A woman who has turned around the lives of numerous Teignmouth residents has expanded her wellness business after launching in Newton Abbot on Saturday (January 10).

The Teign Nutrition Club, which offers members a tailored plan of community support coaching, nutrition and exercise plans, was formally opened at Bridge House on Courtenay Street by Newton Abbot mayor councillor Colin Parker.

Bonita Curtis set up The Teign Nutrition Club after she lost 30 kilos when she joined a similar initiative in Exeter and learnt about nutrition and exercise and how simple lifestyle changes could make a huge difference.

‘After going through the early menopause, having my gallbladder removed and then having a hysterectomy, I piled the weight on and nothing seemed to help,’ Bonita explained. She took up the offer of a free wellness evaluation when she was 50 and discovered that her metabolic age was that of a 65-year-old and that her visceral fat was dangerously high.

Being part of a supportive community and adapting to a healthier diet and exercise plan ‘transformed’ her life. ‘I ate more than before but lost weight,’ she said. ‘It helped me understand what food does for the body,’ she added. ‘I felt so much better.’

The Teign Nutrition Club is a friendly, supportive community where participants can lose weight, gain muscle, improve their health or simply feel better day-to-day.

The Newton Abbot base will host daily breakfast clubs and one-to-one sessions.

At the official opening, visitors enjoyed fizz, canapés and product samples and were able to meet and chat with current members who have benefited from the club.

‘This wasn’t just a launch,’ Bonita commented, ‘it’s the start of a local wellness community built around support, education and long-term health.’