About

About Sarah Harper

Flexitarian Dietitian and Creator of The Addy Bean

Welcome! I’m Sarah Harper MS, RD, and this is The Addy Bean, a Flexitarian Living and Food Blog!

Here, I celebrate the joys of flexitarian living, a balanced, plant-forward approach to eating that embraces variety, flavor, and sustainability. Whether you’re here to find creative recipes, practical nutrition tips, or inspiration for a healthier lifestyle, I’m thrilled to share this journey with you.

Sarah Harper in her kitchen with a cutting board, broccoli, carrots, and a fruit bowl.

Quick Info

  • Location: Pascific Northwest
  • Age: 35
  • Credentials: Registered Dietitian, Licensed Nutritionist, Certified Yoga Teacher (200hr-RYT)
  • Education: B.S. in Dietetics – Indiana University of Pennsylvania 2012; M.S. in Nutritional Science – University of Rhode Island 2015; Thesis: Targeting Obesogenic Behaviors: Pilot Testing a Modified EFNEP Curriculum
  • Years working as a Registered Dietitian: 11
  • Years Working in the Nutrition and Food Industry: 18
  • Previous Nutrition and Food Industry Experience: Clinical Nutrition Manager at FutureCare, a Clinical Dietitian at Healthcare Services Group, and a Diet Clerk at The Villages at Rockville. Before becoming a Registered Dietitian, I gained hands-on experience as a Bakery Assistant and Waitress, and even worked as a Farm Hand at Matunuck Farm in Rhode Island. These roles, combined with my Master’s in Nutrition, have given me a well-rounded perspective on food, from farm to table and beyond.
  • Favorite Recipes:
  • Fun Fact About Me: I’m a hybrid athlete who stays active year-round with running, yoga, weightlifting, and winter sports like cross-country skiing and snowboarding.

 

Sarah running with her dog Huey on a snowy path

 

My Mission

At The Addy Bean, I’m here to inspire and empower you to embrace a Flexitarian lifestyle with simple, nutritious, and flavorful meals.

My goal is to help you live a healthy, happy, and environmentally conscious life, one recipe at a time!

 

What is Flexitarian?

A Flexitarian living emphasizes plant-based meals while allowing for moderate amounts of meat and dairy offering a flexible and sustainable way to eat.

As a Flexitarian Dietitian, I’ve been embracing and advocating for this balanced approach to eating since 2013. My philosophy celebrates the best of both worlds, prioritizing nutrient-rich, plant-forward meals while including animal products in a way that feels flexible, guilt-free, and mindful of sustainability. This lifestyle encourages variety, creativity, and satisfaction, all essential for cultivating a healthy and joyful relationship with food.
Curious to learn more about what it means to eat like a Flexitarian? Check out my Flexitarian Resources page.Want to work with me? Contact me here!

Sarah Harper Photo_side profile

More Background Information

Credentials

I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN)

To ensure that I stay current and up-to-date in my field, I prioritize continuous learning. As a registered dietitian, I commit to completing 75 hours of continuing education every 5 years, ensuring that I stay well-informed about the latest research and advancements in nutrition.

Experience

  • Registered Dietitian (10 years) – Completed 1,200+ supervised practice hours and passed the national RD exam.
  • Clinical Dietitian (6+ years full-time) – Extensive experience in patient care and nutrition counseling.
  • Freelance Writer & Contributor:
    • Columbia Gorge News – Covers food, health, and community topics in the Mid-Columbia and Columbia River Gorge regions.
    • Hood River Eats – Showcases the Columbia River Gorge’s culinary scene, featuring local restaurants and food culture.