We had the good fortune of connecting with Gabrielle Ramirez and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Gabrielle, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
The thought process behind starting my nutrition private practice was two-fold. 1) I saw a need for more dietitians with diverse backgrounds to support those going through eating disorder/disordered eating recovery. 2) I was eager to have flexibility that allowed me to spend more time at home with my family while still doing the work that I love.
The majority of my career as a registered dietitian has been spent working in eating disorder treatment. Eating disorders and disordered eating can affect any individual – contrary to what classic stereotypes might say. Houston in particular is a diverse city with cultures represented from all over the world, yet the care that most have access to is not reflective of their identities, or they may not have access to care at all. I believe that clients deserve safe, supportive, and accessible care from professionals who respect and work to understand those cultures. My hope in starting my business has always been to play my part in filling that need.
By having a practice that operates virtually, I have been able to offer support for individuals all over Texas, while also having cherished time at home with my family. I couldn’t be more excited to be able to do both!
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Gabrielle Ramirez Nutrition exists to support those who are pursuing eating disorder/disordered eating recovery, who are tired of trying diet after diet, who want a better relationship with food and their body, and who are interested in improving their health without rigid rules and unattainable standards. Dietitians have a reputation for being the “food police,” but I am proud to provide a judgement-free and safe space for clients of all backgrounds to get the support they need.
My nutrition philosophy is rooted in being weight-inclusive, culturally-aware, and realistic. I am not the dietitian who will put you on fad diet, encourage you to avoid all your favorite foods, or shame you for your eating choices. My greatest joy is being able to support clients in their nutrition goals, while also establishing a flexible and peaceful relationship with food and their body.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
It may go without saying that food is one of my favorite things, so I’d want to maximize their food experience! Given that I have two small kids at home, all of my recommendations would be very family-friendly as well.
For breakfast, we’d check out places like Hot Bagel Shop, Dish Society, and Juiceland. For lunches or dinners, I’d include Fadi’s (special shoutout to the Meyerland location!), Local Foods, Torchy’s, and Pho Ben. If they wanted some Texas BBQ, we’re going to the Pit Room. I’m a big sweets person, so throughout the trip we’d have to grab baked goods from Common Bond, ice cream from Milk + Sugar, a slice of cake from Empire Cafe, and boba tea from Muse Tea.
Separate from the food, we would spend some time in the Museum District, maybe catch a play at Theater Under the Stars, and if it’s not too hot, stroll around Discovery Green.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
The person who deserves the most recognition is hands down Robert Ramirez, aka my husband. Not only does he excel at everything I’m terrible at (no exaggeration), he has also been my greatest encourager and supporter. Literally none of what I’m doing now would be what it is without him, as he did everything from helping me with business basics, building my website, taking my headshots, handling marketing, and much more. If you have a business that needs building, he is your guy. https://www.theculturated.co
Website: www.gabrielleramirez.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabriellerdn/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrielle-ramirez-ms-rd-ld-cedrd-764b4149/
Other: Health Profs: https://www.healthprofs.com/us/members/gabrielle-ramirez-houston-tx/899724
Image Credits
Robert Ramirez