I have significant experience supporting clients with weight-related concerns through my work in two different family health teams, where this was a common reason for referral. My approach is anti-diet and focuses on balanced eating, portion awareness, the plate method, and strategies rooted in mindful eating.
Balanced eating has been central to much of my work in primary care, cardiac rehabilitation, and the Diabetes Prevention Strategy at Toronto Public Health. In these roles, I often used practical tools like the plate model to help clients build sustainable eating habits that support long-term health.
Melinda Lamarche
Online Vegetarian Dietitian Practicing Across Ontario & British Columbia
Hi! I'm Melinda, I have been vegetarian since I was 13, so I bring both clinical knowledge and real-life experience to my work with plant-based individuals and families.
I support pregnant and lactating clients using both my professional knowledge and personal experience. This can include helping clients understand their nutrition needs during pregnancy, manage nausea and vomiting, and support adequate nutrition during breastfeeding.
I have supported both adults and children with digestive concerns, including IBS symptoms, bloating, and constipation. My goal is to help clients better understand their symptoms and find realistic nutrition strategies that support digestive comfort.
Toddler/ Child / Adolescent Nutrition
For the past 7 years, my work has focused strongly on pediatrics through my private practice. I have supported families with starting solids, growth faltering, picky eating, sensory feeding concerns, allergies, celiac disease, ADHD, and other nutrition-related needs.
I helped roll out the Craving Change program at the Etobicoke Medical Centre Family Health Team and have continued to build my knowledge through the work of Megrette Fletcher, Evelyn Tribole, and Elyse Resch. This has shaped the way I support clients in building a more flexible and positive relationship with food.
About Melinda Lamarche, Vegetarian Registered Dietitian
Master of Science in Community Health – University of Toronto
Bachelor of Applied Sciences in Food and Nutrition
Dietetic Internship – University Health Network
20 years of experience as a Registered Dietitian
Culinary training from Liaison College
Postpartum doula training
Lactation for Birthworkers training
Working toward IBCLC certification
Licensed to practice in Ontario: #10625
Licensed to practice in British Columbia: #1035330
Melinda and Her Journey with Plant-Based Nutrition
What motivated you to become a dietitian?
I have known I wanted to become a dietitian since I was 14.
I have always loved food and been fascinated by how it fuels the body. I also genuinely love eating, creating recipes, cooking, and baking, so nutrition felt like the perfect mix of science, food, and helping people.
Why are you plant-based?
How would you describe your approach?
I would describe my approach as balanced, realistic, and focused on progress rather than perfection. I try to make nutrition science feel less overwhelming for individuals and families, and I help them identify small, doable changes that can still make a meaningful difference.
Even small shifts can impact how someone feels, their relationship with food, and the way they support a positive food environment for their children and family.
Get the most out of your plant-based lifestyle with Melinda’s help!