Don't rush to go vegan, says nutrition guru

Dropping meat for a vegan diet is a big stress and can take time, says nutrition guru Angela Clucas.

The entrepreneur and LJMU Master’s graduate fears sudden changes in diet can be hard to, well, swallow, and recommends a “small steps” approach.

“I advise a lot of clients on transitioning to plant-based diets, many of whom are nervous about it, and my advice is always to be comfortable about changes you make. Eating well, healthily or ethically is about changing habits not about prohibition.”

Angela, who runs her own business - Next Level Nutrition – and graduated in MSc Sport Nutrition in 2018 also recommends people steer clear of fads, like Keto of Whole30.

Lifestyle

She says her approach to her list of around 70 clients is to embed changes in lifestyle, not specifically to diet: “People come to me about weight loss, weight gain, transition to vegan and more and the advice is always to make a small change here, another there. There’s no point making changes if you’re not happy living with them day-to-day.”

Angela, who runs Next Level Nutrition out of the Isle of Man, first decided to go into business while still at Uni, and approached the LJMU Centre for Entrepreneurship for support.

The Centre – part of the Careers & Employability Service – helps around 100 students each year with their plans to set themselves up in business.

“I only approached them towards the end of my Masters and got £2,000* to help me buy equipment. I didn’t even know the service was available until then. They were amazingly encouraging and full of practical tips.”

Alma mater visit

Speaking to students back at LJMU this week, as part of a careers event for her former department, Sport & Exercise Science, the 37-year-old urged those with a business idea to get in touch with the Centre.

“One of the most important things in making a successful go of it, is reaching out for help and not being afraid to ask for it.

“Also, while you’re at Uni, take advantage of as many things as possible: sign up for everything you can – networking, volunteering, whatever, because it all build skills that are useful in business.

“I’ve learned many important lessons, but maybe the biggest it to be adaptable. When I started off I was working 14 hour days and only earning £25k, now I work 4 days a week and earn double that. You have to know you’re worth and when to say ‘Yes’ and when to say ‘No’.”

* Funded by the Bathgate Academy Start-Up Fund