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.
Today, we hear from Maria Sylvester Terry, a 2024 upwaRD winner!
When you create your content, what personal rules or values help guide you?
I have a few principles from my former teaching days that still guide me in my new career: Is it clear? Is it kind? Does it offer a clear next step? My personal rule for myself is to remember that, even if I worry that what I have to say isn’t enough in some way, I am the only one who will say it like me. And that in itself is special and worth sharing!
What kinds of messages are you passionate about sharing?
I am eager to share messages that meet people when they’re in a stuck place: decision fatigued, overwhelmed, stressed, or unsure of what to do. I particularly love helping people challenge an all-or-nothing mentality with food and exercise.
I find that compassionate ‘big sis dietitian’ messaging can serve as a guide without sounding prescriptive and help normalize not always knowing everything. We’re all learning, messing up, and trying again!
What’s the nutrition question you hear most often from your clients or followers?
“Do I really need to eat that much protein?” My social media following as well as my private practice clientele are mostly active folks who learned about nutrition from a weight loss/dieting lens. They’re ready to start fueling with intention and less stress but… what does that even look like? It can feel like the ‘protein hype’ is aligned with fad diets.
The reality is that active folks in their 30s, 40s and beyond have a unique opportunity to support their metabolic health by building and caring for their muscle mass. And, while that doesn’t mean only eating protein, it does make protein important!
What’s the food/beverage or nutrition trend that you’re loving right now?
Let’s hear it for the nuts, seeds, and legumes! I am loving the portable snacks with nuts and seeds that are available in tasty flavors, mixes, and clusters. Roasted edamame and chickpeas are also a delightful shift for snacking.
Nuts and seeds are packed with nutrition, and I love seeing them become an accessible snack for busy adults and families.
What is your favorite part of your job?
I talk about food like actors in a movie or characters in a book. “You won’t believe what pistachios can do!” “Did you know this thing about kiwi?” Teaching folks about food in a way that evokes childlike joy. Absolutely the best part of my job. And, better yet, it helps them stick to their goals!
Where can people find you?
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: https://links.mariaterrynutrition.com/
Instagram: @vitamin_ri
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/mariasylvesterterry