A favorite of legendary photographer Mario Testino, Marcelle Bittar was part of a coterie of Brazilian models who dominated the runways in the early aughts. With sultry good looks and unrelenting sex appeal, Marcelle featured prominently in the pages of Vogue, on the runways of Europe, and in advertising campaigns for Ferragamo, Carolina Herrera, Armani and a slew of others.

In between managing an active modeling career and motherhood, Marcelle is a practitioner of integrative nutrition. In an era dominated by influencers hawking snake oil, breaking through the noise can feel hopeless. Taking an evidence-based approach to her consulting, Marcelle offers a no-nonsense alternative to trends and unfounded promises.

What drew you to study integrative nutrition after building a successful career in modeling?

After many years in the fashion industry, I realized the importance of taking care of yourself from the inside out. Becoming a mother also shifted my perspective—I wanted to understand more about how our bodies work and how to nourish them properly.  It’s not only about being skinny but about being healthy and happy with who you are. I’ve always loved learning, and integrative nutrition felt like a natural next step for me.

How did your time in the fashion industry influence your relationship with food, body image, and wellness?

The fashion world can be intense when it comes to appearance. It taught me discipline but also made me reflect deeply on what health truly means. Over time, I learned that true wellness isn’t about extremes—it’s about balance, self-respect, and listening to your body.

What does integrative nutrition mean to you, and how does it go beyond just what we eat?

To me, integrative nutrition is about seeing the person as a whole. It’s not just focusing on food, but also on emotions, sleep, stress, relationships, and lifestyle. It’s a more complete and compassionate approach to health.

Were there any personal health or lifestyle experiences that sparked your interest in nutrition and holistic wellness?

Yes, becoming a mother was a turning point. I wanted to be a better version of myself, for both me and my daughter. Also, after years of traveling and working nonstop, I felt the need to reconnect with my body and well-being in a more meaningful way.

What are some common nutritional myths or misconceptions you’ve encountered?

There are so many! One of the biggest misconceptions is the belief that being thin automatically means being healthy, and that’s simply not true. Health goes far beyond appearance. Another common myth is the idea that you need to completely cut out carbs or fats. Both are essential when chosen with quality and balance. 

And, of course, the misconception that healthy eating has to be restrictive, boring, or all about constant sacrifice. True nutrition is about nourishment, balance, and building a lifestyle that supports both physical and emotional well-being.

What impact do you think social media has had on health information?

Social media has made wellness more accessible, but also more confusing. There’s so much information and misinformation out there.

That’s why I believe it’s important to have qualified professionals sharing balanced, evidence-based guidance. Be careful who you follow!

What’s one daily wellness habit or nutritional tip you swear by that you think more people should try?

I believe everyone should start the day with presence—taking a moment to breathe deeply upon waking and setting a positive intention for the day. A big glass of water first thing in the morning is a must. Throughout the day, take care of your gut—it’s truly your best friend. Nourish your microbiome with fiber, fruits, vegetables, and fermented foods. A healthy gut means better energy, mood, immunity, and overall well-being. These small habits make a big difference in your energy, mood, and overall health.

What projects are you working on that you can share with us?

After taking some time off, I’ve recently returned to working as a model, and now I’m balancing my time between fashion, my nutrition practice, and motherhood, always making my family my top priority. I’m also focused on creating content that connects beauty, health, and lifestyle in an authentic and approachable way.

Follow Marcelle on Instagram