Growing up, I found myself frequently in the kitchen, intrigued by food and how it made people feel. However, I was not aware of the world of nutrition and health promotion until I encountered my own health problems in high school…

During this time, I experienced significant unintentional weight loss leading to muscle wasting, and a series of heart, circulation and mutli-organ issues. After years of fighting with doctors who continually misdiagnosed me with an eating disorder, I eventually got diagnosed with Celiac disease. Struggling at an all-time low weight I was referred to a dietitian to aid in re-nourishment by developing a diet to attempt to regain weight. This interaction fueled my desire to enter the profession and learn more to help others. ​

​Later in my university undergraduate degree, I discovered fitness and began lifting weights after encouragement from classmates and instantly fell in love. For the first time since I was a kid involved in sports, I began to feel strong and confident. Faced with criticism from others about my health, and ultimately my thin size, I became motivated to improve my own health and excel in physical endeavors. I wanted to see how far I could go with my progress in fitness and decided to compete in bodybuilding. ​

​As a previous competitive swimmer, basketball player and athlete growing up and in high school, the urge to compete made the progression into the training and competition world quite seamless with the mentality already established. After a few years of being in the bodybuilding world, the move into Powerlifting was an easy transition – I just joined Hank’s Powerhouse!

​I received my Bachelors of Applied Science in Human Nutrition at the University of Guelph accredited by the Dietitians of Canada. At Ryerson University, I completed a Masters of Health Science in Nutrition Communication with an integrated dietetic internship to become a registered dietitian. Over the years, I have gained experience working with diabetes, cardiovascular disease, Celiac Disease, IBS, IBD, weight loss, muscle gain, sports performance, family meal planning, menu planning, mental health and many more. Curious about sports nutrition, I also took additional accreditation at the Australian Institute of Sport. On the side, I also obtained culinary training at Liaison College in Oshawa.  

By translating and delivering high quality, evidence-based nutrition information I wish to empower individual clients and groups, to promote optimal physical performance, lifestyle and nutrition care.There truly is no barrier you cannot overcome!

I’m looking forward to working with you to help you achieve your health and nutrition goals.

​Email me at alysha@crossfit6s.com to get started today – I’d love to hear from you!

Alysha Coughler
Food for 6S Registered Dietician