Melanie Harris has been a critical part of my 13-year-old son’s care team following his diagnosis with ulcerative colitis. She customized a diet plan for him and guided us step-by-step, with helpful hints, meal plans, and delicious recipes to suit his requirements, lifestyle and tastebuds. Her relatable manner and understanding and uplifting personality helped him to understand the “why” of this necessary lifestyle change and kept him motivated to continue making nutritional therapy a priority. Mel Harris has made all of the difference, and her guidance and the implementation of her nutritional plans have been what I consider the most significant impact on his improvement.

Words can never express and there is no dollar amount that I can put on how much this service has meant to me. To have someone mentor my daughter and teach her a healthier way of living and how to implement healthier food choices into her lifestyle is something she will take with her long after she is out of my home and living on her own. Everyone needs a Mel in their life!

As I’ve entered my 50’s and find myself a part of the “sandwich generation” – taking care of an elderly parent and becoming a grandparent – I’ve become much more aware of how important it is to care for myself so I can care for others. And despite that revelation, last year I found myself at an all-time high weight, feeling a bit hopeless and completely disgusted. I knew I had to do something, and I knew who could help me.

I first worked with Mel about 1 ½ years ago. She guided me through a seven-day cleanse that enabled me to lose about seven pounds. Perfect! Then life took over again, and I regained what I lost and added a few more pounds. So, I went back to Mel this past summer and we started over. But instead of a week, she asked me to commit to three months of meal plans, a regular exercise schedule and one-on-one coaching. I agreed and began my 12-week program in early October. I was already exercising and doing yoga locally three times a week, so at least that habit was already in place!

Now, I can’t tell you that I am a perfect client doing everything Mel instructs me to do. In fact, I may be her most rebellious client! But I try!  And Mel’s taught me that it’s about more than what you eat and how often you exercise. She has also taught me to be “intentional” about my eating habits and general health. Before I prepare a meal or eat a snack, I now think about whether it will provide the nutrients I need to keep feeling good all day long. I consider how it will affect my metabolism. And I evaluate how much protein and fruits/vegetables/carbs (yes, you do need carbs!!) and whole grains I am getting at each meal and attempt to make it proportionally correct. Thanks to her coaching, I now have a much better understanding of what my plate needs to look like.

This program is comprehensive and easy to follow. The meal plans and recipes Mel provides are priceless. The weekly coaching conversations are invaluable. And the grace she extends when I don’t do what I have agreed to do is immeasurable. We use the word “balance” a lot. LOL

And with the guidance of this program, since October 8, 2018, I have lost 12 pounds. That’s approximately one pound per week with the holidays thrown in. And guess what?  That’s exactly what the (fill in name of whatever entity recommends this goal) recommends. I still have a few more to go and know that I can do it!

Mel is professionally trained to properly coach you to good health and is gracious throughout the process. There are no fad diets, no pills, no gimmicks. Just an intentional, healthy lifestyle that will help you feel your very best inside and out every day.