I'm Natalie Knezic, a certified nutrition coach (CNC, WLS), UK-based writer, recipe developer, and creator of Natalie's Health website. Also, I'm a foodie, passionate about healthy food and a healthy lifestyle. I love to cook, and create new recipes using wholesome ingredients that contribute to our health.
I'm a healthy foodie on a mission to help people rediscover the joy of eating real food.
My own health issues were the reason I studied and qualified as a nutrition coach. And Natalie's Health place, where I can express my creativity and passion for food.
My recipes and articles have been featured in many popular media outlets, like Shape, Greatist, Pure Wow, Mashed, The Huffington Post, ELLE Magazine, and many more.
My Philosophy
My aim is to help people make long-term improvements to their health. Health is about being happy and having the energy to enjoy life. Also, eating healthy doesn't mean food has to be tasteless or boring.
I believe that changing eating habits is a lifestyle choice and not simply a quick-fix diet. I am passionate about sharing with others how rewarding it is to live healthily and feel like you are really thriving, not just surviving. I want you to be the best version of yourself.
Healthy eating is absolutely not about dieting and starvation, It's about embracing a healthy way of life.
My weight-loss story
It was the Summer of 2014, and I was emotionally and physically on the edge. At that time I weighed 260 pounds (120kg). I was obese and unhappy, and I felt sick.
My stressful job, unhealthy lifestyle, and complete neglect of health almost completely ruined my life. I had serious back and knee pain because of my weight. My blood pressure was high and my heart was under pressure.
When I looked at myself in the mirror I saw a future that was not bright and happy. I got frightened and scared for my health. That's why literally overnight I decided to go for a change for the sake of my health and for my family.
My mission is to promote good health with a wholesome and active lifestyle.
I wanted to be healthier and free, but I didn't want to go through yet another diet. I began educating myself and working on a new me.
The first thing I did, was I ditched all the unhealthy stuff - processed foods, sugars, and sugary drinks. It was a pretty drastic change for me at that time, but it was the only way. Soon my perspective toward foods changed. I began to view food as nourishment. I learned to receive the gift that wholesome foods have given me. Also, I started exercising regularly.
Soon I restored my energy, and I started feeling amazing. Also, I've lost some weight, which restored back my confidence.
In 18 months, I've lost 110 pounds (50 kg / 7.8 stones). But even bigger accomplishment for me was a complete lifestyle change and food freedom.
The relationship I have with food now is a real joy! I've ditched diets for good, and there is so much freedom in that.
My wellness journey
I've learned so much on my healthy journey. I started by reading books and articles, but soon I wanted to learn more, so I enrolled to study to become a Certified Nutrition Coach (CNC) and Weight Loss Specialisation (WLS).
As a health and wellness expert, I've organized many seminars, and been a guest at inspirational breakfasts and other events giving advice on healthy eating and a healthy lifestyle.
I was also documenting all my meals and recipes in a journal. My excitement was huge and my husband recognized that as my new passion. He convinced me to start Natalie's Health website and share recipes with the world.
About Natalie's Health website
Natalie's Health is all about real food - fresh wholesome ingredients and nutrient-dense foods. Through my website, I aim to inspire people to eat more healthily and live balanced active lifestyles.
Recipes I share are the classic types that I tweak to include more nutritious, wholesome ingredients, reduce fat or use better fats and sugar alternatives. With every recipe, I try to improve the nutritional value of the meal without compromising the taste.
In my posts, you will also find info about the nutritional and health benefits of the ingredients. It's there to encourage you to learn more about the nutritional value of the food, to be informed, and to encourage you to make healthier food choices.
I'm really glad you've found my website. Now let me inspire you to cook and eat healthy, and take care of your health.
Xoxo
--- Natalie