Who the hell is Dina and what is the D-List?
I’m Dina, a British-Iraqi nutritionist and mum, based in east London. I became a nutritionist motivated by my own health, and because of my love for food, thanks to my delicious food culture.
What I didn’t sign up for is the elitist and aspirational fluff, the toxic diet culture, the image-conscious perfectionism, and the food shaming that is constantly buzzing away in the background.
The D-List was born out of the lack of diversity and inclusivity in the wellness industry. The industry is targeted to a very narrow demographic that excludes many people of different backgrounds, abilities and body types, including myself. Every BODY is different and there is no fun in being confined to a limited bubble where everyone looks, thinks and eats the same.
The D-List is a celebration of uniqueness, imperfection and the joy of food from around the world. A place where we can embrace our real and wonderfully messy lives, and thrive with our challenges.
Why I’m here and what I might talk about:
Firstly, I love food. I love eating it, talking about it and planning my life around it. It is one of life’s biggest pleasures and there is no place here for restriction or punishment.
Secondly, my Iraqi heritage is important to me. Mama’s cooking is the one thing that connects me to my roots and gives me a sense of belonging. The world of nutrition could do with a bit more spice and I LOVE delving into different food cultures as well as my own. The Mediterranean diet is fabulous but it’s not the only way to be healthy.
And finally, as a new mum with a disability, I know firsthand the challenges of living a healthy lifestyle with limited time and energy. Mainstream nutrition advice is unnecessarily complicated and sucks the joy out of eating. Food is for everyone and should be enjoyed. BUT keeping myself and my family well-nourished is not so straightforward when balls deep in work and parenting. That is why I’m on an ongoing exploration of realistic healthy living, shamelessly embracing shortcuts and convenience, and sharing what works as I go along, as well as the fails.
It’s not about conforming to wellness trends or striving for perfection, I'm here to break the rules that make nutrition feel exclusive and unattainable.
What to expect on the D-List:
Monthly 5-minute meals.
Energy-saving tips and thoughts on realistic healthy living.
Delicious discoveries to help simplify and diversify your life.
The latest news from Vitamin Dina and the world of accessible nutrition.
What I won’t be talking about:
What not to eat.
The latest bollocks wellness trends.
Miracle remedies that will heal your soul or prevent death.
Time and energy-sapping processes.
So if you’re too busy to soak your nuts, this one’s for you. Whether you’re a knackered parent, a hard-working professional, you have a disability or you’re just busy and tired, please join me on my journey to make nutrition a lot less complicated and a little less dull.
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