Welcome new and returning UC Berkeley students! We are pleased to introduce a few new members of our UHS Nutrition team:
Karen Johal, MSc, RDN
I’m looking forward to giving back to UC Berkeley by working with the students here! I hope to apply some of what I’ve picked up along the way to the demands of college life. I believe working with students on campus is an important step in promoting wellness and prevention. I received my BS in Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics and my BA in Psychology from UC Berkeley and then completed my dietetic internship at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. I went abroad to the University of Surrey for my MSc in Health Psychology, and now I’m enjoying my time as an outpatient dietitian! I also serve as the Diversity Liaison for the Bay Area District of the California Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and volunteer with the UC Berkeley chapter of the Bhagat Puran Singh Health Initiative (BPSHI), which I have been a part of since my undergraduate years.
I’m interested in sustainable behavior change and promoting a healthy lifestyle, as well as plant-based diets and holistic health. A tip I try to follow is to set yourself up for success—keep healthier options at home so when you get a craving while studying for tomorrow’s exam, the healthy choice will be the easy choice!
Liz Aldridge, RDN
Hello UC Berkeley students! I will be working as a Registered Dietitian at UHS this fall semester, and I want to introduce myself and share a bit about my background. As a dietitian, my goal is to help individuals improve their health through nutrition and lifestyle changes. I first gained experience in outpatient counseling during my dietetic internship, which is when I discovered my passion for working as a nutrition counselor. I am drawn to this kind of work because I know that working one-on-one with people can truly lead to lasting positive change. Before studying nutrition, I received my BA in psychology from UC Berkeley. As a Cal alum, I am honored for this opportunity to give back to the UC Berkeley community. I am looking forward to working with you this semester!
In addition to my work as a nutrition counselor, I also spend time writing articles for several health and nutrition-focused websites and am interested in sustainable food systems, food equity, and food access. Part of that work involves creating tasty new recipes that I will now be able to share with you! Lately, I’ve been enjoying this simple Chia Seed Pudding recipe- it’s perfect for a healthy dessert or a grab-and-go snack.
Quick Fact: Chia seeds are a complete protein, and are a good source of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
Chia Seed Pudding Ingredients:
- 3-4 Tbsp chia seeds
- 1 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp sweetener, such as honey or agave
- 1 cup milk or milk alternative
- Optional: Vanilla extract, a spoonful of yogurt, fresh or frozen berries, cinnamon, or shredded coconut
Directions:
- Thoroughly mix all ingredients in a bowl, large mug, or jar, then let soak for at least 15 minutes. The longer it sits, the more pudding-like it will get.
Miller Rose, Baby
The tiniest new member of our team, dietitian Sarah Minkow’s new daughter, Miller Rose, arrived on August 7. Millie measured 22 inches and 8 lb 4 oz, though she is already a firm believer in Health at Every Size and knows those numbers don’t define her! Millie’s nutrition tip: Eat when you’re hungry! For Millie, that means about 12 times a day, but everybody is different. Listen to yours to know the right amount for you.
We look forward to helping you stay well-nourished this Fall! Check out our calendar for updated event info.