
About me
DIGESTIVE HEALTH SPECIALIST
As a digestive health specialist, I have a particular interest in the gut microbiome and the intimate connection between gastrointestinal health and brain function. I also have extensive training and experience in supporting clients through neurological disorders, autoimmune conditions and immune health.
My scientific background has equipped me with a deep understanding of the interactions between biochemical mechanisms and the symptoms we experience. Using my knowledge and a functional medicine approach, I will help you gain a better understanding of the root cause of your symptoms and empower you to make informed and targeted changes to your diet and lifestyle.
Recognising that we are all biochemically unique, I will advise manageable steps towards optimum health, through a programme that is tailored to you.
Qualifications
BSc (Hons) in Biochemistry and MSc in Clinical Neuroscience from King’s College London
Nutritional Therapy qualification from The Institute for Optimum Nutrition
A member of the British Association for Nutrition and Lifestyle Medicine (BANT) and accredited by the Complementary & Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC)
Qualified phlebotomist, allowing blood testing to be completed during your appointment.
TESTIMONIALS
“I came to Zara after years of indigestion issues and after seeing another nutritionist. We have worked through several tests and courses of various supplements as well as Zara explaining to me how much lifestyle issues such as stress and exercise have an impact. I was really looking for a long-term lasting solution and I can honestly say Zara has not only helped with my indigestion but has given me the understanding to help myself going forward. Zara has a highly adaptable, no-nonsense approach which delivers results.”
- Gemma, London
“Zara was recommended to me by a dear friend 2 years ago because he felt I would benefit from her expertise and experience in the area of nutrition. As someone who has always believed there is a connection between what we eat and our health, I needed no prodding. From our very first meeting, up to my latest consultation via telephone recently, (given the restrictions occasioned by the Covid-19 pandemic), Zara has been very supportive and helpful, listening to me and explaining in simple terms, her recommended course of action. I always feel better and energised after speaking with Zara and for me, that is her greatest strength. She genuinely cares about how I feel and how I am getting on with my health concerns. I am delighted to recommend her services to anyone.”
- Uwa, Nigeria
“After just one consultation with Zara my knowledge of health and nutrition has completely changed. Zara took the time to understand my health concerns and research and prepare thoroughly before our consultation. Zara simplified a lot of nutritional knowledge and it all started to make sense to me. I couldn't be more grateful for the insight Zara has given me and the confidence I have since regained. I really can't recommend her enough!”
Sajedah, London
“I have had the good fortune of finally finding an exceptional nutritionist who has helped me with my issues through food and lifestyle, after having tried a few others who all gave me general advice on nutrition but nothing specific to my needs. Zara Syed’s approach is in depth and she takes a thorough interest in patients. She advised me to take specific tests followed by detailed recommendation on the foods I should consume and the reasons why. I feel better and have realised that food is truly medicine and eating the wrong type of food for one’s body is detrimental to one’s health. I am so impressed with Zara that I recommend her to my friends and colleagues who have had consultations with her and are as impressed as I am with the result of her advice.”
- Irene, London
“Having Zara as our in-house Functional Nutritionist has added real depth and value to the level of care that we can extend to our clients. Her breadth of assessment, depth of knowledge, thoughtful range of treatment programme options along with her honest, trusting and positive nature make her the perfect choice for our business and clients.”
- Elisa Withers, Founding Director of APPI Health Group
“Zara uses an evidence-based approach to functional medicine to provide you with a bespoke strategy to deal with your symptoms. I came to Zara with two auto-immune conditions and symptoms of peri-menopause. I'm feeling better and more in control already.”
Sarah, London
“I was recommended to Zara by people whose judgement I trust and I was not disappointed. I found that the breadth and depth of her knowledge is quite astonishing. It did not matter which direction we went into, she had suggestions and endless patience, while explaining how the various problems I was struggling with were connected and why. She also immediately pointed out the tests I should be having done and why and the results have shown they were indeed necessary. She advised me on how to make the most beneficial changes to my diet and I stick to that advice religiously. I feel that I am in very, very safe hands. I know that I have possibly a long road ahead of me until I am where I would like to be as far as my health is concerned, but I also know that Zara will guide and advise me all the way. I would and indeed have recommended her to friends and would do so again immediately.”
- Jutta, London
“This is the first time I have ever consulted a nutritionist and I am very happy I came to see Zara. She is extremely knowledgeable and all of her advice was tailored to fit my health needs and lifestyle. She was happy to answer my questions and discuss things rather than just give an opinionated monologue (which is what some health professionals do). She had discussed my case with my doctor beforehand and provided excellent suggestions. I am very grateful for how generous she was with her advice, her time and the attention she gave to my health concerns.”
- Umber, London (GP Referral)
“I initially went to see Zara after being diagnosed with a wheat intolerance and really not knowing how to manage my diet to ensure it was balanced. I was instantly put at ease by Zara and realised she is not driven by any fads, rather she bases her optimisation plans on scientifically proven facts. Since I have been seeing her she has given me so much information on what my body needs to function at its best. She has so much knowledge to impart and it is interesting to hear it each time we have an appointment. There is so much information out there that it is great to have someone who can advise on what is best for me and how we can achieve it. I am on the road to improving my health and wellbeing and this is very much due to all the advice I have received from Zara. I would highly recommend her.”
- Felicity, London
“Zara has been very helpful and is an incredibly knowledgeable Nutritionist. She recommended personalised and balanced meal plans to support my health and lifestyle, as opposed to another faddy ‘diet’. This has effectively helped me achieve my goals in a sustainable way! In addition to her advice, she provided a variety of exciting recipes to support my nutritional needs, while also taking into account my lifestyle. Zara has always been reachable and very approachable when I sought advice after our session. I would highly recommend her.”
- Sanpreet, London