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aesthetics vs. health: what matters more in dance?
Aesthetics are subjective. Health is essential. Here’s why fueling, recovery, and strength—not appearance—create the stamina, artistry, and consistency directors count on.

Melissa
Oct 24 min read


body checking for dancers: what it is and what to do instead
You catch your reflection between combinations and do a quick scan: lines, waist, quads. Later, you zoom in on a rehearsal photo to check your arm shape. Maybe you pinch, adjust, or try on an old costume “just to see.”
If any of that sounds familiar, you’re not alone—and you’re not doing anything “wrong.” You’re likely body checking.

Melissa
Sep 224 min read


the truth about 'what I eat in a day' videos for dancers
“What I Eat in a Day” videos are everywhere right now — from influencers to professional ballet dancers. They’re easy to click on, and I’ll admit, I’ve watched my share, too.

Melissa
Sep 43 min read


how to support your teen dancer’s food choices without creating tension
Imagine this: your teen dancer comes home after a long day of school and rehearsal, grabs a slice of cake, and sits down at the table. Before you can stop yourself, you say—“Shouldn’t you have something healthier?”

Melissa
Aug 204 min read


why a perfect meal plan doesn't exist (especially) for dancers
The power of flexibility, sustainability, and realistic fueling.
When dancers come to me for nutrition support, one of the first things they ask is:
“Can you just tell me exactly what to eat?”

Melissa
Jul 162 min read


let's talk about sugar
What dancers need to know about sugar, energy, and fueling smartly—not fearfully.

Melissa
Jun 143 min read


beyond the headlines: why dancers deserve more than a 'plus size future'
Ballet’s future isn’t tied to one body type. Discover why true body diversity, fueling, and support—not size alone—are key to dancer longevity and artistry.

Melissa
Apr 294 min read


an open letter to dance teachers: what will your students remember?
A letter to dance educators about the impact of their words on dancers’ body image, fueling habits, and long-term confidence—plus how to break the cycle.

Melissa
Apr 143 min read


3 things getting me through the spring season (as a dancer + nutritionist)
A personal peek at what’s grounding, fueling, and supporting me right now. Spring is beautiful… and busy. Between rehearsals, schedule...

Melissa
Apr 113 min read


why I say 'balance' instead of 'moderation'
If you've followed my content for a while, you’ve probably noticed that I use the word balance when talking about dancer nutrition—but...

Melissa
Mar 74 min read


nutrition advice red flags 🚩
Not all nutrition advice is good advice. Learn how to spot red flags in nutrition advice so you can fuel smarter as a dancer—without the con

Melissa
Mar 43 min read


creatine for dancers: my personal experiment (and why I stopped taking it)
Does creatine work for dancers? After 45 days of supplementing with creatine, I saw strength gains—but also unexpected side effects. Here’s

Melissa
Feb 173 min read


stress + nutrition: how dancers can stay calm under pressure
Dancers thrive on the stage, but the pressures of performance and long hours of rehearsals can take a toll both physically and mentally. Whi

Melissa
Oct 8, 20244 min read


what dancers cannot control during casting season: embracing food freedom + letting go
Casting season can stir up a mix of emotions—excitement, anxiety, and sometimes frustration. As dancers, it’s natural to want to control eve

Melissa
Oct 1, 20242 min read


what dancers can control during casting season: focus on fueling, self-care, and balance
Casting season can bring excitement, anticipation, and sometimes stress. While it’s easy to get caught up in factors that feel out of your c

Melissa
Sep 24, 20243 min read


navigating the anti-diet movement
You are all probably pretty familiar with the Anti-Diet Movement - a movement of nutrition and wellness professionals who endorse concepts l

Melissa
Apr 9, 20242 min read


you are what you eat - my thoughts
Upon first glance, I admit to emitting an audible groan when this documentary, "You Are What You Eat: A Twin Experiment," appeared in my Net

Melissa
Jan 16, 20246 min read


dance into 2024: resolutions for dancers
Welcome to a new year filled with possibilities, fellow dancers! As the social media wave of New Year's Resolutions continues to roll throug

Melissa
Jan 3, 20243 min read


decoding bmi: what you need to know about body mass index
BMI, or Body Mass Index, is a term frequently tossed around in discussions about health and obesity. But what exactly is BMI, and does it tr

Melissa
Sep 26, 20233 min read


embracing true health: beyond body weight
Understanding the intricate relationship between nutrients, performance, and the demands of dance and athleticism is crucial. However, let’s

Melissa
Jun 28, 20233 min read
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