Chef Eliana Grubel of Clean Food 4 Ur Type has been serving Connecticut for more than 15 years, offering short-term detoxes, healthy meals to freeze, dinner parties, cooking classes, and personalized coaching programs. So of course, Natural Awakenings asked her to be a part of our special food issue.

What led you to become a passionate advocate for better health through food?

In 2006, I began a journey through the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, where I became a board-certified health coach. This triggered my passion for healthy and clean living. Learning firsthand from leaders in the field completely changed my view about food, nutrition, lifestyle, and spirituality. Understanding the power of individuality and food gave me the tools to help my clients achieve better health. 

What training did you receive prior to starting your practice? Who did you study with?

I am a board-certified health coach by the American Association of Drugless Practitioners, and a Personal Chef certified by the Culinary Business Academy in Atlanta, Georgia, a member institution of the United States Personal Chef Association. I am also certified as a Food Safety Manager by the National Registry of Food Safety Professionals, which allows me to handle any commercial kitchen nationwide. I have studied directly with Dr. Walter Willet, Dr. Marion Nestle, Dr. Deepak Chopra, and Annemarie Colbin, among others. I have trained with chefs Rosemary Rutland in Atlanta and Megan Huylo, Hideyo Yamada, Ann Nunziata and Michaela Hayes in New York City.

Some of my other trainers include: Michio Kishi, David Wolfe, Dr. John Douillard, Barry Sears, Dr. Mark Hyman, Eric Schlosser, Dr. Elson Haas, Paul Pitchford, and Dr. Joseph Mercola.

What is the basis of your approach with your clients? 

The foundation of the approach with my clients is bio-individuality. When my clients learn that their interests in food can have profound genetic effects and thus aid in a wholesome life, they are excited to seek a healthier lifestyle. One thing all my clients share is that they are interested in clean eating and looking to discover the right foods for their type. 

What services do you provide for clients?

I mainly provide short-term detox diets, where together my clients and I plan a personalized menu, for which I shop, prepare all juices, smoothies, soups, salads, and plant-based meals, from five days up to four weeks of detoxification. I also offer in-home packages from 12 up to 36 complete personalized meals to freeze, cooking classes, one-on-one coaching sessions online in Spanish, Portuguese and English, and clean-eating and health seminars.

How do you empower clients to better provide for themselves?

I provide a set of packaged information and tips about healthy eating and lifestyle improvements together with support via email, text messages and follow-ups by phone between sessions and appointments for all my cooking and coaching clients. I have found that my personalized approach makes clients feel like they have the tools and support needed to succeed. 

Which elements of the work frustrate you? Which aspects do you love?

The main frustration I find in my work is that unhealthy food has become incredibly cheap. It is difficult to work around making healthy food more affordable, but I am always trying to find ways that my clients can save money and still acquire high quality ingredients for their bodies. I especially love providing detox diets and being able to "see" my clients’ faces and changes during the process. Seeing their skin glow and their eyes getting brighter makes my day! At the conclusion of their journey I am assured by the positive feedback regarding their improvements, which brings me great joy.

What do you most want Natural Awakenings readers to know about your work?

My commitment to provide a high-quality journey and support my clients is unwavering. My passion is simply to help you become a healthier, happier you!

For more information or to connect with Chef Eliana, call 203-559-8946 or visit CleanFood4UrType.com. See ad, page 23.