5 minute read
Nikisha Shetye
Nikisha Shetye, a native of Ponda, Goa, has carved a name for herself in the field of nutrition and dietetics. Born and raised in Ponda, Nikisha’s love for travel and gardening has always been a source of joy and inspiration for her. Now happily married for 2.5 years and living with her husband and inlaws, she balances her personal and professional life with skill and hard work.
The Birth of Diet Diaries by Nikisha Shetye
Nikisha’s journey in the world of nutrition began with the inauguration of her clinic, Diet Diaries by Nikisha Shetye, on June 26, 2022, in Ponda. This clinic stands as a testament to her commitment and passion for promoting healthy living. Alongside managing her clinic, Nikisha also consults at Wisdom Hospital and Swastik Hospital, and is associated with a health clinic named Svay in Panjim.
Early Inspirations and Academic Pursuits
From a young age, Nikisha aspired to join the medical field. It was a cousin who introduced her to the fascinating world of nutrition. This newfound interest led her to pursue a Bachelor’s degree from Goa College of Home Science. Eager to deepen her knowledge, she moved to Pune to complete her MSc in Clinical Nutrition from Symbiosis Institute of Health Science. During this period, she also undertook a Diabetes Educator course in Mumbai, travelling monthly to the city. Further Increasing her expertise, Nikisha became a certified Sports Nutritionist from ASNFS and a Lactation Counsellor from BPNI in Coimbatore.
Professional Milestones and Experience
Since earning her Master’s degree in 2016, Nikisha has been dedicated to her profession as a dietitian. Initially, she worked as a freelancer and collaborated with various companies. Her experience also includes giving talks at schools and industries. Over the years, she has gained significant experience in managing conditions like PCOS, diabetes, and weight management.
Philosophy and Approach to Nutrition
Nikisha’s approach to nutrition is grounded in the belief that slow and steady changes lead to sustainable results. She Focuses on the importance of habits that patients can maintain for life. Recognizing that most of her patients are of Goan origin, she provides diet plans that are easy to follow and culturally appropriate. Nikisha strongly opposes quickfix solutions and fad diets, advocating instead for gradual, lasting changes.
Addressing Misconceptions and Promoting Realistic Goals
One of the common misconceptions Nikisha faces is the belief that excessive exercise or extreme dietary changes are important for weight loss and blood sugar control. She educates her patients on the importance of balanced nutrition and realistic goal-setting. Nikisha stresses that No food is naturally good or bad, but it’s about making mindful choices and understanding the role of each food in a balanced diet.
Individualised and Customised Diet Plans
Nikisha’s diet plans are highly individualised, taking into account each patient’s lifestyle, occupation, religion, and place of residence. She assesses body fat percentage and diet history to create personalised plans. Nikisha understands that drastic changes are not sustainable, and therefore, she recommends gradual adjustments that patients can stick to long-term.
Overcoming Challenges and Setting Realistic Expectations
A significant challenge in the field of nutrition is managing patients’ expectations. Nikisha advises her clients to focus on small, achievable goals rather than aiming for big results. She focuses on consistency and reminds her patients to celebrate their progress, no matter how small. This approach helps in maintaining motivation and ensuring long-term success.
Exercise Strategies Tailored to Individual Preferences
When it comes to exercise, Nikisha believes in personalizing strategies to individual preferences. She advises her clients to choose routines they enjoy and can sustain. By incorporating personal preferences and periodically adjusting workout intensity, Nikisha ensures her clients remain motivated and committed to their fitness goals.
The Future of Nutrition: Embracing Nutrigenomics
Looking ahead, Nikisha sees nutrigenomics playing a important role in the field of nutrition. This emerging science offers knowledge into how individual genetic makeup affects nutrient metabolism. By using nutrigenomics, nutrition plans can be further customised, leading to better health outcomes for patients.
Advice for Aspiring Nutritionists
To those aspiring to enter the field of nutrition, Nikisha offers valuable advice: never stop learning. Specialising in a particular area and staying updated with the latest research is crucial. She encourages collaboration over competition, emphasising the importance of working together for the betterment of the profession.
Conclusion
Nikisha Shetye’s journey is a remarkable example of passion, perseverance, and dedication. From her early aspirations to her current achievements, she continues to inspire and make a positive impact in the lives of her patients. Through her clinic, Diet Diaries by Nikisha Shetye, and her work at various hospitals, she remains committed to promoting sustainable, healthy living. Nikisha’s story is a testament to the power of personalised nutrition and the importance of continuous learning in the ever-evolving field of dietetics.
