The FoodMinds upwaRD program is an industry-leading professional recognition and development program that elevates the voices of emerging nutrition communication leaders. This year’s winners were selected for their expertise in translating evidence-based nutrition recommendations into exciting, engaging, and accessible content in traditional and social media channels.
How did you become passionate about nutrition communications?
I notice that dietitians are not trained in marketing. Many of us do not know how to market nutrition science in a way that the public can understand and apply. However, many influencers who do not have our nutrition background are experts at marketing and storytelling. They know how to sell nutrition information and drive behavior change. The public needs trusted and credentialed nutrition professionals who can market nutrition. This is why I am passionate about nutrition communications.
What platform or medium do you think is especially powerful for nutrition education today and why?
It all depends on the target audience. For example, LinkedIn may be the preferred platform for sharing professional nutrition webinars and forums. Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook may be preferred when working with brands and commodity boards. They all have their uses and are equally powerful.
When you create your content, what personal rules or values help guide you?
Start with God – My Christian faith goes before me in how I breathe, talk, interact, and present myself every day. There’s no me without it.
Don’t code-switch. I am an articulate and well-rounded black man who speaks in a very relaxed and casual tone. No one can pressure me to act or sound like something I am not.
Finish with Authenticity. The only change worth making is a change for the better. I will remain authentic to my faith, values, and family and only change if it improves these things.
What kinds of messages are you passionate about sharing?
Messages about God, men’s health, metabolic health, general food/nutrition, fatherhood, husbandry, and traditional family values.
What types of brands or organizations do you get excited about working with?
Supplement brands, fatty fish brands, and brands who would want to explore ways that I can help them promote their product(s) to men/boys.
What is your favorite part of your job?
It depends on which job you’re talking about. I do so many different things, and that’s my favorite part about my work in general. Whether working with brands, writing content, counseling one-on-one, or developing recipes/menus, I love the different ways that I can work as a dietitian. It allows me to flex different parts of my brain and showcase my creativity!
What’s the food/beverage or nutrition trend that you’re loving right now?
High-protein foods. Now, I will say that not EVERYTHING needs to be high-protein. However, I do like the intention that people are putting towards meeting their protein needs. I also love the innovative ways people have created high-protein desserts. This is a great way to incorporate a nutrient that can help with blood sugar spikes, especially in desserts.
Favorite food?
Haitian pikliz is a spicy, pickled vegetable relish made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and onions and a kick of scotch bonnet or habanero pepper. I enjoy it because of its probiotic features and compatibility with just about any food. Traditionally, it’s eaten alongside other Haitian food, but I like to eat it with any sandwich/burger, fish/chicken, pasta, and many other foods.
Where can people find you?
Website: www.GregoryLafortune.com
IG: @menshealthdietitian https://www.instagram.com/menshealthdietitian/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregory-lafortune/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegregorylafortune