Molly Knauer MS, RD, Mother | Treating Food As Medicine and Treasuring the Moment
Meet Molly Knauer — registered dietitian, consultant, and creator behind Molly’s Best based in New York City. Molly shares some of her favorite recipes, how she’s used her own health journey to empower others, and the importance of being present.
Photo by Molly Knauer, artwork by The Purple Thread
Share a little bit about yourself & your current work.
I am a registered dietitian, mom of 2-year-old Maxie, and pregnant with my second! Within my private practice, I guide clients towards a sustainable and healthy approach to food and how to nourish their bodies. I also work as a consultant for brands in the food, wellness, and beauty space.
My interest began after being diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis in high school. Despite doctors telling me that diet was not associated with my disease, I was on a mission to understand how food affected how I felt. I knew there was a connection and was determined to figure out how to feel better.
I began cooking healthy meals for my family, and I loved how it felt to bring loved ones together through food. I truly believe that the best memories are made in the kitchen or around the dinner table.
What is a defining moment that drew a clear before & after line in the sand for you? How did it “light the way” for you going forward?
As a registered dietitian with my master’s in clinical nutrition, my career path began working with chronically ill patients.
It was while working in a hospital that I realized I wanted to give people the tools and education to not only prevent these chronic illnesses but to strive towards the best version of themselves.
I didn't just want to get patients out of the hospital, I wanted to empower them to take charge of their health.
There is nothing better than helping a client attain the confidence and energy needed to tackle their life’s passions.
What is new & good in your world that you’re eager to share?
I love sharing recipes, wellness tips, and anything I learn about parenting via social media. I would love to connect with you!
Click the photos for favorite recipes throughout the seasons.
Chickpea Blondies
Kale Salad
Summer Snacks
Carrot Muffins
What kind of role does community play in your life?
It is so important to feel part of a larger community and give back. I have recently gotten involved with my local community center, as well as City Harvest and Planned Parenthood, which are amazing organizations!
When do you feel most alive?
After a good dance cardio workout or when surrounded by my family or best friends. I am an extrovert and while I definitely need alone time, I feel energized being around my loved ones. I especially love good quality girl time!
How do you make time for what matters to you, deciding what to focus on, what can wait, and what can be let go of entirely?
When I had Maxie, I had "mom guilt" in the worst way.
When I was with her I would feel like I should be working and when I was working I felt guilty not being with her. I always felt stretched thin and pulled in a million directions. I wanted to stay on top of my career but also be a good mom, friend, and wife.
I now really try to be present in whatever I am doing.
I learned that quality time with Maxie is more important than quantity so when I am with her I try to put my phone away and really be present. Having that really good quality time with her makes me feel better about being away from her and focusing on work. It was even harder for me to not feel guilty about “me time" but I realized that when I can recharge with self-care, spending time with friends or alone with my husband, it makes me a much better mom.
I've gotten more organized by — making lists, delegating, and saying no to some opportunities that don't really excite me so I can focus on what matters. I learned that when you start saying "no" to things that don't ignite you, more doors open up for opportunities that truly align with your passions.
What’s a book you think others would benefit from reading & why?
I recently read “Many Lives, Many Masters" and found it totally life-changing.
If you have dealt with the death of a loved one or have any fear or anxiety about death and dying (who doesn't?!) I really recommend it!
What’s your ideal way to start & end your day?
Ideally, meditation.
I am much more grounded, present, and focused when I meditate for 5-10 minutes at the start and end of each day. It is something I would really like to be more dedicated to!
I also love to get a workout in the morning as it gives me so much energy.
Who is someone you admire & how do you strive to act in a way that they would?
I have always been a people-pleaser, and it is the personality trait I work hardest to change.
I admire my husband because he doesn't make decisions based on other people's feelings or opinions and always approaches conflict directly. As someone who avoids conflict like the plague, I always ask him for advice and a confidence boost when I am put in a situation that makes me nervous or uncomfortable!
Leave us with a ray of light. A simple reminder that grounds you or helps you through.
This past year has taught me how magical and rewarding it is to slow down and treasure the small moments of every day that we usually are too rushed to notice.
"You are perfectly on time."
All photos provided by Molly Knauer.