How to turn your passion for food into a meaningful career
With a background as a professional chef and a passion for food as medicine, Sara Zeyad Borley brings a unique blend of culinary expertise and naturopathic nutrition to her role as Natural Chef Course Director at CNM.
Her journey began with a desire to explore the healing power of food, which led her to complete a Diploma in Naturopathic Nutrition at CNM, followed by an MSc in Culinary Innovation Management from Le Cordon Bleu and Birkbeck University.
At CNM London, Sara leads the Natural Chef Diploma, overseeing the curriculum, guiding course development and supporting students throughout their training. She works closely with the teaching team to ensure the course is both practical and aligned with current industry and nutritional standards.
In this Q&A, Sara shares insights from her role as Course Director, what aspiring Natural Chefs can expect from CNM’s transformative course, and the careers available after graduation.
What is a Natural Chef?
A Natural Chef is trained in a nutrition-focused culinary programme that combines practical cooking skills with an in-depth understanding of the therapeutic power of food. Unlike traditional chefs who focus mainly on taste and presentation, Natural Chefs create meals designed to support the body’s natural healing processes and promote overall wellbeing. At CNM, training begins with core modules on how the body works and the principles of everyday nutrition. Students then move on to hands-on culinary skills such as knife techniques, stocks, sauces and recipe development, while learning how different ingredients can be used to nourish and restore health. In essence, a Natural Chef blends the art of cooking with naturopathic nutrition – creating food that is not only delicious, but deeply nourishing and health-supportive.
How do Natural Chefs use food as medicine?
Natural Chefs are trained to understand how specific nutrients and ingredients support the body’s systems. They use food intentionally to promote healing – whether it’s through anti-inflammatory herbs, gut-supportive broths or meals that help balance blood sugar. With techniques like fermentation, sprouting and gentle cooking, they enhance both the nutrient density and therapeutic value of each dish, while still prioritising flavour and presentation.
What naturopathic principles underpin the way food is grown, prepared and cooked in the course?
The Natural Chef philosophy begins with mindful sourcing – prioritising organic, seasonal, and sustainably grown produce that’s minimally processed. In the kitchen, we apply traditional preparation methods like soaking, fermenting and low-temperature cooking to boost nutrient availability and aid digestion
How is CNM’s Natural Chef diploma different to other courses?
CNM’s Natural Chef diploma stands out by blending hands-on chef training with naturopathic nutrition. Taught by expert tutors, the course combines culinary skills with a deep understanding of how food supports health. With practical experience, internships, and flexible study options in London or online worldwide, it’s ideal for anyone ready to turn a passion for food and wellness into a career.
Who is the course suitable for? Do you need prior experience in cooking or nutrition?
The course suits everyone from beginners to those already in food or wellness – all you need is a passion for food, a love of learning and a desire to positively impact health through nutrition.
What careers do graduates pursue after the diploma?
Graduates pursue diverse careers, often launching businesses as retreat chefs, private chefs, supper club hosts, or food product developers. Others work with nutritionists or in education, food writing or recipe development. There are so many opportunities, and the industry is growing – it’s a fantastic time to get into natural cheffing.
What’s your advice for aspiring Natural Chefs?
If you’re passionate about health, nutrition and culinary creativity, the CNM Natural Chef course offers a unique opportunity to turn that passion into a meaningful career. CNM is a leader in naturopathic education, and this course empowers you with the tools and knowledge to make a real difference, in your own life and in the lives of others, through the healing power of food.
Ready to turn your passion for food and wellness into a rewarding career?
Discover more about CNM’s Natural Chef Diploma and how it can transform your future. Visit our course page to learn more or book your place at an upcoming open day today!
