More about Sonya
As a certified holistic nutritionist and passionate advocate for a plant-based lifestyle, I’m thrilled to welcome you to my page. By being here, you’ve already made the most important and courageous decision: to improve your health and well-being. This is something to truly be proud of!
I was raised in the Midwest as the second of four girls by a single mother who worked full-time as a nurse. Like many children, I wasn’t fond of vegetables unless they were slathered in butter or cheese. Throughout my teenage years, my diet largely consisted of chips, cereal, soda, and what I mistakenly believed was “healthy”—a salad of iceberg lettuce drowned in ranch dressing and processed cheese. It wasn’t until my twenties, when I started exercising, that I became more aware of my food choices. At the time, I thought chicken breast was the epitome of clean eating, unaware of the high-protein content found in leafy greens and legumes.
In 2014, I moved to Los Angeles, still following a pescatarian diet but not necessarily a healthy one. My go-to meals included pizza, fried calamari, Caesar salads, and beer. My exercise routine consisted mostly of walking my dog and waiting tables. I knew I wasn’t feeling my best, and something needed to change.
In 2015, I transitioned to a fully vegan diet—and immediately felt a noticeable improvement in my overall health. I also became more educated about harmful ingredients, including additives, toxic dyes, and overly processed foods. Shifting to whole, plant-based foods became simpler and more intuitive. That same year, I trained for my first marathon, which led to completing the L.A. Marathon three times, the Pasadena Half-Marathon twice, and many other races that have kept me in peak condition.
In 2020, during the global pandemic, I took my practice to the next level. With certifications in Holistic Nutrition and the Science of Well-Being, I founded We Are What We Eat, a holistic, plant-based nutrition practice. The goal is to help individuals achieve their personal health objectives and prevent genetic diseases. My mission is simple: building meaningful connections and empowering others to maintain balanced, healthy lifestyles.
What I Do
As a nutrition counselor, I help individuals take control of their health, shed stubborn weight, and achieve lasting results through practical lifestyle changes. My program, 12 Weeks to Create a Healthier You, is a fully personalized plan designed to help you reclaim your health for good. Research continues to highlight the profound benefits of a whole-food, plant-based diet.
Remember: Don’t let the start stop you.
Certifications
Lymphatic System and Massage
-American Massage Therapy Association
Plant-Based Sports Nutrition
-American Fitness Professionals & Associates
Eat for Life: Increase Longevity, Reverse Disease, and Sustain Weight Loss
-American Fitness Professionals & Associates