Charlotte, Leamington Spa
I contacted Karen due to having severe eczema and I had tried everything and nothing had worked.
Karen supported me for many months with my diet, supplements and lifestyle changes. My skin is now perfect and I never thought I would have been in a place where my skin no longer rules my life!
Karen was always positive and supportive and I couldn’t of done it without her. Highly recommend Karen at Meraki Nutrition!!
Siobhan, Walsall
After multiple steroid creams and many courses of antibiotics the doctors only advice was go back on the pill, and lose weight for my low mood – but I was offered no support on how!
I was in the darkest place I’ve ever been before working with Karen Ward at Meraki. I even said to myself this is my final idea of what to do.
How I wish it was the first thing I tried, I’d have missed out on 2 years of depression, weight gain and pain from my skin.
It’s been tough with how fussy an eater I am but Karen was understanding and not judgmental in my weird eating habits or hang ups. I have learnt much more than just “diet”, it’s a life style change that’s manageable and most importantly for me realistic.
I sleep better than ever, I’ve lost over a stone, my brain fog is finally lifting and my skin is finally pain free again all from the education and support of Karen.
I can’t thank you enough
AJ, Birmingham
Amy was a brilliant listener, supported me throughout my entire plan, even on the days where I didn’t have a call scheduled! I feel better in myself knowing that the weight that has previously been “impossible” to shift, began shifting whilst on the plan with Amy – it gives me confidence that it is possible.
I ACTUALLY EAT BROCCOLI NOW! I have definitely changed eating habits in the sense that I have alot more freshly cooked foods, more greens (which I never really ate) and I’m focused not so much on the number on the scale, but more my body composition and most importantly, my internal health.
My water intake everyday is at least 3L without fail. I’m more conscious about what I’m eating in a day – even when going for the cheeky treat, I ask myself, is it worth setting back my own progress for short term gain!?
I have maintained the same weight (and not gained anything) since the plan with Amy ended, though I need to push myself further and lose abit more on my own by staying accountable to myself.
It has been a pleasure working with Amy! I am beyond happy to give credit where it’s due – without Amy’s guidance and extensive knowledge, I would have stayed giving up trying to lose weight but now I am focused on living a better, healthier lifestyle alongside hitting my weight loss goals!
Helen, Sheffield
Karen is incredibly thorough and very intuitive in her work. She is always very caring , calming and professional and I have recommended her to several of my friends!
Lyn, Rugby
For the first time I was able to honestly say how I was feeling without the thought that I was being judged. That has been priceless.
I have thoroughly enjoyed my journey and know I will continue to grow as a result of the support and knowledge passed on during the last 12 weeks.
I can’t believe how different I feel as a result. I am full of energy, my mindset has changed and I have lost a good few inches and pounds along the way.
The overall feeling I have knowing that my health has improved is the most important thing and I feel awesome. Thank you for everything Amy, I really appreciate your time and support.
Natasha, Leamington Spa
I came to Meraki Nutrition because I realised that something wasn’t really quite right with my digestion and also wondering what I was doing wrong in terms of weight loss. We know that medicine as a whole isn’t really geared at anyone from an ethnic minority and it’s very one size fits all.
Thankfully this isn’t the approach that Meraki Nutrition takes and Karen went through everything with me step-by-step. And not just food BUT everything in my life – key events in the last few years, any specific traumas – this helped Karen to understand my life, my personality and also, actually just me in general.
What I’ve genuinely appreciated is the holistic approach to nutrition insofar that *everything* is connected. For instance – I have therapy and my sessions are tough and afterwards I used to always crave chocolate or a biscuit coz it’s tough right? BUT Karen explained *why* this was happening and now I just take a breath, make sure I have water nearby (or a cup of tea). Once I understood they *why* it was easy to *not*! All explained in a super accessible non-jargon-y way, not like some medical professionals. 😉
Karen also helped unpack some of my harmful food behaviours from when I was younger and helped me to realise that I don’t need to do those anymore (Food Therapist anyone?!)
So what have I achieved? I signed up for the 3 months option which was perfect for me. This meant that I had weekly check-ins with Karen, I was able to reach out to her anytime and I also did Food Diaries every week. I know it sounds like a lot but having the accountability has helped keep me on track and also to really pay attention to what’s happening to my body. Specifically my poo! (We spend a lot of time talking about poo) And I also had some blood tests done which helped contribute to some of my action points in my plan. (The more information, the better your results will be!)
In 12 weeks I have lost 8kg, and many many centimetres from my waist and hips. Aesthetics are *great* BUT, I don’t feel bloated anymore, I barely fart (apart from after a curry) and my relationship with food has completely changed. I also sleep well and if I do have a cheeky bit of cake/chocolate/biscuits/crisps I save myself for the *good* stuff and not just mindlessly stuffing my face ‘because it’s there’.
I never thought I would be the type of person that would go to a nutritionist (and I have acupuncture!) BUT it’s been the *best decision* I’ve made this Pandemic Year.
Cathie, Warwick
Karen is not only knowledgeable but inspirational too.
Karen is a great listener and will see through the chaos to focus on the true root of the problem. I was feeling down with my fibromyalgia and not being able to lose those extra pounds. In just a few weeks, Karen’s advice and encouragement has turned my life around in so many ways.
Karen, I cannot thank you enough for what you have done for me.
Mohinder, Birmingham
I feel my mother is finally getting somewhere with her health after a great number of years. The service we have had has been very professional and personalised and Amy is always on hand for any queries we have had outside of our appointments.
She takes a great deal of time and care to explain things thoroughly and provides an indepth explanation for every course of action taken.
Danny, Birmingham
I always thought just going to the gym alone was good for health, until I met with Amy who opened my eyes to some of the pitfalls and mistakes I was making around nutrition. I’d been training like an athlete but not fuelling myself like one.
Amy guided me on my nutrition choices, and put me on the right track. I can honestly say my training results have gone from strength to strength.
Julie, Birmingham
When I first approached Meraki for help I was feeling nervous, sceptical but willing to try anything as I was so desperate, in so much pain, and taking so much medication I rattled!I was diagnosed by my doctor with Fibromyalgia 8 years ago, not long after my 40th Birthday and came to see Karen after a severe reaction to the antidepressants my doctor had given me for nerve pain.During the consultation process I felt completely listened too.
Karen understood all of my symptoms. I’ve been continually supported throughout my journey, she is full of great ideas, suggestions to tweak my diet, supplements to take etc. And ….. she’s a thoroughly lovely person too!I won’t say its been easy – for me food was the one thing that I used to seek comfort from. Having to massively change my diet has been tough but I knew I was doing it for the right reasons.I can’t believe the difference this has made to me in such as short space of time.
The blood test I did with Karen showed I had 80% inflammation in my body.I now have 90% less pain. I’m still only part way through my journey so I still have some healing to do. When I set out to do this I said if it gave me 50% reduction in pain, then it would be worth it. So far I have benefited so much more than 50%.
I’ve noticed simple things – being able to walk without getting out of breath or having palpitations or pain! I’ve started to use the stairs when out and about rather than the lift, and I’m even keeping up with my partner now, and having to coax him to walk a bit more with me. My brain is far more alert and I have no more brain fog. I have far more energy than I used to and actually looking into getting a pushbike!I eat far less than I used to as I’m not hungry (15lbs lost and 5” from waist and hips so far!) My hormones are getting back to normal and no more PMT! I’m not depressed or anxious. People have commented on how much brighter I seem and how good my complexion is looking now. The horrible bags (which I called suitcases) under my eyes have gone.
Mo, Birmingham
I found Amy so easy to talk to. She listens, takes the time to explain what might be going on, and then provides different solutions that are to do. I really appreciated her straight forward, down to earth manner.
Jacqui, Coventry
I came to see Karen recognising that my health and wellbeing were suffering significantly due to poor diet and high levels of stress relating to my job. I was constantly tired, bloated, suffering headaches, low emotionally and I realised I needed some help to get myself well.
Karen supported me throughout, giving me encouragement when I needed it and options when I was being picky about what I would and wouldn’t eat. She gave me the confidence to try new things and to believe that my health could be different.
I took the big step of getting the FDX test and seeing the results really reinforced the fact that I needed help. And that if I did nothing… I was on my way to much more serious health problems. I am so glad I had them done – I need that constant reminder of what I don’t want to go back to.
I have completely changed my diet – and it has transformed how I feel and how I cope. Karen’s encouragement and guidance has helped me feel better and also given me the strength to change much more than what I eat. I’ve found the courage to take the biggest step and change my job for the benefit of my wellbeing. I don’t think I realised what I was doing to myself until I worked with Karen.
I thoroughly recommend Meraki to anyone who knows they need to change what they are putting in their bodies for their wellbeing. I really don’t know what I would be feeling like if I hadn’t taken that step.
Kerry, Birmingham
I’m so grateful to Amy for helping figure out the cause of my baby’s constipation. Some simple tips and advice resolved the issues almost immediately.
Lisa, Coventry
When I approached Karen I’d been feeling unhappy with how I felt about myself and the slimming club plan I was following. It just wasn’t working for me.
Having read the Meraki website and looking at their social media, I was confident that they could help me improve my nutrition and help me achieve my goals. At the initial consultation Karen explained what was happening in my body based on the plan I was currently following, and how by changing my approach to food and nutrition I could improve my wellbeing, as well as achieve fat & weight loss.
I put my faith in Karen and I am so glad I did. After the first two weeks I felt liberated being able to eat the foods I like and I also felt better in my wellbeing and had a lot more energy. By week three I was back into clothes which I could not fit into for two years!
Karen was always on hand with support, I sent my weekly meal plans to check that I was on track, and tracked my macronutrients using an easy app – she also suggested books that explain nutrition and include recipe ideas.
I am so glad that I contacted Karen and made the change to my nutrition – I would describe the way I eat now as quality over quantity and I can see that this is sustainable. I would certainly recommend others to take the same steps if you are looking to better understand nutrition as well as to achieve fat & weight loss.
Alison, Milton Keynes
Anne, Solihull
I began to suffer with IBS after my Hysterectomy in 1998. Eating would trigger unbearable abdominal cramps and I often found myself rushing to the toilet. Going out anywhere was a nightmare, sometimes it was easier to stop in. Life was very stressful.
After consulting with doctors, nothing they advised or gave me worked, so I did some research of my own on the benefits of seeing a qualified nutritionist and decided to give it a go. I came across Karen and Amy at Meraki Nutrition and made an appointment, which I can honestly say was was one of the best decisions of my life.
I was so impressed by Amy’s approach to me as a whole person, not just the short term symptom management. She provided information on how important a healthy digestive system is to the overall health of my entire body along with a plan that was easy to follow and not overwhelming.
I have my life back after 20 long years suffering with IBS and I now go out with friends, even for dinner.
If you are suffering with symptoms of IBS I wholeheartedly recommend seeing these ladies – they really know their stuff!
Denise, Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council
Since our recent wellbeing week, I have been receiving some lovely feedback from the team.
The presentations followed by the one to one drop in clinic were really supportive to people. Team members have reflected and reviewed their own lifestyle, and considered the alternatives you discussed to ensure they are living the best healthy version of themselves possible. Colleagues have made swaps in their shopping baskets opting for tasty healthy alternatives and are really enjoying it!
This is week three since our well being week and some colleagues are looking visually well with a radiance about them. Some have even benefited from a small weight loss. They are claiming it’s all about the new sprouting venture in addition to healthy choices!!
The well being week will be a regular event now for our team, so no doubt we will be inviting Meraki Nutrition in again ensuring those that missed out have the same wonderful opportunity.
I hope other organisations embrace and invest in opportunities like this. It supports having a healthier happier workforce with reduced sickness levels. My advice if you’re reading this it to “Go for it and enjoy”.
Melissa, Sutton Coldfield
“I recently met Karen and asked her to help me improve my general health, wellbeing and energy levels. After the honest completion of a medical questionnaire, Karen spent time considering my diet, lifestyle and fitness levels.
The result was an in-depth, one to one session, which addressed my lifestyle, stress levels, diet and exercise plan with amazing results. I now have a personal eating plan, which has helped me understand the benefits of eating well, cooking from scratch and eliminating key foods.
I have also reduced my stress levels, made time for me and my wellbeing and am exercising in a different way – using yoga.
After only 2 weeks, I am feeling calmer, eating better – (am never hungry) have more energy and have lost 7 lbs in weight. I couldn’t be happier with the results and am in keeping in touch with Karen – who is always available with answers to questions and recommended books, recipes etc.
I highly recommend you use Karen, who is personable, fun and realistic – this has genuinely changed my habits and attitude to food for good – put yourself first for once!”
Martin, Birmingham
“Thank you Amy for such a professional response to my nutritional issues. I really liked the way you provided all the information I needed with further explanations on things I was unsure of. The detail in the plan is fantastic!
I feel enthused as a result of your feedback and understanding nature and I’m looking forward to my new lifestyle. Having started the plan I am enjoying the changes and already feeling better. Thank you, I would definitely recommend your service to other people.”
Parveen, Leamington Spa
“Thank you Karen for an amazing outlook on nutrition, it’s exactly what I needed as a vegetarian who wanted to increase on protein and overall diet.
Not only are you passionate about what you do but you’re realistic. I love the fact that you still continue to have a full dialogue with me even after the “initial consultation”. I can’t recommend your services enough. Thank you!!”
Tracey, Peterborough
“I was feeling tired and lethargic and convinced that it was down to low iron levels. Karen was very approachable and I was confident that she was knowledgeable. She wrote to my GP to ask for blood tests. The results showed that I was not iron deficient.
Karen recommended changes to my diet and some supplements. I felt the benefits almost immediately! I had lots more energy and I enjoyed the recommended foods and meals. Karen had ensured that she knew what my goals were and my food preferences.
I hadn’t mentioned to Karen that I also had an issue with photosensitivity and stinging eyes. To my amazement this issue also cleared up with the changes to my diet! I have stuck to the eating plan and the changes have been easy to adapt to. I would thoroughly recommend Karen.”
Charlotte, Buckingham
“Earlier this year I was suddenly taken ill, and the result was the removal of my gallbladder. At the time I was completely unaware of the role of the gallbladder and being a bit of a foodie who could eat absolutely anything, I suddenly felt lost as to what I should be eating or avoiding, it was all very stressful.
I can honestly say Karen was my saviour, I swiftly had an information sheet explaining the role of the gallbladder, what the effects of the removal would be, and a step-by-step food guide to help my body cope with the change. It was so very simple and easy to follow. The stress of my situation quickly evaporated and very soon I began to feel healthier. There is no doubt that this was due to Karen’s advice.
The overall impact 6 months later has been amazing. Loosing your gallbladder results in a bit of weight loss, but following Karen’s healthy food lists I have now lost 2 and a half stone and feel amazing. Karen was friendly, professional, patient, put me completely at ease. I wouldn’t hesitate for a second in recommending Karen, she will be my first call again in the future without a doubt!”
Angad, Birmingham
“I came to see Amy as I needed assistance with my supplementation. As a strength competitor working towards UKBFF Championships, my body can go through a lot of pressure on internal organs and joints. My joints were inflamed when I came to see Amy, and I felt I was carrying a lot of heat in the body.
Amy assessed my diet and advised supplements that would encourage a speedy recovery. I was very satisfied with the process and appreciated that my goals were supported throughout the consultation.
After consultation I found that the plan I was given was very manageable and easy to adapt to. I would definitely recommend Amy to people in my sport.”
Gary, Birmingham
“I contacted Amy for some general advice and guidance on maximising wellness. I was feeling sluggish, lethargic, and confused about nutrition and health.
Amy made me feel at ease and the plan was easy to follow. The changes in lifestyle and supplement recommendations that Amy recommended had a significant effect within just 2 weeks, which I found really motivating
I was provided with scientific research to support the recommendations and I really appreciated the hand outs and information I was given to take away which supported the already detailed explanations.
Amy was so welcoming and knowledgeable, I felt instantly relaxed and it all felt so very easy. I would definitely recommend making an appointment with Amy if you want to make some dietary changes, or just have a review and general well being check.”