Meet our new Chief Nutritionist, Dr Linia Patel

YOU HAVE VERY IMPRESSIVE CREDENTIALS AND AN INSPIRING CAREER! CAN YOU SUM IT UP FOR US?

 Thank you! I’ve always considered myself a lifelong learner—a professional student at heart. My passion for science led me to study biochemistry and physiology as an undergraduate, initially with the intention of pursuing postgraduate medicine. However, I “fell” into nutrition science and went on to qualify as a dietitian. Throughout my career, I’ve been deeply invested in two areas: performance nutrition and public health. I’ve dedicated myself to continuous learning, balancing work and study to develop expertise in both fields. Today, I’m fortunate to be in my dream role—working as a Women’s Health Dietitian, Performance Nutritionist, and Public Health Researcher—shaping nutrition science on a strategic and research level yet also helping individuals optimise their health through science-backed practical strategies.

WHAT SPARKED YOUR PASSION FOR NUTRITION?

I almost stumbled into nutrition by chance. My original plan was to pursue medicine, taking the long route via a BSc first. However, in my relentless pursuit of top grades, I developed irritable bowel syndrome—an experience that ultimately changed my path. Seeking help, I saw a dietitian who not only helped me manage my symptoms but also opened my eyes to the profound impact of nutrition on health. That summer, I shadowed dietitians to gain a deeper understanding of their work, and each day I came home with absolute certainty—I had found my dharma. The rest, as they say, is history. There is immense power in what we put on our plates and into our bodies. Most of us are fortunate enough to make a choice of what we eat daily. These small, consistent decisions of what we put on our plate shape our long-term health. The future of your well-being starts with the choices you make today.

WHY HAVE YOU CHOSEN TO WORK WITH INDI?

As a dietitian, my philosophy has always been food first. You can’t supplement your way out of a poor diet or lifestyle. In an ideal world, we would get all the vitamins and minerals we need from food alone. However, the reality of 21st-century living makes this increasingly challenging—modern diets, busy schedules, and environmental factors often leave us falling short on essential nutrients. Add to that the impact of stress (and let’s be honest, who isn’t stressed?) alongside different life stages that naturally increase nutrient demands, and supplementation becomes a valuable tool. That’s why I chose to work with Indi. Their products aren’t about replacing food but rather complementing it—offering high-quality, plant-based solutions that support real-life health needs in a simple and effective way.

IF YOU COULD GIVE ONE PIECE OF ADVICE TO SUPPORT A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

 There is no single “best” diet, but the traditional Mediterranean way of eating is a great benchmark to guide your journey. The true secret of the Mediterranean diet? Consistency—regularly eating a diverse range of nutrient-dense whole foods. At its core, it’s a beautifully balanced approach, centering meals around seasonal vegetables and fruit, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and, of course, extra-virgin olive oil. Moderate amounts of dairy, poultry, eggs, and seafood complement this foundation.But there’s more. It’s not just about eating the Mediterranean way—it’s about living it. True health comes from a holistic approach, where nutrition, sleep, movement, and mental well-being all work in synergy. When you improve one aspect of your well-being, the others naturally follow. Optimal health isn’t just about what’s on your plate—it’s about how you move, rest, and nurture your mind.

WHAT'S ONE MYTH ABOUT HEALTH AND NUTRITION YOU'D LOVE TO SET STRAIGHT?

There are countless nutrition myths out there, and with the rise of social media influencers, misinformation is spreading faster than ever. One of the biggest misconceptions stems from black-and-white thinking—the idea that a healthy diet means eliminating certain foods. A balanced and nourishing way of eating can absolutely include your favourite foods. Take the Mediterranean diet, for example. Sweet treats like gelato aren’t an everyday indulgence, but they’re also not forbidden. They’re enjoyed occasionally, and when they are eaten, it’s with pleasure, not guilt. There’s no such thing as "good" or "bad" foods—rather, foods exist on a spectrum. Some should be eaten more often, some in moderation, and others less frequently. This approach makes nutrition more practical, flexible, and enjoyable, transforming healthy eating from a restrictive “diet” into a sustainable way of life.

WHAT DO YOU WANT YOUR LEGACY TO BE?

Great question! My hope is to leave a legacy of empowerment—helping as many people as possible to truly understand and harness the most powerful tool they will ever own: their body. I want to inspire the people that I meet on my path to nourish and care for themselves in a way that allows them to live their healthiest, most vibrant lives.