Hi! Thanks for being here.
I’m Samara Ohm (she/her), the face behind Ohm Nutrition. I was born and raised in Fernie. My love for food started young, fuelled by homemade and homegrown meals thanks to my Mom and her effortless cooking and gardening.
Back in Mrs. Gietz’ home economic class at Fernie Secondary learning about nutrition science, I asked her if there was a related profession, “yes” she answered, “a Registered Dietitian.” I was sold.
From there I completed a Bachelors of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics at Acadia University and Masters of Science in Applied Human Nutrition through Mount Saint Vincent University in Halifax. After 10 years on the East Coast I decided to return to the mountains with my now husband (a typical Ontarian, jumping on the opportunity to move to BC).
Now, as a registered dietitian, I am excited to connect with residents in the Elk Valley and offer nutrition counselling.
I really love the diversity of the profession. My education and experience ranges from cardiac critical care and chronic disease management to food security and qualitative research. I have worked as an outpatient and cardiac rehab dietitian with Interior Health Authority, and in chronic disease and weight management with the Bariatric Medical Institute based in Ottawa. I also currently work with a small remote based company which specializes in nutrition counselling and behaviour change to support chronic disease and weight management.
When I’m not working you can find me teaching classes at Soar Studios, cooking (and dancing) at home, or out for walks, river dips, bike rides…typical Fernie stuff in a more leisurely fashion :)
My Approach
I believe an effective approach to nutrition counselling is grounded in evidence-based science while respecting the context in which nutrition care is being provided and centring the individual and their story.
Connect
While eating may be a seemingly simple practice, it is a truly complex, intimate and unique experience for each person. Nutrition is my wheelhouse, but supporting individuals to improve their health is a little more involved. I engage in ongoing cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) training with a clinical psychologist and 1:1 supervision with a lead dietitian to inform and improve my counselling approach and clinical knowledge.
Support
You may feel you know what you need to do, but putting knowledge into action is the challenge. Just like any new habit, it may take some time to experiment, practice and find your groove. I am continually building my understanding of what actually works when it comes to behaviour change. Together we will collaborate on building habits that are practical and align with your personal circumstances.
Simplify
Nutrition science is ever changing, as are nutrition trends. Honestly, It’s wild out there when it comes to nutrition and wellness (mis)information. It can be overwhelming to navigate, especially if you are trying to foster a positive relationship with food and your body. I hope to simplify nutrition and remove the dichotomy and moralization from food choice. All foods can fit into a healthy, balanced diet.