Healthy, Happy, Allergy-Friendly: Tips from Clarify Wellness’ Carlee

I’m so excited to share an interview with my close childhood friend, Carlee — a Nutrition Health Coach who specializes in Emotional Eating, Weight Management, and Hormone Health. As many of us know, these areas often connect with living with food allergies, too. That’s why I asked Carlee a few questions that overlap in both of our worlds — finding joy in food and nutrition while also staying safe and confident in what we can and can’t eat.

Take a peek below at some of the areas we cover—and feel free to reach out to either of us if you have more questions. You’ll find contact info at the end of the blog 🖤

Can you give a short introduction about yourself as a Nutrition Health Coach?
Hi, I’m Carlee! I’m a Nutrition Health Coach specializing in emotional eating, food freedom, and weight management. I help people simplify nutrition and build a balanced relationship with food—without stress or restriction. After going through my own struggles with weight and my relationship with food, I realized how powerful healing could be. That journey inspired me to start my business, Clarify Wellness with Carlee, where I now offer virtual coaching to support others on their path to food freedom and lasting wellness. I also have a few allergies and food restrictions myself, which has helped me connect even more with Jess!

What’s one common misconception about allergy-friendly diets?
One big misconception is that allergy-friendly diets are boring or that they “stop” you from living. I believe anyone can thrive with allergies—it’s all about finding what works for you. At first, getting diagnosed with an allergy can feel really scary, almost like the end of the world. But once you lean into creativity and discover simple swaps, it feels a lot less restrictive and a lot more empowering.

Are there any nutrients you worry about your clients missing because of food allergies?
Definitely. When food groups are cut out, it can be harder to get certain nutrients. Common allergies like dairy, gluten, or nuts can decrease intake of calcium, vitamin D, or B vitamins, all of which are crucial for your body. But there’s always a way to fill those gaps—and it doesn’t have to rely solely on supplements. It’s about finding other foods you can add in to increase these nutrients.

What are your go-to strategies for creating meals that are both allergy-safe and nutrient-rich?
I love teaching clients simple swaps so they don’t feel overwhelmed. I help them understand how to build a balanced plate even with allergies, including how macronutrients work together. For example, nuts are a great source of healthy fats, but there are plenty of other options for someone with a nut allergy. It’s also important to learn ingredient labels and find brands that cater to specific allergies—this makes navigating an allergy-friendly diet much easier and less stressful.

What’s your best advice for someone starting a nutrient-packed, allergy-friendly diet?
Start small and focus on what you can eat rather than what you can’t—this mindset shift alone can take away so much stress. Make a “safe list” of brands and foods you know work for your body and keep it handy. It’s also super helpful to carry allergy-friendly snacks with you so you always have something safe to grab.

What’s your favorite allergy-friendly meal or snack that’s surprisingly nutritious and delicious?
It depends on the allergy, but for a client with a nut allergy, I often recommend an apple with a seed butter they can enjoy, topped with some nut-free granola for extra flavor. For clients with gluten allergies, I usually suggest gluten-free crackers, like Simple Mills, paired with cheese and turkey pepperoni. Both are comforting, satisfying, and packed with nutrients!

Where can the audience follow you or reach out?
You can connect with me on Instagram, visit my website, or email me at carlee@clarifywellness.com. I share tips, swaps, and support for anyone looking to feel their best—whether you’re navigating food allergies or just want to eat more mindfully.

I hope this Q&A gave you some fresh ideas and encouragement for your own journey. If you have more questions, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’d love to support you. Carlee’s contact info is above, and you can always connect with me here or over on Instagram at @jessicajessnyc 🖤