also has kept up her French, despite living in this country for nearly 75 years. She even learned how to use chopsticks last year (see photo below).

Community — She’s a social creature despite living alone for 27 years. She sings in the choir, attends bible study and takes part in activities and excursions in her community as part of a senior group. I can’t keep track of all her friends!

Spirituality/Sense of Purpose — She considers herself a devout Catholic, attending Mass and functions at her church on the regular. She would tell you her faith has gotten her through some rough times. 

It’s possible to slow down the aging process, if you’re intentional. What’s one healthy habit you want to work on as we enter the holiday season?