Women We Admire | Danielle Levy
Danielle is a Registered Holistic Nutrition Practitioner (R.H.N) and Plant-Based cook based in Montreal, Canada. She is a graduate of Bauman College located in California, and the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition (CSNN). Her integrative and comprehensive approach to nutrition focuses on a whole-foods, plant-based diet and a balanced lifestyle. As a nutrition educator, Danielle is passionate about empowering others to achieve optimal health and well-being.
I have been following Danielle's social media for quite some time now, and I must admit I have a bit of a girl crush. She's super inspiring, always posting motivating quotes and showcasing her gorgeous hikes. I highly recommend following her if you'd like to add some positive vibes to your news feed!
1. What’s your go-to morning routine?
I’m a big morning person! I typically wake up early; getting about 7 hours of sleep is ideal for me. I immediately make some tea, and breakfast, which is usually a turmeric spiced spinach, onion, lentil dish. Not your typical Canadian breakfast, but very nutritious and delicious! Most days, I dedicate 20-minutes to my morning meditation practice. Then I jump into work for a couple hours, getting my most-focused work done in the early hours. By this time, I’ve digested breakfast, and am eager to get outside for a run or walk (depending on the day) at Mount-Royal! Montreal’s beautiful Mountain, located just a few blocks away from my home. Life is good!
2. What advice can you provide for transitioning seasons?
Great question! I think it’s important to embrace change of all kinds, rather than resist it – as this allows us to move through and transition with greater ease. Seasonal change can have a significant impact on many people, affecting energy level, appetite, mood, immunity, skin health, and sleep. I recommend listening to your body, allowing yourself to rest as needed, getting regular exercise, and time outdoors (exposure to sunlight is key). In terms of food, following the seasons makes sense for many reasons. During the colder months, when warming root veggies and winter squash are in season, we naturally eat more hearty cooked meals. In the summer, when cooling, hydrating foods like cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, zucchini, and berries are in season, we can enjoy more raw salads. Seasonal eating helps us rotate our diet naturally, thus obtaining a wider spectrum of nutrients. I encourage people to look out for the fresh, local produce at their grocery store, and visit farmers markets or order a seasonal CSA basket. Let the season inspire your cooking!
3. How important is hydration to you + how do you maximize it?
Proper hydration is HUGE! I recommend drinking 3-litres of water or herbal tea a day for optimal health, through all the seasons. Most people I meet in my nutrition practice are dehydrated to some degree, which connects to a number of their symptoms including digestive issues (constipation), low energy, headaches, and skin problems. Once they start drinking more water, they notice a big difference, and many of their symptoms subside. For those who don’t enjoy straight H20, I suggest infusing your water with fresh citrus slices, mint leaves, or even making boiled ginger or lemongrass tea. To create the healthy habit of drinking water, I suggest buying a 1-litre water bottle to bring everywhere with you, and make it your goal to fill it up 3 times throughout the day!
4. Your favourite summer foods?
Wow so many! But I’d have to say my favourite summer foods are sweet, ripe, tomatoes and fresh, aromatic basil - a simple, delicious and nutritious combo! 
Danielle offers one-on-one consultations, customized diet + lifestyle planning and continued support. Available in person, via phone, email or Skype sessions! View Danielle's customized services here!
Danielle Levy, R.H.N, Registered Holistic Nutrition Practitioner
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xx Cassandra