​Growing up in a household where both of my parents were very involved in the kitchen, I developed a love of food from a young age. My interest in nutrition peaked during high school, when I was experiencing the typical downsides of adolescence: acne, mood swings, and insecurities. 

​This led me to research and to learn about how food may impact how we feel, help prevent certain diseases, affect our energy levels, and influence our mood. I realized that my interest in nutrition could become a career path, so I decided to pursue a bachelor’s degree of Applied Science in Nutrition and Food at Ryerson University. 

​Fast forward 5 years, and I am currently completing a Master of Health Science in Nutrition Communication degree at Ryerson. This program is accredited by Dietitians of Canada, allowing me to practice as a Registered Dietitian upon finishing the program this December 2018. It includes an 8-month integrated internship program which has allowed me to gain experience working in many areas of nutrition care including sport nutrition, diabetes, cardiovascular health, mental health, and digestive diseases with a variety of population groups. 

​In regards to my passion for fitness, I have always been an active individual; playing sports as a teenager, always loving to get outside and bike, hike, run, etc. During my mid-teenage years, I developed a regular yoga practice and would practice intense Ashtanga yoga sessions 5-6 days per week. I became very obsessed with the yoga culture for about two years. However, I quickly realized my body was craving more stimulation, and so I fell into weightlifting (and recently joined CrossFit 6S!), and long-distance running. I have learned first-hand how nutrition plays a huge role in seeing improvements in my strength and endurance capabilities, and sport nutrition is a core interest of mine. 

​Fusing my two loves of fitness and nutrition seems only natural in my progressing career, and after finishing school I hope to work with active individuals and athletes to help them meet their fitness and performance goals. I understand that every person is unique, and as a Registered Dietitian I am excited to help my clients find the foods and dietary pattern that fit their needs and goals best. I hope to establish a private practice in Toronto, with a focus on sport nutrition, digestive health, and overall wellness and disease prevention. 

Leigh Merotto
​Dietetics Student & FF6S Team Member