Nutrition with heart and soul

Nicola Moore found her calling in nutrition – rising to become a respected clinician, educator and advocate for compassionate, science-based wellbeing. She tells Natalie Li. 

Nicola Moore didn’t always love learning. “I hated school as a youngster,” she admits. But everything changed when she discovered nutrition. “Studying as an adult – crucially in a subject I was passionate about – was a completely different experience.”  

That passion led her to the Institute for Optimum Nutrition (ION), where she graduated in 2004 and went on to shape the future of nutritional therapy. Her early days at ION were transformative.

“I suddenly found myself getting to know a group of peers who had the same interests as me, all of whom were lovely!” Nicola recalls.

“It is very hard to find a nutritional therapist or nutritional therapy student who isn’t lovely.” Despite the joy of connection, the academic journey wasn’t always smooth.

“I struggled with many of the assignments and felt very challenged at times,” she says. “But I recognised that gaining a qualification of value wasn’t likely to come easily. I’m so pleased I didn’t give up – I really don’t know where I would be now if I’d not seen it through.” 

Academic life

Nicola’s perseverance paid off. She spent over 12 years as a senior academic at ION and four years as Head of Clinics, where she played a pivotal role in enhancing clinical training and professional development. “I focused a lot of my work on further developing the strong clinical experience offered to student practitioners,” she explains.  

Her dedication earned her recognition across the nutrition industry and public sector, and she’s now a proud Fellow of ION. “It’s a special place – unique in nature. I want to see ION thrive and for as many people as possible to benefit from all the organisation can offer.”  That ability to go at my own pace, consolidate my learning, it made all the difference.” 

Rooted in compassion and science 

Beyond academia, Nicola runs a thriving online clinic, working with clients across the UK and internationally including high-profile names like Francesca Hayward, principal dancer of the Royal Ballet, and Bridgerton star and actor India Amarteifio.  She hosts her Healthily podcast which shares insightful, expert-led conversations on food, health and wellbeing. 

Her mission? To champion positive health messages and foster healthy relationships with food. “In my early days as a clinician and nutrition academic, I recognised the negativity that can come from food restriction and fear,” she says. “Rather than focusing on deprivation, I strive to help my clients enjoy and appreciate food.” 

Her approach is rooted in compassion and science. By studying the psychology of eating, Nicola has deepened her understanding of how nutrition, physiology, and mindset intertwine. “A positive approach to food is critical to achieving optimal physical and emotional health,” she says. With over two decades of experience, she’s helped thousands of clients uncover the root causes of their health concerns and work toward lasting solutions. 

Nicola also mentors other practitioners, helping them build sustainable, client-focused businesses. “I teach nutritional therapists how to develop a model of working that focuses on building strong, long-term relationships with clients – creating a sustainable business that pays the bills!” 

As the nutrition and wellbeing industry continues to evolve, Nicola remains committed to innovation and growth. “It’s important to not stand still or rest on our laurels,” she says. “This is exciting, and I want ION to remain at the forefront of enterprise in this area.” 

Find out more about Nicola