Nutrition
Hello, my name is Hayden Thrasher! As your LMU dining registered dietitian, I provide health and wellness support. Wellness is a special topic because it means something different to each person, we all have needs that are uniquely our own, and I love celebrating this diversity! I am here as a resource to help support and connect you with options that meet your needs, whether you have food allergies, celiac disease, are an athlete, are interested in plant-based options, or are interested in general health and wellness topics. My goal is to help create a positive health culture where your food choice options and eating habits aid in increased mental and physical health, personal and academic growth, community, and a joyful college experience. I take a non-diet, “all foods fit” approach to nutrition and health and love teaching students about intuitive eating and debunking nutrition myths and fads.
I am available for student consultations on topics such as:
- Food allergies, celiac disease, diabetes, or other special dietary needs
- Eating healthy on campus
- Vegan and vegetarian nutrition
- Weight management
I can’t wait to work with you. Please feel free to reach out to me with questions at Hayden.Thrasher@sodexo.com.
Coming soon- The Everyday App
Your guide to dining with food allergies here at Loyola Marymount University
Food Allergies
Basics to help you succeed
- Eat regularly – When you get to school, take time to figure out a meal pattern that works for you – this may look different from how you previously ate at home! Aim to eat every 3-4 hours or focus on three meals and a few snacks daily.
- Focus on the five components of a satisfying meal
- Carbohydrates, Protein, Fat, Volume, and Pleasure
- Not only does the body want carbohydrates, protein, and fat for a satisfying meal, but it also wants enough volume and pleasure to feel full.
- Volume – How much food you need to feel full and energized isn’t static! For the most part, you’ll want to feel a slight roundness or full sensation in your stomach without feeling physical discomfort.
- Pleasure – think tasty sauces, finishing a meal with something sweet, adding cheese, different herbs or spice blends, or adding flavor boosters like crumbled bacon, toasted nuts, olives, or sun-dried tomatoes.
- Try new foods – likely you’ll have access to foods you’ve never tried before; try them out! College is a great time to learn your personal food preferences.
- Avoid labeling foods as “good” or “bad” – and instead acknowledge the nuances of food – energy, a form of self-care, a way to connect with others, pleasure, cultural expression, etc.
- Engage in joyful movement - movement can increase energy and help you decompress mentally and physically.
- Identify ways to relieve stress – listen to music, schedule study breaks with friends, and try a guided meditation through apps like Calm or Headspace.