In today's world of social media and junk food, we're constantly bombarded with information about various "superfoods" & new diet regimes that claim to solve all problems magically. But they rarely deliver what they promise. Nutrition science is extremely complicated and our understanding of the effect of foods on our bodies is still evolving. Hence many learned experts opine that a diet consisting of a variety of natural foods that people have been consuming for generations is the sustainable way to a healthier life.  A prominent name among these is Dnyanada Chitale-Pusalkar, a Dietitian with 16 years (and 100,000+ patients!) of experience. Dnyanada has established her brand "Nutrition Clinic" which reflects her ethos of health & happiness to bring her clients results beyond mere numbers.

In conversation with Women Entrepreneur, Dnyanada talks about her journey of being a Nutritionist who helps her clients choose natural foods ensuring that they get all the micronutrients their bodies need, including those that may not be even named yet.

Tell Us About Your Journey, What Motivated You To Venture Into The Field Of Nutrition? What Was The Driving Philosophy Or Idea Behind Nutrition Clinic?

During my graduation, I'd pursued a diploma course in Naturopathy. That piqued my interest in using food to heal and the effects changes in food can cause on our bodies. That is why I decided to study Nutrition in my Post graduation. I enjoyed studying Nutrition and even managed to top the state in my Post-Graduate program.

After passing out, I was attached to hospitals/gyms as a dietitian for a few months, but I felt I would be able to do more with my own practice. At that time, there were very few dietitians practising on their own, and a fresh graduate doing this was almost unheard of. However, my parents had the conviction that I'd be able to do this, and they went out of the way to help me start my private clinic. The driving philosophy was always to make nutritional guidance meaningful, simple & easy to follow for everyone and to tailor it to suit their schedules & tastes.

What Are Some Important Features Of Your Expertise As A Leading Dietitian?

My diet advice involves only regular, local, home-cooked foods that are aligned with the client's food habits. I've handled cases for professional sportspeople, hospitalized patients, comatose patients, tube-fed patients, pregnant women, new mothers, young kids, hormone issues & even psychiatric issues. In addition, I'm frequently referred by multiple specialist doctors in Pune for their patients for specific issues, or pre & post surgery help.

“Nutrition was a small field when I started out, but I pursued it as I could add real value to people's lives. Simply trying my best to help people has got me this far.”

For the last three years, I've started my food brand Rustik Paushtiq under which we're manufacturing foods (all-natural & organic) like flour mixes & healthy snacks. All of the manufacturing is done by us & under strict observation, ensuring that my clients get the best possible nutritive value from these. It has achieved phenomenal success & is now highly in-demand & sought all over the world.

“Pursue things that you are genuinely interested in, rather than trying to take up what is in vogue”

As A Dietitian What Are Some Significant Challenges That You Have Had To Face?

During my initial years, it was difficult to convince people that expert diet advice could make a significant improvement in their lives. Most people assumed dietitians were only for weight loss and were unaware that a good diet can improve one's quality of life. Also, convincing people that there are no shortcuts to good health was at times challenging.

As A Successful Business Leader, What Advice Would You Present To Young Women And Girls?

Pursue things that you are genuinely interested in, rather than trying to take up what is in vogue. Don't fixate on money or fame but be fully committed to doing great work, and to keep exploring & trying ideas.

Dietitian Dnyanada Chitale-Pusalkar, Founder, Nutrition Clinic

Dnyanada Chitale-Pusalkar is one of the leading Dietitians in Pune. She is a postgraduate in Dietetics. She was the state topper in her Post-Graduate Program (Nutrition & Dietetics). She is the founder of Nutrition Clinic, her consultation brand, and Rustik Paushtiq a health food brand. She also offers online consultations to clients world over. She has been featured in multiple media outlets including Zee Marathi, Radio Mirchi, Vividh Bharati, StoryTel & Many more.