Heart Health Nutritionists and Dietitians in N3C

Photo of Kate Young, Nutritionist/Dietitian, BASc, BComm, RD
Kate Young
Nutritionist/Dietitian, BASc, BComm, RD
2 Endorsed
Cambridge, ON N3C
I have experience working with clients on a wide variety of health conditions (e.g. heart health, digestive health (e.g. IBS), fatty liver disease, pre-diabetes and type 2 diabetes).
Are you ready to try a different approach with managing your health? As an Intuitive Eating Dietitian, I don't focus on portion sizes, calories, or rigid food rules. You can support your health while enjoying the foods you love! I didn’t always have a good relationship with my food and body, and I find so much value in working with my clients to let go of diet culture and make peace with their food and bodies. We'll work together to build sustainable changes that support your health goals. My aim is to help you find a comfortable balance between your health, joyful movement, and the simple pleasure of food.
I have experience working with clients on a wide variety of health conditions (e.g. heart health, digestive health (e.g. IBS), fatty liver disease, pre-diabetes and type 2 diabetes).
Are you ready to try a different approach with managing your health? As an Intuitive Eating Dietitian, I don't focus on portion sizes, calories, or rigid food rules. You can support your health while enjoying the foods you love! I didn’t always have a good relationship with my food and body, and I find so much value in working with my clients to let go of diet culture and make peace with their food and bodies. We'll work together to build sustainable changes that support your health goals. My aim is to help you find a comfortable balance between your health, joyful movement, and the simple pleasure of food.
(548) 901-0446 View (548) 901-0446

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Maxwell Alan Snider, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Maxwell Alan Snider
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Serves Area
My mission is to empower you to take control of your health, well-being, and athletic performance through personalized nutrition that fits seamlessly into your life. I’m passionate about working with busy adults who want to improve their health without sacrificing all their free time. If you're tired of wasting your time following restrive diets I'm here to help you find a better way. Let’s create a plan that works for you. Book a free discovery call to see if my services are the right fit for you. Virtual appointments are available!
My mission is to empower you to take control of your health, well-being, and athletic performance through personalized nutrition that fits seamlessly into your life. I’m passionate about working with busy adults who want to improve their health without sacrificing all their free time. If you're tired of wasting your time following restrive diets I'm here to help you find a better way. Let’s create a plan that works for you. Book a free discovery call to see if my services are the right fit for you. Virtual appointments are available!
(249) 444-8474 View (249) 444-8474
Photo of Brittany McMullan - Brittany McMullan | Diabetes Educator & Dietitian, Nutritionist/Dietitian, CDE, RD
Brittany McMullan | Diabetes Educator & Dietitian
Nutritionist/Dietitian, CDE, RD
5 Endorsed
Online Only
New clients welcome, book a chat today! Have you had a recent diagnosis of prediabetes/diabetes that has you feeling overwhelmed? Have you been told you have high blood pressure or cholesterol? Whether you're currently managing a condition, or simply trying to eat better with your family, I can help with your goals! As a Certified Diabetes Educator, I work with clients virtually across Ontario to find ways to make gradual, "DO-ABLE" changes to lower AIC and improve their health. I take a non-judgmental approach to nutrition, and use an "all-foods-fit" philosophy. I promote balance, not restriction, when it comes to healthy eating!
New clients welcome, book a chat today! Have you had a recent diagnosis of prediabetes/diabetes that has you feeling overwhelmed? Have you been told you have high blood pressure or cholesterol? Whether you're currently managing a condition, or simply trying to eat better with your family, I can help with your goals! As a Certified Diabetes Educator, I work with clients virtually across Ontario to find ways to make gradual, "DO-ABLE" changes to lower AIC and improve their health. I take a non-judgmental approach to nutrition, and use an "all-foods-fit" philosophy. I promote balance, not restriction, when it comes to healthy eating!
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Photo of Nicole Durand, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDE
Nicole Durand
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDE
Online Only
Hi, I’m Nicole. I’m a Registered Dietitian and Certified Diabetes Educator. For the past 10 years, I have supported patients with diabetes and various other chronic diseases and nutrition concerns in making diet changes and improving their health and quality of life. I have also worked with children and families and would love to help you lessen food related stressors in the home by disentangling the confusing and often contradictory nutrition information available, providing meal planning strategies and addressing “picky eating”.
Hi, I’m Nicole. I’m a Registered Dietitian and Certified Diabetes Educator. For the past 10 years, I have supported patients with diabetes and various other chronic diseases and nutrition concerns in making diet changes and improving their health and quality of life. I have also worked with children and families and would love to help you lessen food related stressors in the home by disentangling the confusing and often contradictory nutrition information available, providing meal planning strategies and addressing “picky eating”.
(647) 691-6703 View (647) 691-6703
Photo of Theresa Silverthorn, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Theresa Silverthorn
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
Accepting NEW patients. We have immediate availability for daytime & evening appointments. Whether you’re a new mom navigating the world in an unfamiliar body, a parent looking to support their child with healthy habits, an adolescent looking to expand or improve their diet, or an adult ready to break free of the constant yo-yo dieting-I can help. It’s never too early or too late to focus on your relationship with food to create sustainable habits that support your entire well-being – physical, mental and emotional health. I have extensive experience treating binge-eating disorder, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa & ARFID.
Accepting NEW patients. We have immediate availability for daytime & evening appointments. Whether you’re a new mom navigating the world in an unfamiliar body, a parent looking to support their child with healthy habits, an adolescent looking to expand or improve their diet, or an adult ready to break free of the constant yo-yo dieting-I can help. It’s never too early or too late to focus on your relationship with food to create sustainable habits that support your entire well-being – physical, mental and emotional health. I have extensive experience treating binge-eating disorder, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa & ARFID.
(289) 271-3480 View (289) 271-3480
Photo of Anna Prestia, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Anna Prestia
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Accepting NEW patients-next day appts available for phone & video sessions. I have 20+ years experience as a Registered Dietitian with a wide range of experiences. I specialize in infant, pediatric & adult nutrition for people 0-99. I am well-versed in all chronic and acute diseases including cancer, diabetes, eating disorders, infant feeding/introducing solids/picky eating, fad diets (keto), weight management, IBS, and more. I have worked in acute care hospital settings, outpatient clinics & private practice. I offer practical guidance that builds confidence, supports symptoms, and strengthens your relationship with food.
Accepting NEW patients-next day appts available for phone & video sessions. I have 20+ years experience as a Registered Dietitian with a wide range of experiences. I specialize in infant, pediatric & adult nutrition for people 0-99. I am well-versed in all chronic and acute diseases including cancer, diabetes, eating disorders, infant feeding/introducing solids/picky eating, fad diets (keto), weight management, IBS, and more. I have worked in acute care hospital settings, outpatient clinics & private practice. I offer practical guidance that builds confidence, supports symptoms, and strengthens your relationship with food.
(289) 302-8389 View (289) 302-8389
Photo of Jana Spindler, Nutritionist/Dietitian, BSc, RD, CCC
Jana Spindler
Nutritionist/Dietitian, BSc, RD, CCC
Serves Area
Specialty: Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Emotional Eating, Mental Health, Sports Nutrition, ADHD, & Women’s Health. Fitness enthusiast and lover of all things food, Jana is passionate about helping her clients improve their relationship with food and their body. She is a strong, motivational leader. Jana also offers the balance of a warm, supportive coaching style to nudge her clients from their comfort zone while feeling safe and supported. She is a Canadian Certified Counselor (CCC) and has a masters in Counseling Pyschology fulfilling her goal of being both a Dietitian and Therapist.
Specialty: Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Emotional Eating, Mental Health, Sports Nutrition, ADHD, & Women’s Health. Fitness enthusiast and lover of all things food, Jana is passionate about helping her clients improve their relationship with food and their body. She is a strong, motivational leader. Jana also offers the balance of a warm, supportive coaching style to nudge her clients from their comfort zone while feeling safe and supported. She is a Canadian Certified Counselor (CCC) and has a masters in Counseling Pyschology fulfilling her goal of being both a Dietitian and Therapist.
(800) 268-9487 View (800) 268-9487
Photo of Tracy Frem, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDE
Tracy Frem
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDE
Burlington, ON L7L
Looking for nutrition support that actually fits your life? You’re in the right place. I’m Tracy, a registered dietitian and certified diabetes educator with over 15 years of experience helping people feel confident in their nutrition and health. As a mom of two who’s navigated her own ups and downs with health, I understand how overwhelming it can feel—and I bring that empathy to every session. I’ve completed advanced training across a range of areas, including digital learning, project management, pediatric and adult nutrition, obesity, diabetes, and motivational communication.
Looking for nutrition support that actually fits your life? You’re in the right place. I’m Tracy, a registered dietitian and certified diabetes educator with over 15 years of experience helping people feel confident in their nutrition and health. As a mom of two who’s navigated her own ups and downs with health, I understand how overwhelming it can feel—and I bring that empathy to every session. I’ve completed advanced training across a range of areas, including digital learning, project management, pediatric and adult nutrition, obesity, diabetes, and motivational communication.
(365) 796-4775 View (365) 796-4775
Photo of Misha Roy - CBT Wellness and Virtual Services, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
CBT Wellness and Virtual Services
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2L
Accepting NEW clients. Imagine your ideal health journey-You want more energy, less stress around food, and confidence that what you eat is truly supporting your health. Maybe you’re managing diabetes, digestive issues, or food intolerances. Perhaps you’re navigating weight changes, pregnancy, postpartum recovery, or building strength for sports and fitness. You may even be balancing complex needs like food allergies, hypertension, or diabetes. This is where we can help. Our dietitians have 15+ years of experience helping individuals & families find realistic, enjoyable & sustainable ways to eat well without strict diets.
Accepting NEW clients. Imagine your ideal health journey-You want more energy, less stress around food, and confidence that what you eat is truly supporting your health. Maybe you’re managing diabetes, digestive issues, or food intolerances. Perhaps you’re navigating weight changes, pregnancy, postpartum recovery, or building strength for sports and fitness. You may even be balancing complex needs like food allergies, hypertension, or diabetes. This is where we can help. Our dietitians have 15+ years of experience helping individuals & families find realistic, enjoyable & sustainable ways to eat well without strict diets.
(289) 275-4567 View (289) 275-4567
Photo of Julie Mancuso - JM Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian
JM Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian
Serves Area
JM Nutrition is a nutritional counselling service by a diverse team of nutritionists and dietitians, each with their own areas of expertise and specialization. As a result, we are well-equipped to meet your exact needs, goals and preferences. Our team of nutritionists and registered dietitians regularly lend their expertise to national and international media outlets on numerous nutrition, health, wellness and fitness topics. Our highly personalized service receives high praise from our clients who come to us from all walks of life for matters pertaining to weight loss, digestive health, disease management, sports nutrition & more.
JM Nutrition is a nutritional counselling service by a diverse team of nutritionists and dietitians, each with their own areas of expertise and specialization. As a result, we are well-equipped to meet your exact needs, goals and preferences. Our team of nutritionists and registered dietitians regularly lend their expertise to national and international media outlets on numerous nutrition, health, wellness and fitness topics. Our highly personalized service receives high praise from our clients who come to us from all walks of life for matters pertaining to weight loss, digestive health, disease management, sports nutrition & more.
(437) 500-6233 View (437) 500-6233
Photo of Theresa Silverthorn - CBT Wellness & Virtual Services, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
CBT Wellness & Virtual Services
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Accepting NEW patients. We have immediate availability for daytime & evening appointments. Whether you’re a new mom navigating the world in an unfamiliar body, a parent looking to support their child with healthy habits, an adolescent looking to expand or improve their diet, or an adult ready to break free of the constant yo-yo dieting-I can help. It’s never too early or too late to focus on your relationship with food to create sustainable habits that support your entire well-being – physical, mental and emotional health. I have extensive experience treating binge-eating disorder, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa & ARFID.
Accepting NEW patients. We have immediate availability for daytime & evening appointments. Whether you’re a new mom navigating the world in an unfamiliar body, a parent looking to support their child with healthy habits, an adolescent looking to expand or improve their diet, or an adult ready to break free of the constant yo-yo dieting-I can help. It’s never too early or too late to focus on your relationship with food to create sustainable habits that support your entire well-being – physical, mental and emotional health. I have extensive experience treating binge-eating disorder, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa & ARFID.
(289) 723-1959 View (289) 723-1959
Photo of Theresa Silverthorn, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Theresa Silverthorn
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Accepting NEW patients. We have immediate availability for daytime & evening appointments. Whether you’re a new mom navigating the world in an unfamiliar body, a parent looking to support their child with healthy habits, an adolescent looking to expand or improve their diet, or an adult ready to break free of the constant yo-yo dieting-I can help. It’s never too early or too late to focus on your relationship with food to create sustainable habits that support your entire well-being – physical, mental and emotional health. I have extensive experience treating binge-eating disorder, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa & ARFID.
Accepting NEW patients. We have immediate availability for daytime & evening appointments. Whether you’re a new mom navigating the world in an unfamiliar body, a parent looking to support their child with healthy habits, an adolescent looking to expand or improve their diet, or an adult ready to break free of the constant yo-yo dieting-I can help. It’s never too early or too late to focus on your relationship with food to create sustainable habits that support your entire well-being – physical, mental and emotional health. I have extensive experience treating binge-eating disorder, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa & ARFID.
(647) 360-9366 View (647) 360-9366
Photo of Anna Prestia, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Anna Prestia
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
New patients welcome! I am a RD with over 20 years of experience providing expert nutrition care across all stages of life. have expertise spanning infant and pediatric nutrition, oncology, prenatal/post-natal nutrition, disordered eating, cardiac health, diabetes, weight management, weight concerns, cancer, GI conditions, allergies, anti-inflammatory nutrition & tube feedings. I have worked extensively in acute care hospital settings, as well as in outpatient clinics and private practice. I offer practical guidance that builds confidence, supports symptoms, and strengthens a positive relationship with food.
New patients welcome! I am a RD with over 20 years of experience providing expert nutrition care across all stages of life. have expertise spanning infant and pediatric nutrition, oncology, prenatal/post-natal nutrition, disordered eating, cardiac health, diabetes, weight management, weight concerns, cancer, GI conditions, allergies, anti-inflammatory nutrition & tube feedings. I have worked extensively in acute care hospital settings, as well as in outpatient clinics and private practice. I offer practical guidance that builds confidence, supports symptoms, and strengthens a positive relationship with food.
(548) 708-0455 View (548) 708-0455
Photo of Tanya Brown - Tanya Brown, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Tanya Brown, RD
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Serves Area
I am a Registered Dietitian with a nutrition blog and virtual/phone private practice - Tanya Brown, RD (Nutrition Simplified) www.tanyabrownrd.ca. I believe that moderation is an important part of a healthy balanced diet as well as focusing on whole foods and limiting processed foods when possible. I promote eating a healthy, well balanced diet while completing regular activity you love will help you achieve a healthy and happy life. Prior to starting a blog and private practice I worked as a clinical dietitian in long term care then in an acute hospital setting for over 10 years where I gained valuable knowledge in various areas
I am a Registered Dietitian with a nutrition blog and virtual/phone private practice - Tanya Brown, RD (Nutrition Simplified) www.tanyabrownrd.ca. I believe that moderation is an important part of a healthy balanced diet as well as focusing on whole foods and limiting processed foods when possible. I promote eating a healthy, well balanced diet while completing regular activity you love will help you achieve a healthy and happy life. Prior to starting a blog and private practice I worked as a clinical dietitian in long term care then in an acute hospital setting for over 10 years where I gained valuable knowledge in various areas
(289) 206-7086 View (289) 206-7086
Photo of Heather Emily Soman - Heather Soman, RD | Behind the Plate, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Heather Soman, RD | Behind the Plate
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Online Only
Nutrition advice can be overwhelming—how do you know what’s truly evidence-based? If you’re ready to take charge of your health but need guidance, that’s where we come in. We’re two Registered Dietitians and Certified Intuitive Eating Counsellors who take a collaborative, judgment-free, non-diet approach. We help clients ditch extreme dieting, make peace with food, and build confidence in their choices. Working with us means having compassionate, supportive professionals on your healthcare team to give you honest, science-based guidance and the truth behind your plate.
Nutrition advice can be overwhelming—how do you know what’s truly evidence-based? If you’re ready to take charge of your health but need guidance, that’s where we come in. We’re two Registered Dietitians and Certified Intuitive Eating Counsellors who take a collaborative, judgment-free, non-diet approach. We help clients ditch extreme dieting, make peace with food, and build confidence in their choices. Working with us means having compassionate, supportive professionals on your healthcare team to give you honest, science-based guidance and the truth behind your plate.
(289) 207-6438 View (289) 207-6438
Photo of Vanessa Hurley - CBT Wellness & Virtual Services, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
CBT Wellness & Virtual Services
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
4 Endorsed
Online Only
We love working with individuals across the lifespan & have experience with chronic disease prevention (diabetes, heart health, cancer), women’s health (pregnancy, fertility, PCOS, menopause), infant/child/teen health (introduction to solids, feeding relationship, selective eating), special dietary restrictions, allergies/intolerances & digestive concerns.
NEW patients welcome! Do you need help managing your chronic health diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease or obesity? Is your goal to lower your high blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol or weight? Do you want to improve your overall relationship with food, recover from an eating disorder, boost your energy levels or feel more confident in your body? Are you overwhelmed or unsure how to introduce solids or allergens to your baby? You have come to the right place-we can help you reach your goals! We provide personalized nutrition care + meal plans tailored to your unique lifestyle & food preferences.
We love working with individuals across the lifespan & have experience with chronic disease prevention (diabetes, heart health, cancer), women’s health (pregnancy, fertility, PCOS, menopause), infant/child/teen health (introduction to solids, feeding relationship, selective eating), special dietary restrictions, allergies/intolerances & digestive concerns.
NEW patients welcome! Do you need help managing your chronic health diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease or obesity? Is your goal to lower your high blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol or weight? Do you want to improve your overall relationship with food, recover from an eating disorder, boost your energy levels or feel more confident in your body? Are you overwhelmed or unsure how to introduce solids or allergens to your baby? You have come to the right place-we can help you reach your goals! We provide personalized nutrition care + meal plans tailored to your unique lifestyle & food preferences.
(289) 312-3565 View (289) 312-3565
Photo of Tanya Cullen, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, IFNCP
Tanya Cullen
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, IFNCP
Online Only
You’re dealing with low energy, bloating, or digestive discomfort. You’re trying to eat healthy, but not seeing results. Recovery feels slower, weight is changing, and your body feels off. You might also be a parent of an active child or teen, busy getting to practices, games, or lessons, and wondering if they’re fueling properly for energy, growth, and performance. I support active adults and youth (8–18) with simple, realistic nutrition strategies to improve energy, digestion, and overall performance.
You’re dealing with low energy, bloating, or digestive discomfort. You’re trying to eat healthy, but not seeing results. Recovery feels slower, weight is changing, and your body feels off. You might also be a parent of an active child or teen, busy getting to practices, games, or lessons, and wondering if they’re fueling properly for energy, growth, and performance. I support active adults and youth (8–18) with simple, realistic nutrition strategies to improve energy, digestion, and overall performance.
(226) 840-3649 View (226) 840-3649
Photo of Anna Prestia, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Anna Prestia
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting new clients! I have 20 years of experience providing nutrition counselling to people of all ages. I have expertise spanning infant and pediatric nutrition, oncology, prenatal/post-natal nutrition, disordered eating, cardiac health, diabetes, weight management, weight concerns, cancer, GI conditions, allergies, anti-inflammatory nutrition & tube feedings. I have worked extensively in acute care hospital settings, as well as in outpatient clinics and private practice. I offer practical guidance that builds confidence supports symptoms, and strengthens a positive relationship with food.
Accepting new clients! I have 20 years of experience providing nutrition counselling to people of all ages. I have expertise spanning infant and pediatric nutrition, oncology, prenatal/post-natal nutrition, disordered eating, cardiac health, diabetes, weight management, weight concerns, cancer, GI conditions, allergies, anti-inflammatory nutrition & tube feedings. I have worked extensively in acute care hospital settings, as well as in outpatient clinics and private practice. I offer practical guidance that builds confidence supports symptoms, and strengthens a positive relationship with food.
(365) 650-6182 View (365) 650-6182
Photo of Vanessa Hurley, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Vanessa Hurley
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I love working with individuals across the lifespan & have experience with chronic disease prevention (diabetes, heart health, cancer), women’s health (pregnancy, fertility, PCOS, menopause), infant/child/teen health (introduction to solids, feeding relationship, selective eating), special dietary restrictions, allergies/intolerances & digestive concerns.
Accepting NEW patients for phone/video sessions for people of all ages 0+. I have 20+ years of experience providing evidence-based food & nutrition advice as well as compassionate care to infants, kids, teens, adults & seniors. I will work with you to create the best possible plan to meet your food & nutrition goals. Healthy eating is not just what you eat, but also why & how you eat. I can also work with you on ensuring you develop & maintain a heathy relationship with food, while integrating intuitive eating principles & mindful eating strategies. Let’s work together to make positive & lasting changes to your health.
I love working with individuals across the lifespan & have experience with chronic disease prevention (diabetes, heart health, cancer), women’s health (pregnancy, fertility, PCOS, menopause), infant/child/teen health (introduction to solids, feeding relationship, selective eating), special dietary restrictions, allergies/intolerances & digestive concerns.
Accepting NEW patients for phone/video sessions for people of all ages 0+. I have 20+ years of experience providing evidence-based food & nutrition advice as well as compassionate care to infants, kids, teens, adults & seniors. I will work with you to create the best possible plan to meet your food & nutrition goals. Healthy eating is not just what you eat, but also why & how you eat. I can also work with you on ensuring you develop & maintain a heathy relationship with food, while integrating intuitive eating principles & mindful eating strategies. Let’s work together to make positive & lasting changes to your health.
(343) 655-0646 View (343) 655-0646
Photo of Maiya Ahluwalia, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, MAN , BASc
Maiya Ahluwalia
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, MAN , BASc
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a registered dietitian I take an anti-diet approach to support my clients. Growing up as a "picky eater", I was always told how to eat and how much to eat. As I got older, I grew an interest for food and nutrition which led me to become a registered dietitian. Now I support individuals in creating sustainable dietary changes based on their preferences, dietary restrictions and medical history. I believe that embracing cultural foods, enjoying all foods and meeting your nutrition needs can all be done in sync. I specialize in pediatrics, women's health and family nutrition.
As a registered dietitian I take an anti-diet approach to support my clients. Growing up as a "picky eater", I was always told how to eat and how much to eat. As I got older, I grew an interest for food and nutrition which led me to become a registered dietitian. Now I support individuals in creating sustainable dietary changes based on their preferences, dietary restrictions and medical history. I believe that embracing cultural foods, enjoying all foods and meeting your nutrition needs can all be done in sync. I specialize in pediatrics, women's health and family nutrition.
(289) 805-3685 View (289) 805-3685
Heart Health Nutritionists and Dietitians
How does nutrition affect heart health?
Nutrition plays a significant role in heart health, affecting conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Consuming too much saturated and trans fats can raise "bad" cholesterol levels, potentially leading to clogged arteries and heart disease. In addition, high-sugar and refined carb foods, common in the American diet, are often high in calories but low in nutrients. Abundant consumption of such foods can lead to conditions such as weight gain and diabetes, which put extra strain on the heart. Excess sodium intake is yet another dietary component that can impact heart health. Consumption of too much sodium can raise blood pressure, making the heart work harder. Conversely, eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats helps support heart health through the maintenance of healthy cholesterol levels and the reduction of inflammation.

What diet is best for heart health?
In general, experts recommend a plant-based diet high in fiber, healthy fats, and lean protein as the best nutrition approach to a heart healthy diet. The "Mediterranean diet," characterized by the consumption of lots of healthy fats, vegetables, beans, and whole grains is one common diet with abundant evidence supporting its efficacy in reducing blood cholesterol levels and preventing cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet is another common diet shown to reduce blood pressure and positively impact heart health; the DASH diet emphasizes the consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low fat dairy products with a particular focus on reducing the consumption of saturated fats. Conversely, diets that include the consumption of large amounts of protein and fats—such as the keto diet and atkins diet—are generally not recommended for those with heart conditions or high cholesterol levels due to the high levels of saturated and trans fats such diets can include.

What foods increase one's risk of heart disease?
Foods high in saturated and trans fats, such as fatty meats, cream, butter, and pastries, can have a very negative impact on heart health. In addition, sweets, high-sugar drinks, and refined carbohydrates like white bread and pasta are usually good to avoid in order to positively impact heart health. Replacing saturated fats with unsaturated fat alternatives, such as consuming lean fish high in omega-3 fatty acids instead of red meat, is often a good strategy, as is replacing highly-processed and sugar-rich foods with alternative carbohydrates, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Why should someone with heart disease see a dietitian?
Dietitians are specifically trained to use diet modifications to manage health, so individuals with heart disease may greatly benefit from seeing a dietitian to improve their cardiac health. Dietitians can help clients identify foods that support heart health, such as whole grains, as well as help clients eliminate foods that can place a strain on the heart when consumed in large quantities over time, such as saturated and trans fats. Dietitians can also help hold clients accountable for their nutrition and provide resources for other lifestyle modifications that support heart health, such as exercise, smoking cessation, and alcohol consumption reduction. Additionally, dietitians can assist in managing other chronic diseases often associated with heart disease, such as kidney conditions or diabetes.