Sumi Tohan

Growing up, my family referred to me fondly as Cookie Monster. My mother would offer us juice or milk, and just as sure as my siblings would choose the cloying yet tart apple juice, I would opt for a glass of velvety, rich milk. Unfortunately, I can’t say it was because I was an astute child concerned about my bone density. The truth was I had discovered the perfect compliment: a homemade chocolate chip cookie. While all the other girls were taking ballet lessons after school, I practiced my own routine of sifting, beating, and mixing. After taking the pan out of the oven, I would break apart a cookie to inspect the chocolate morsels speckled throughout. I wondered what the cookie contained that always made me feel content. If I couldn’t sleep at night, I would sneak into the kitchen and eat spoonfuls of dough in the dark. If I had a rough time with my classmates at school, I would come home and find the only companions I needed were Ginger(snap) and (Pecan) Sandy. Whatever my problem was, it seemed the solution could be found at the bottom of the cookie jar.

Soon enough, however, the cookie itself became the problem. I was an overweight, inactive and reclusive child. Ready for a change, I exchanged my baking utensils for a pair of sneakers. Running became my regular after school activity, and I began to nourish my body with wholesome foods to fuel my runs. In addition, I even took a few ballet classes to make up for the ones I had missed. After having embarked on this lifestyle change, I decided to pursue a career that would allow me to inspire others to do the same. During my training to become a registered dietitian, I was amazed to discover that the cookies I relied on for happiness actually contained components proven to elevate mood, such as serotonin-producing carbohydrates and chocolate filled with natural opiates. I seek media opportunities that allow me to express my passion for wellness and fulfill my desire to empower others with nutrition knowledge.