Name of Business:
Nutrition and Lifestyle Pharmacist
www.nutritionlifestylepharmacist.co.uk
Who are you?
I am a Nutritional Therapist and the founder of my own practice, where I empower individuals to improve their health through nutrition and lifestyle changes. I live in Warrington with my wonderful husband and our gorgeous kitty, Tabitha. My passion for natural health and holistic well-being has been a driving force in my life, and I believe in the power of food as medicine. I love helping others uncover the root causes of their health issues and guiding them on their journey to wellness.
What sets you apart from the competition?
My unique combination of expertise as both a Nutritional Therapist and a registered Pharmacist, with over 20 years of NHS experience. I'm passionate about getting to the root causes of health issues using nutrition and lifestyle interventions. Alongside personalised one-to-one consultations, I also offer engaging workplace wellness talks and events, bringing practical health solutions to both individuals and organisations.
How did the business come about?
My business grew out of a lifelong passion for natural remedies and a deep understanding of both nutrition and medicine. Growing up in an Indian family, I learned the power of food and herbs in supporting the body through illness. This curiosity first led me to study pharmacy, where I gained insight into the origins of medicines derived from plants. After experiencing anxiety, stress, and hormone imbalances in my early thirties, I turned to natural health solutions, using nutrition, functional tests, and lifestyle changes to restore my wellbeing. My journey, combined with my career as a pharmacist, made me realise the limitations of conventional medicine in addressing root causes of health issues. This inspired me to create a practice that integrates both nutrition and lifestyle interventions to support overall health.
What are your main target markets?
My main target market includes adults with any health concerns, particularly those who have tried medications without success or want to explore more natural ways of restoring their health. Many health issues are often rooted in poor gut health, and with the NHS under pressure and long wait times for treatment, it’s the perfect time to turn to 'food as medicine.' While some think Nutritional Therapy is only for diabetes or weight loss, it can help with a wide range of conditions—from eczema and peri-menopause to fertility, IBS, heart disease, autoimmune conditions, anxiety, depression, and much more!
Additionally, I also work with workplaces looking to improve employee health through nutrition and lifestyle interventions, addressing issues like workplace stress and promoting overall well-being.
How long has your business been in existence?
I launched my Nutritional Therapy business in December 2023.
How many staff do you employ?
As a sole trader, I currently run the business on my own and do not employ any staff at the moment.
What job or achievement makes you most proud?
One of my proudest achievements is making a significant career move in my mid-40s by launching my Nutritional Therapy business from scratch, despite having no formal business studies or experience. Balancing this transition while working as a Pharmacist in local hospitals was challenging, but it allowed me to pursue my passion for natural health. I’m grateful for the opportunity to empower others to improve their well-being through nutrition and lifestyle changes, proving that it’s never too late to make a meaningful shift in your career.
Where do you see the business being in five years?
In five years, I envision my business thriving as part of a larger initiative, potentially employing others as part of a bigger clinic to reach even more people in need of nutritional support. I also hope to write a book that shares my insights and experiences, emphasising the importance of nutrition and lifestyle in overall health and wellness. Additionally, I see myself working alongside other complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) professionals to create a holistic approach to health. Ultimately, I hope to see the NHS collaborating with nutritional therapists and CAM practitioners to enhance preventative healthcare, integrating our services to support individuals in achieving optimal health.
Tell us one interesting thing about the business that might surprise us?
One interesting fact about my Nutritional Therapy business is that before I pursued a career in pharmacy, I initially wanted to study medical herbalism. At the time, only one university offered that course, so I opted for pharmacy instead. This decision reflects my long-standing interest and passion for alternative health. My journey into Nutritional Therapy was further fuelled by my own health challenges and a growing awareness of the increasing prevalence of processed foods, which have contributed to a rise in chronic health conditions over the years. This background has shaped my holistic approach to health and nutrition today.
Tell us one interesting thing about you that people might not know? (i.e. hobbies, amusing fact, etc)
I love traveling and have had the incredible opportunity to go on safari in three different African countries. Additionally, I took a year off from my Pharmacy career to pursue biblical studies and theology at a Bible College in Oxford. This unique experience enriched my perspective and has influenced my approach to health and well-being in unexpected ways.
Fantasy dinner party – which six people alive or dead would you invite?
Jesus, My Grandma, Henry Cloud, Christopher Wickland, Dr Caroline Leaf, Aamir Khan (actor).