Simply Kristen
Welcome to Simply Savor!
I’m a soon-to-be Registered Dietitian (RD), self-proclaimed foodie and chef, fitness enthusiast, health writer, avid tea drinker, wannabe wine connoisseur, and lover of all things chocolate.
One of the first things people ask when I tell them I’m going to be a dietitian is “What do you eat?”
My food philosophy is simple — Life is too short to diet! Nurture your body: Feed it the wholesome, healthy food it deserves, challenge it by staying active, and love it for how beautiful and strong it makes you feel.
I’m always in search of that delicious dish that leaves me speechless after a single bite. If a few of my recipes, snacks and meals can inspire someone to start eating healthier, then I couldn’t be happier. And just because I’m a nutritionist doesn’t mean I don’t allow myself to indulge in the occasional dessert. Believe me, my weakness for dark chocolate is almost as strong as my love affair with spinach. 
I enjoy being creative in the kitchen — preparing healthy meals that don’t sacrifice flavor, and then sharing them with the people I love. Savor every moment and every meal, and you’ll be surprised how simple changes yield significant results.
My daily eats tend to revolve around the Mediterranean lifestyle that I adopted while spending 6 months living in Roma, Italy–lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, seafood, nuts (+nut butters!), wine, water, etc. My favorite meal of the day is breakfast!
I’m an AFAA certified fitness, Pilates and Zumba instructor, and typically exercise 4-5x a week, switching it up between various activities such as ballet, yoga (vinyasa + bikram), strength training, running, pilates, walking, kickboxing, zumba etc. Just as I like variety in my diet, mixing up my exercise routine helps me stay motivated and keeps things fresh.
In the past, I have had amazing opportunities to work with MSNBC , New Orleans Second Harvest of America, Fitness Magazine, C&J Nutrition, and most recently with registered dietitian, Mitzi Dulan. In my free time I enjoy dancing, spending time with family and friends, traveling, exploring, going to farmer’s markets, photography, learning new things, watching the Food Network, and of course cooking and baking.
Someday I hope to open my own private practice, write healthy living books/ cookbooks, travel the world and taste foods from different cultures, start my own health food line, become a spokesperson, and maybe even host a healthy cooking show. What can I say, I have big dreams! 
I hope that this site will serve as a forum for a healthy dialogue on topics of nutrition, food, fitness, and well-being, as well as to connect with the inspiring online community. I look forward to learning and sharing info, tips, and recipes with all of you! Thanks for stopping by!
I love to hear from my readers so feel free to email me anytime! kristen@simplysavor.com
You can also follow me on Twitter and Facebook to read my favorite food/fitness articles, recipes, tips, quotes, what I’m eating, and any other random streams of consciousness
Have any questions for me? Ask away!
I LOVE your philosophy on food/dieting and I couldn’t agree more
So exciting that you’re a soon-to-be dietician! I always play around with going back to school for the same thing 
And hey – ya gotta dream big to get big, right?? GOOD LUCK with all your aspirations!!
Thanks so much! The thought of heading back to school to become an RD is definitely a little daunting, but it has been totally worth it and I know I would always regret it if i hadn’t. Best of luck if you too decide to go back
It’s awesome that you are going to school to be an RD. I too have thought over and over again about going back and I actually took two courses this summer as part of an ADA certified program, only now I can’t decide if I should keep going. It’s really tough working full time and going back to school – especially when taking intense summer courses. How far away are you from being finished with your schooling?
As I said on my comment on your first post, I can’t wait to read more of your blog!!
Hi Brittany! I have 2 more years to go, but I’m doing the Coordinated Program (mix of internship and coursework) so that I can sit for the exam sooner–you should definitely look into that option but it might be difficult if you’re working full time. If you have any questions about the coordinated program please feel free to email me, i’d love to help!
Hey Kristen! Just found your blog and look forward to reading more!
I’ve been a dietitian for 8 years now and it is a great career- truly what you make it. I love staying in touch with other RDs/RDs to be…look forward to reading more!
I’m so excited to have found your blog. Your Mediterranean style of eating is what I’m aiming to model mine after. I can’t wait to read more from you!
I am so happy that I came across your blog through my email updates from Zesty Cook. I read that you were going to school in New Orleans. I live in New Orleans! Are you still down here? I can’t wait to keep reading
Hi Megan! Thanks for commenting! I graduated so I’m not in NOLA anymore, but I definitely have plans to go back and visit soon
My diet is, to say the least, unhealthy. Typical day consists of banana pancakes, Lebanese Cafe, and pecan pie. I need some serious advice. DO you think you can help?
Ryan,
Having personally tasted your banana chocolate chip pancakes (which are amazing), Lebanon Cafe hummus, and Camelia Grill pecan pie I’m happy to say that all of these can be part of a healthy diet if enjoyed in moderation. I’m still trying to perfect my healthy version of Magnolia Bakery cupcakes…I’ll let you know how it goes
Love the blog Kristen!! If you read this before tomorrow at 7:30am comment back and let us know if you want to do the walk with us! We have to see you before we all leave so we can make dinner/yoga/zumba/all things amazing plans!
Hey Kristen! Love the blog! I’m so happy that we met you at the summit! We are definitely getting together soon! : )
Kristen,
Your site is amazing, the last I heard about it was over drinks at Barcelona when you devised the idea. I’m so proud of you that it came to fruition and looks so amazing.
Make a section for guys!
Love,
Matt
Thanks for visiting my blog! I like yours as well!
Kristen,
Love the website – so colorful and informative. Will be trying some of those delicious-looking meals. The kids love the fruit smoothies. Quick and easy to make in the morning. The kids drink them in the car on the way to school. Keep the breakfast ideas coming!
Thanks Aunt Margie! Don’t worry I’ll keep the breakfast recipes coming for you (so glad the girls like them!) xox
Hi Kristen, just found your blog and love your life/fitness/food philosophy! I’m the same in the same that I love simple things in life and also a yogi!
Looking forward to read more!
its so weird how reading this put a smile on my face. i am going to school to become a nutritional consultant. i am 20 and have been putting off shcool for awhile but recently got motivated. i was vegan for many years but am opening up to the idea of a mediterranean non veg diet because i lost my grandpa and many uncles/aunts to altzheimers. i find your energy so warm and amazing. you are beautiful and look amazingly healthy/fit. u are my lifestyle inspiration. i cant wait to read all ur posts and get to know u better
Kels
Thank you for such a sweet comment! I am so happy to hear that you’re studying to become a nutrition consultant. Best of luck with the program–I’d love to hear all about it!
This blog is adorable. Love you food/fitness philosophy. Can’t wait to read more!
Kristen,
I admire your dedication to the website, and I am absolutely obsessed with it! I am about to go to the grocery store and came on to get a shopping list! What are the best kind of teas? Green tea? Also I am addicted to pasta, what should I do??
Love,
Kelley
Hey Kel!
White tea actually has the most antioxidants, followed by green tea. All tea is great for you however so you’re pretty safe with any type that you choose (just make sure to use a low-calorie sweetener and lowfat milk if you like to add stuff to your tea) I helped write an article about different teas if you want to check it out for additional info: http://nutritionexpert.com/blog/2009/08/a-cup-of-tea-for-good-health/
In terms of pasta: 100% whole wheat pasta is my favorite. Or if you’re looking for a low-carb/low-calorie alternative, try Tofu Shirataki noodles. They’re a little difficult to find but I’ve seen them in Whole Foods. They have only 3g of carbs per serving and 20 calories for a 4oz. portion!
I’ll be posting a Simply Savor shopping list sometime soon! Thanks for the great questions
love your philosophiesss ! awesome : ) can’t wait to read moree
Had no idea……very impessive….
what wonderful philosophies! where are you studying? I’m in Boston doing my dietetic undergrad, and while it is quite challenging and being internships are highly selective, i love every minute-its wonderful to be studying what you are passionate about!
i noted your blog, but then forgot to check back on it-and its fabulous!
did zesty format it for you? love the design/layout
look forward to reading more from yoU!
Hi Elizabeth! I’m studying in Connecticut doing the coordinated program so I’m doing the coursework and internship at the same time right now–my schedule is crazy but like you, i love every minute of it! And yes, zesty formatted my blog, he’s the best! Can’t wait to hear more about your dietetics program
Hi Kristin-
I just came across your blog and absolutely LOVE it. I love your philosophy on food. I am a lot like you and love wine and chocolate. (I’m actually a wine consultant). I can’t wait to read more on your blog. Love it already!
Hi Kristen,
I just stumbled across your blog, and I have to say: love love love!! I highly identify with your personal story, your writing styles, topics, and so forth. I think I’m a newly converted Simply Savor devotee
One item that really rang true is your soon-to-bee Registered Dietitian degree(?) I have been considering going to school for mine as well… but I have no idea where to start, or even… what it entails, and what you do with it afterwards! I know, I know… lot’s of big questions here. Can you write a post (or just reply here) with some more information on RDs… Either from your personal experience and/or links to informational sites you think are helpful.
Would love to hear your perspective! Much Love~
Suzy
Another inspirational blogger!
What a great blog! I love reading all of your posts and you About Page is Fab!!
I look forward to reading more wonderful posts
You are now on my daily reads!
Happy Sunday Doll
Hi!
I just found your blog and I’m so glad I did! Your food and health philosophy is great.. I can’t wait to read more!
Kristen,
I love your blog. I’m also a dietitian-to-be. It is so great to know other people who are equally as passionate about nutrition! I look forward to following along. I’m new to blogging and this online community of nutrition foodies is really inspiring.
Being a wino is the best. YOu remind me of myself when I was a nutrition major in college (not too long ago). Great blog! Can’t wait to keep reading!
Cheers,
LCotter
Love the site, Kristen! I can’t wait to try some of your recipes (the waffle sandwich looks mouth-watering — yum!). I can’t wait to read more! Keep it coming!
Kristen – your Web site is fantastic! As a senior journalism major with an enthusiastic interest in health and fitness – I stumbled upon your content when searching for past Fitness Magazine employees on Facebook!
I had the pleasure of interning there last summer as an editorial intern. Your recipes and tips are awesome
Keep up the great work and good luck in everything that you do!
Ahh another Fitness Magazine intern! I did my undergrad as a Communications/Journalism major, and now I’m at UCONN for Nutrition/Dietetics so it looks like we have a lot in common! Thanks for all of your kind words, and best of luck to you too! Thanks for stopping by
LOVE that motto – life is definitely way too short to diet
Hi Kristen, I’m Kristen too! lol love your blog and that you dance. I love to dance too!! Look forward to reading
Hi Kristen! Looks like we have quite a lot in common, I’m a big fan of your blog too!
I’m so inspired by you! I am a communications major at Suffolk University but want to become a RD. I was having difficulty picturing a transition from the two fields but you have and are having so much success; congrats and thank-you!
Hi Brigitte! Thanks for stopping by! I graduated from Tulane University with a BA in Communications, and am now working towards getting my RD–if you have ANY questions on how to make the switch please don’t hesitate to email me (kristen@simplysavor.com). I’d love to help in any way
Best of luck!
I love to meet others who love zumba! And you’re even an instructor?! Wow! Cool! Zumba IS a fun way to exercise! Not that I don’t love to jog also. But I am glad to have Zumba Fitness in my life. It makes things spicy and exciting!
I love to share any giveaway info I hear about with others on my blog. It sounds like you enjoy giveaways too! I’ll try and check back and see if you have any updates about fun stuff like that! And of course, you are welcome to browse my blogs!
It’s so nice to meet you Kristen! Talk to you again soon!
Hey, I came across your site via TasteSpotting and I have to say that I am impressed. It doesn’t hurt that you are gorgeous too.
-cm.
Hi Kristen!!
I love your blog, and you seem like an awesome person. I’m also working on my RD in Hawaii, I’m almost done with my internship, just a few more weeks! Good luck with everything in the future.
Aloha,
Malia
I’m new to blogging and came across yours! I really look forward to keeping up with you and reading all you have to offer.