Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

Why combine the services of a naturopath and a personal chef?

Many people would like to improve their eating habits but find it challenging due to a lack of time or motivation. Thanks to the combined expertise of a naturopath and a personal chef, An Apple a Day is able to assist you in adopting new dietary habits with ease. Your naturopath designs a personal nutritional plan and your personal chef comes to your home to prepare delicious meals that fit this plan perfectly. It’s as simple as that! You no longer have to choose between health and taste, or spend time grocery shopping or cooking – An Apple a Day takes care of every step.

Doesn’t healthy food usually taste bland?

Eating healthy does not mean restricting one’s diet to raw carrots and soup. Eating healthy is about feeling great and preventing the aggravation or the development of illness. The most nutrient-dense foods are those grown by nature - for the simple reason that our bodies have evolved and adapted to their environment for the last 15 billion years. Those natural foods contain a plethora of biologically active molecules that taste delicious when they are prepared appropriately. At An Apple a Day, our skillfull chef crafts menus that are designed to combine both health and taste.

Questions about Naturopath services

What is the difference between a naturopath and other alternative health care practitioners (homeopath, nutritionist…)?

Our Canadian-trained naturopath has received 8 years of university education and is able to combine a wide variety of natural therapies including homeopathy, herbal medicine and lifestyle counseling. This unique and comprehensive training allows combining therapies in order to customize a treatment plan adapted to each individual and their unique health goals.

What can I expect from my first visit to a naturopath?

Your first visit lasts 75 minutes, as it is an opportunity for you and your naturopath to discuss your health goals. Your naturopath will also ask you many questions about your lifestyle and establish connections between your various symptoms. The ultimate goal is to use this information to discover the most likely root cause of your health problems and find appropriate ways to address them.

What do I need to bring on my first visit?

In order to use your consultation time optimally, we ask that you bring a few documents on your first appointment. Please fill out and print the Client Intake Form which we will send to you, and bring with you any recent blood test results or medical reports.

What can a naturopath do for me?

Naturopathy views symptoms as a sign that the body is not functioning optimally. Your naturopath takes time to understand the underlying cause of your health condition. This can be useful to help you with almost any health condition or to simply improve one’s lifestyle to prevent illness.

Will my insurance cover the costs of a consultation with a naturopath?

Some group health insurance plans provide coverage for licensed naturopathic care. Check with your insurance company whether your visits qualify for reimbursement.

Questions about Personal Chef services

What is the difference between a private chef & a personal chef?

A private chef is employed by a household full time and is often “living in”. A personal chef serves clients whenever they have the need, one session at a time. For example, in one 5 hour session, a personal chef can prepare a full week’s supply of delicious meals that are packaged and stored for enjoyment at your leisure. A personal chef can also be hired to cook for a specific private event, such as a lunch party or gastronomic dinner.

What is the difference between a caterer and a personal chef?

Unlike a caterer who prepares food in bulk on commercial premises, your personal chef cooks gourmet meals directly in your kitchen and before your own eyes. This ensures the highest quality and allows us to pay particular attention to your specific needs and tastes.

What type of cuisine do you specialize in?

Chef Valentine is French-trained and specializes in Western cooking that brings out the best of each product with modern simplicity. She can cook simple convivial meals as well as elaborate multi-course meals with French, Italian and American techniques and inspirations.

Once I have a personal chef, how will my life be different?

You’ll no longer have to ask yourself “What’s for dinner?”, nor will you have to sweat over what to cook for your party guests. By using our service that prepares your daily meals in advance, you save 6 to 18 hours per week: you no longer have to plan your meals, go grocery shopping, prepare food or clean up your kitchen. And in addition to eating home-cooked meals that taste delicious, you will also have taken the first step towards a healthier lifestyle.

Does the chef cook in my own kitchen?

Yes, we prepare all meals in your own kitchen. On the selected cooking date we bring the freshest ingredients for your meals along with our own pots, pans and utensils, and prepare everything directly at your location. At the end of the day, we leave your kitchen clean and filled with the aromas of delicious cooking!

How long does a personal chef session last?

Depending on the menu chosen, the chef will typically spend 4 to 6 hours preparing your dishes. Arrangements can be made in advance for a convenient date that fits your schedule, and you are free to decide whether or not you’d like to be at home while your Personal Chef is cooking.

How much fridge and freezer space is needed if I’d like the chef to prepare meals in advance?

It depends on the number of meals you request - we typically need at least 1 shelf each in your refrigerator and freezer.

How do I heat food that is packaged for later enjoyment?

Most meals can be placed directly in the micro-wave or the oven. Frozen meals should be defrosted overnight in your refrigerator for better results. But don’t worry - each meal is clearly labeled with easy-to-follow heating instructions.

How often do people use the personal chef service?

Depending on the number of family members and the frequency of eating at home, a weekly, biweekly or monthly service is the best option. We are happy to help you determine how often you’d like to schedule a cooking session to best suit your particular needs.

For private events, what are the minimum and maximum number of guests?

Your Personal Chef can cook a romantic dinner for two or parties for up to 10 guests.