Ask the RD #4 - Andy De Santis

Today we chatted with Andy De Santis, RD, MPH

Hi Andy! Please tell us a little bit about yourself

I completed my schooling at the University of Toronto School Of Public Health. Outside of the world of nutrition my second greatest passion would be soccer. Watching, playing, speaking about it or all of the above. I also love dogs!

What made you decide to become a dietitian?

I was not in the best place health wise when I was younger and ultimately turned that around through embracing a better understanding of what I put in my body. Ever since then, I never considered another career.

What is your favorite part about being a dietitian?

Empowering others to take control of their health, without question!

What is your least favorite part about being a dietitian?

I'm not sure I have one, but sure it would be nice if the dietetic profession was better protected against other individuals providing unregulated nutrition guidance.

What does your average day look like?

A combination of speaking with clients, book/blog writing and social media.

What is something you know now that you wish you would have known as a student?

Just how far writing, blogging and social media could take my career.

Congrats on your newest book release! Was recipe development/writing cookbooks something you were interested in before becoming a dietitian? If not, how did you get into it?

Recipe development is not my strong suit, that's what recipe developers are for :) In all seriousness, I'm not great in the kitchen but the writing component of books is what I love the most. I've always loved writing and have been blogging for the past 5-6 years and written 5-6 books while I'm at it!

Now for some real talk - how do you come up with all of your jokes??

I feel as though my joke production has dropped off lately, but when coming up with jokes I usually dedicate 30 minutes of creative time and try to draw analogies between food trends and relatable real life topics, like relationships.

Do you have a message that you want to share with students?

Start blogging, start writing - it will make you a better professional and help your brand growth in the future.

Is there anything else you want students to know about you or what you do?

I have a writing mentorship service known as Kaleigraphy - If you want to break into the world of writing I can help! Andytherd.com/kaleigraphy/

Fun fact about yourself!

I eat kale 99% of the days of the year.

Where can students find you?

Online - Andytherd.com OR Instagram - @AndyTheRD

Thank you, Andy!

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