Does food have the power to heal? “Absolutely!” says San Francisco–based food therapist Kristin Hoppe. Having struggled with her weight, depression, and fatigue since childhood, Hoppe developed a passion for cooking and nutrition after a yearlong trip around the world with her husband. During her travels she ate only local, seasonal, whole foods and discovered the power of community. Upon her return to the United States, she enrolled in the Holistic Nutrition and Culinary program at Bauman College in Berkeley, Calif., and is now the founder and director of Food Therapy, a holistic nutrition coaching and education company. In a recent interview, Hoppe divulged one of her favorite recipes, explained the importance of a rainbow diet, and dissected America’s eating habits.

What is Food Therapy?

Food Therapy is a holistic nutrition program that will transform a person’s relationship with food. The program educates and coaches people to choose foods that support the health, vitality, and nourishment of themselves, their communities, and the earth.

Is there a relationship between food and our moods?

Yes, the food we choose to eat can support our moods and mental focus. Certain foods contain the nutrients we need to create the chemicals in our brains that make us happy, easy-going, and stress-free. On the flip side, there are many foods, like processed foods, that can deplete us of these key nutrients.

What is the most common problem in people’s diets?

Sugar and refined carbohydrates. They are both very addictive and difficult to reduce or give up, from both a biochemical and an emotional standpoint. I work with people to balance their diets and diminish cravings.

What types of food do you recommend that people eat?

Organic, seasonal, whole foods are the foundation of the personalized nutrition strategy I use with clients. Whole foods are unrefined and unprocessed and include fresh vegetables and fruits; lean, clean proteins such as organic chicken, eggs, and fish; whole grains such as brown rice and quinoa; and healthy fats such as olive oil and avocado. I always recommend eating from the rainbow to ensure you’re getting a wide range of nutrients. And drink plenty of water!

What’s your favorite recipe?

I love tomatoes! Heirloom tomatoes are just coming into season and are so flavorful. Chop some up with a little fresh basil, fresh garlic, olive oil, and salt and pepper for a delicious, simple seasonal tomato salad. It’s a perfect start to your meal or a healthy snack.

Can food be used to heal?

What observations have you made about Americans’ diets versus those of other countries?

After returning to the U.S. from my year traveling abroad, I noticed how quickly and how much we eat and how often it is from a pre-prepared package. In other countries, meals are a time to connect with each other and building community. Taking the time to prepare meals, sit down with loved ones and neighbors, and thoroughly chew and savor the food unfortunately seems like a thing of the past here in America. I also observed that other cultures tend to eat what is local, fresh, in season, and in reasonable portion sizes.

What do you say to people who say they can’t cook or don’t have enough time to?

Slow down! Take a cooking class. Be patient with yourself, take it slow, and cook one meal per week to start—you may even find you enjoy it! If you can’t slow down, try a personal chef service that offers healthy meals. I offer cooking classes as part of my program.

How do you feel about eating organically?

Choosing organic whenever possible is very important. Not only are you supporting your own health by eating as cleanly as possible without pesticides, you are also supporting the health of the earth. Pesticides are destroying our earth’s natural eco-system, and I feel it is important to support farmers who do not use these chemical pollutants. The Environmental Working Group publishes a shopper’s guide to pesticides in produce that is available on the Web.

What are three things people can do today to change their overall diet and lifestyle?

One, eat a substantial protein-rich breakfast within one hour of waking. This jump-starts your metabolism, sets the tone for the day ahead, and will help prevent the post-lunch energy slump. Two, fill your plate with vegetables that are from all colors of the rainbow. It’s the easiest way to ensure you are getting all the nutrients you need. Three, in order to reduce sugars, refined carbohydrates, and food additives, stay away from anything that comes in a package. In doing so, you will improve your mood and energy levels.

Kristin Hoppe can be contacted by e-mail or by phone at 415-407-7339.

~Laci Chiodo