Food As Medicine
Introducing Westbrook Nutrition
Words: Simon Paterson
Westbrook Nutrition is a new business to S40 Local. I'm excited because not only is it the first nutritional therapy business we've had in S40 Local, but it's also run by Paul's (S40 Local founder's) wife. Nicola Chapman is the driving force behind this business and we met up so I could find out more.
So, Nic what prompted you to start your nutritional therapy business?
"I had a number of digestive health issues in my 20s which really took their toll and I became interested in how foods, nutrients and lifestyle could make a difference to how I felt.
"I knew these were contributing factors and realised that what I ate, how I slept, stress, exercise and lifestyle all impacted how I felt."
When did you decide to take that interest further?
"About nine years ago, I decided I wanted to gain more knowledge, and be in a position to help others, so I decided to go back to university to study for a Postgraduate qualification in Nutritional Therapy.
"I studied part-time, alongside my day job, taking six years to complete my course and in 2024 I qualified and registered with the British Association for Nutrition and Lifestyle Medicine (BANT).
"Since I qualified I’ve supported a number of clients to improve their health, with face to face and online appointments. It's amazing to see how changes can make a genuine impact."
Is there such a thing as a typical client?
"Not really! I work with people with a really wide range of health concerns.
"I’ve supported people with diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol, and people taking medication for reflux and heartburn. I've worked with people experiencing digestive problems, IBS, menstrual problems, low energy, gallstones, gallbladder issues, including support after gallbladder removal, diverticulitis, constipation and people who have weight-loss goals. The list goes on!
"Although the reasons for seeking support vary, they generally have one thing in common: they’re ready to try something different.
"They know they want to make changes to their diet and lifestyle, but often don’t know where to start. There’s so much advice out there and it can be really confusing. I help people to find a way through the marketing, the health claims and the conflicting advice, getting back to basics, supporting them in their health goals.
"People want to know what they should actually be eating, they want a plan, practical support and someone to help them stay accountable.
"That’s what I’m trained to do."
What happens at the first appointment?
"Before the session you complete a comprehensive health questionnaire which includes a full medical history, signs and symptoms, medications and supplements. I review everything, look at identifying underlying causes and how we can address these with food, lifestyle and maybe supplement or testing recommendations.
"At the session we talk through what's happening, the options available and explore where you are and agree actions that feel manageable and appealing.
"We work with food preferences and how you live to find practical ways to make sustainable changes."
"If all you can manage that week is one small change, then that’s where we start. I work alongside you to work out what you want to achieve, why you want it and, most importantly, how we can get there step by step.
"For more complex health conditions or where there are multiple medications, we can work together on the 12-week programme, this gives the time, space and support to move forward and keep taking steps towards your goal.
"If you are wanting support and advice to improve your health, through nutrition or coaching, shorter programmes can work well."
"After a pre-diabetes diagnosis I felt scared and confused. Nicola listened, calmed my fears, and gave practical, gentle guidance I could follow at my own pace. I learned to rethink my eating, following our plan.
"Her supportive, non preachy approach has changed my lifestyle for the better. Thank you, Nicola."
Jane: Brookside
If I wanted to start improving my health, where should I begin?
"Everyone is different, but a really good place to start is by focusing on eating three good quality meals a day, increasing fibre, adding more vegetables and fruit, nuts and seeds, and choosing wholemeal rather than white carbohydrates. Focus on good-quality protein at each meal, add in healthy fats and making sure you're drinking enough fluids.
So, if you're reading and think Nicola might be able to help, she offers a 20-minute free call. Just message ‘HEALTH’ to 07793 380057 to arrange a time.
There’s no obligation – it’s an opportunity to have a chat, talk through what you are looking for and see whether nutritional therapy could be right for you.
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