Talking Straight with Clinical Nutritionist, Jennalea McInnes

This month on Talking Straight, we chat to Clinical Nutritionist, Jennalea McInnes.

Specialising in women's health, gut health and holistic wellbeing, Jennalea brings a refreshingly practical and engaging approach to nutrition - helping individuals cut through wellness fads to make informed, sustainable health choices that enhance energy, productivity and performance.

We've had the pleasure of working with Jennalea as a spokesperson for our client, Sodii for various Media opportunities, where she talks to topics including the importance of hydration, particularly for female and reproductive health. Let's get straight into it!

Tell us about yourself and what you do for work and why? 

I am a mother of two small children who works for herself as a Clinical Nutritionist. I also have been a Yoga teacher for the last 12 years! I am very passionate about movement and health. I have my certificate in level 1 free diving, I roller skate, dance, I am an avid Crossfitter. I love being a part of health-conscious communities and supporting other people with their goals. I became a Nutritionist because I had a life changing experience after seeing one myself and couldn't believe how good I felt - by healing my body with food, supplements and lifestyle. I was on my way to uni to study Psychology and did a quick pivot to Health Sciences. And now, everyday I get to work with women improving their health and create healthy babies. 

What do you love about the health industry?

Providing the tools and education for people to positively transform their lives. It provides people with an alternative when they need more (time/resources/offerings) to best support their personal predicament. 

What is something you wish you could change about the health industry?

There is a lot of misinformation out there and lack of regulation within some parts of the industry. I really appreciate the rigorous science and often within this industry, there are businesses profiting off lack of evidence based practices which can be really just taking vulnerable people for a ride.

What does “being healthy” mean to you? 

Being healthy means your body is thriving, your mind is sharp. You feel good with a sustained flow of energy throughout your day without relying on substances and stimulants to get your energy up and your body's functions are working optimally. "Healthy" is not just about the body but the mind - feeding the mind as much as the body and not feeling as though you have to be "perfect" with your diet to be healthy. Balance is so important.

What trends are you predicting for the health industry this year? 

More understanding of the importance of Nitric Oxide for sexual and cardiovascular health, performance and longevity.  More people are taking creatine monohydrate for mental health gains. Less fasting, more circadian rhythm eating (TRE). Less low carb diets and more active people upping their carb intake!!

What’s something that you would tell your younger self? 

Don't train fasted!

Do your Masters before kids (why didn't I!)

Stay on the path - never stop doing what you're doing.

If you had to retrain again and not do what you’re doing right now, what would you do? 

I would do Dietetics (ha, this is the upcoming Masters...) Honestly, I knew from a young age I was going to work with "food"... Otherwise, psychology, which is so tied in with nutrition.

Complete the following quick-fire sentences:

On the weekend you’ll find me... at the gym, yoga studio, skate park with the kiddos and Woolies (!)

I can’t live without... eggs

My go-to coffee shop order is... oat milk weak latte or decaf

If I were a fruit, I would be... blueberries

My favourite way to sweat is... OLY lifting and gymnastics

An inspiring quote that sums me up is... "walk through the fire of self discovery. This fire will not burn you, only what you are not" (Mooji)

If I could go on any TV show I would go on... MasterChef (as a taster)

Visit www.jennaleamcinnes.com and follow Jennalea on Instagram!