Deb Oleynik
Health and Wellness Specialist
Licensed Naturopathic Doctor, Montana
 

We all have at least one moment in time when an idea can change the course of our life forever. My life changing idea was to go back to school in my thirties. I had been working at the Monterey Bay Aquarium and the world of science fascinated me for the first time in my life. Health and nutrition had been an interest of mine for many years so health sciences became my pursuit.

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I moved to the state of Washington and received a Doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine from Bastyr University. Subsequent to graduating in 2000, I worked as a primary care practitioner for 12 years in Great Falls, Montana.  I am passionate about helping individuals achieve optimal health and well-being through holistic practices. Over the years, I have shared my knowledge through various outlets, including a column in Great Falls Tribune, lectures for professionals and the public, workshops on various topics, and one-on-one consultations.

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Concern about food quality and diminished access to healthy, nutrient-dense food put me on a quest to learn more for myself and for others. I started this journey by getting my hands in the soil. As co-creator of River City Harvest, Inc., a non-profit community garden organization, I developed a passion for growing food and teaching people the benefits of knowing where your food comes from. Freshly harvested produce has the most nutrients so why not grow it yourself if you have the space.

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To better understand the global food system and the challenges people have in accessing quality food I continued my educational journey. I received a Masters Degree in Food Culture and Communication from the University of Gastronomic Sciences in Pollenza, Italy. This, along with a six month organic farming apprenticeship at the Center for Agroecology and Sustainable Food Systems in Santa Cruz, California, gave me a deep understanding of not only the the global food system but how to grow food sustainably.

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The health of people depends on a healthy sustainable environment. Understanding this link between the human health system and the health system of our environment is my passion and expertise. We are all parts of a whole and need to work together to accomplish sustainable, long-term health for our bodies and our planet.

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I am committed to sharing what I have learned on this journey and helping my clients achieve optimal health. Personalized nutrition and lifestyle plans that prioritize high-quality food, healthy environments and overall wellness are my specialty.