Behind the Rose: Keeping Up with Sonia Sharma on Food Policy

When I last spoke with Sonia Sharma, MPH, she reflected on her reality TV experience and the delicate balance between her professional ambitions and her personal happiness.

In the first interview I had with Sonia, she acknowledged, “Reality TV has taught me that navigating the delicate balance between professional and personal life is essential, but it’s important to prioritize what feels right for you. I have ambitious career goals and passions that I aspire to pursue, but I recognize that I cannot achieve them with a half-empty glass.”

This time around, Sonia looks back on her time in The Bachelor with a deeper and more expanded purpose: she continues to be a fierce advocate for food policy. So, since the first time I met with Sonia, what has she learned about food reform, and why does health education remain an important cause for her? Sonia and I delve into the things that matter most — our physical and mental well-being — and how we can all make an effort toward a healthy lifestyle. It’s a pleasure to interview Sonia Sharma for Social Lifestyle Magazine. Sonia shared her perspective:

Meghan Forte:  The last time we spoke, you mentioned food policy reform. Have you taken any concrete steps or started any collaborations toward that goal since then?

Sonia Sharma: Yes! I’ve been in touch with a couple of nonprofits working on nutrition equity and sustainable agriculture and just seeing where I might fit in. I’m still at the med spa for now, but I’ve been trying to bring more of a public health lens into the space. Even little things like chatting with clients about gut health or stress management while they’re getting treatments… It’s a start, and it feels good to connect the dots between beauty and real wellness.

Meghan Forte:  What’s one project, cause, or goal you haven’t tackled yet but feel excited to pursue in the next chapter of your life or career?

Sonia Sharma: I’m trying to create a nonprofit initiative that connects mental health education with nutrition access. 

Meghan Forte: Can you share a recent moment at your current job when you thought, Yes, this is why I do this — particularly in terms of helping others?

Sonia Sharma: When I saw that Skittles is finally phasing out titanium dioxide, it felt like a small but real win. It’s one of those moments where you think, okay, maybe the conversation around food safety is actually starting to shift. It’s a reminder that change is possible — even with big companies — and it makes me want to keep pushing.

Meghan Forte: Would you consider using your platform from The Bachelor to raise awareness about health equity or food safety? If so, how? For instance, do you have

aspirations to return to television for a health-based cause or campaign?

Sonia Sharma: For sure. I’ve been thinking about how to use the platform in a way that feels authentic — even just bringing public health into interviews or everyday conversations helps make the topic more relatable. I’ve also started working with Cosmetic Rx, which has been a cool way to merge beauty, accessibility, and real health education. It’s all about meeting people where they are.

Meghan Forte:  Have you thought about launching a blog, podcast, or social media series that

blends your reality TV experience with your public health advocacy?

Sonia Sharma: Yes! I’m actually working with a few people on a podcast and some social content — TikTox, reels, that kind of thing — that blends pop culture with public health. Think Bachelor tea mixed with real conversations about food deserts, wellness myths, and health equity. The goal is to keep it fun but also grounded in facts, so it actually reaches people and sticks.

Meghan Forte:  Has your understanding of the gut-brain connection influenced any changes in your personal habits or daily routine?

Sonia Sharma: Definitely. I’ve started being more intentional with what I eat — more fiber, probiotic foods, just trying to keep things balanced. I also try to move my body every day, even if it’s just a walk. And I’ve cut back on caffeine and screen time at night, which has honestly made a big difference in my mood and focus. Nothing crazy, just small changes that add up.

Meghan Forte:  When we last spoke, you emphasized the importance of holistic health. How do you personally take care of your mental well-being while managing a busy career and public attention?

Sonia Sharma: I try to keep therapy a regular part of my life. It’s been a game-changer for staying grounded. Lately, I’ve also been more selective about who I spend time with and how I protect my energy. I’ve learned to say no to things (and people) that leave me feeling drained, even if they look good on paper. It’s still a work in progress, but I’m getting better at putting my well-being first.

Meghan Forte: If you were approached again to join Bachelor in Paradise or a similar format, what factors would influence your decision this time around?

Sonia Sharna: I’d think about it, but only if it felt like a healthy environment and actually aligned with where I’m at now. I’d want to be able to show up as myself and use the platform for something that feels meaningful.

Sonia Sharma’s path shows that navigating fame, health, and service to community is a deeply personal journey. As she merges her platform with her passion for food policy, education, and equity, Sonia stands as a powerful reminder that the choices we make — both large and small — can collectively create a more compassionate, healthy world.

Sonia is proud to be making a positive impact in her community. Be sure to follow along on the journey, by exploring her Instagram profile! Thank you Sonia, for your interview with Social Lifestyle Magazine. 
Sonia Sharma’s Instagram Profile