I’m Carolyn (Spooner) Jackson, a registered dietitian, and founder of Spooner Nutrition, an online dietetic practice. I have 16 years of experience as a dietitian, predominately working in the NHS and in more recent years private practice and freelance. I'm based in Newcastle upon-Tyne, North East England.

My specialised services encompass diabetes management during pregnancy, tailored nutritional guidance for type 1 or type 2 diabetes, professional recommendations for reducing blood glucose levels, nutritional counselling for heart health, cholesterol, and blood pressure, as well as recipe modifications to promote healthier eating habits.

My love for food and science ignited long before pursuing a career as a dietitian. While still in high school, I delved into the culinary world by taking on a part-time role at a quaint restaurant in North Wales, where I assisted chefs with fundamental food preparation. I then went onto work in another two restaurants, earning a NVQ in food preparation and catering along the way. This experience laid a solid groundwork for mastering culinary essentials like crafting soup from scratch using a roux, developing rich meat stocks, and flawlessly frying eggs during bustling breakfast shifts.

While thriving in the culinary world, I realised my yearning for the scientific and health aspects of food. After six years in the culinary realm, I made the decision to retire my chef whites and focus entirely on pursuing a degree in nutrition and dietetics.

In 2008, I became a registered dietitian and embarked on a diverse career within the NHS. My journey has encompassed roles in adult weight management tier 3 programmes, oral nutrition support on the wards and community setting, and my true passion diabetes. I have had the privilege of collaborating with accomplished doctors, nurses, psychologists, and esteemed dietitians.

As well as working freelance, I currently work as a Lead Primary Care Network Dietitian specialising in diabetes within the NHS.