Heart Health Nutritionists and Dietitians in 43062

Photo of Nijya Noble - NK Fitness and Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
NK Fitness and Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
Online Only
I’m so excited to share that our family is growing! We’re expecting baby number 2, and I’m incredibly grateful for this new chapter. With that being said, I will officially begin maternity leave on May 1, 2026. During this time: New client onboarding will pause. Response times may be delayed. Limited services may be available (updates to come). I’m committed to keeping you informed about my return date and any service updates. In the meantime, you can stay connected and continue getting culturally inclusive nutrition tips, prediabetes support, and lifestyle inspiration by following me on social media NijyaTheDietitian.
I’m so excited to share that our family is growing! We’re expecting baby number 2, and I’m incredibly grateful for this new chapter. With that being said, I will officially begin maternity leave on May 1, 2026. During this time: New client onboarding will pause. Response times may be delayed. Limited services may be available (updates to come). I’m committed to keeping you informed about my return date and any service updates. In the meantime, you can stay connected and continue getting culturally inclusive nutrition tips, prediabetes support, and lifestyle inspiration by following me on social media NijyaTheDietitian.
(614) 618-3260 View (614) 618-3260

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Brittany Norem, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Brittany Norem
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Specialities include: Weight management, Pre-Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes, Gestational Diabetes, PCOS, Heart Healthy Eating, General Nutrition, High Cholesterol, Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, Celiac Disease, IBS, Vegetarian and Vegan diets.
Brittany is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with Health Loft who works collaboratively with clients to create life-long and sustainable changes. Brittany understands that change takes time and works with client’s to find this balance in nutrition and daily movement. Through open discussion during sessions, client's will learn how to establish daily patterns that ultimately create healthy habits for long-term success. Brittany believes there is no one perfect diet and works with you to find the dietary interventions best suited for your health journey.
Specialities include: Weight management, Pre-Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes, Gestational Diabetes, PCOS, Heart Healthy Eating, General Nutrition, High Cholesterol, Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, Celiac Disease, IBS, Vegetarian and Vegan diets.
Brittany is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with Health Loft who works collaboratively with clients to create life-long and sustainable changes. Brittany understands that change takes time and works with client’s to find this balance in nutrition and daily movement. Through open discussion during sessions, client's will learn how to establish daily patterns that ultimately create healthy habits for long-term success. Brittany believes there is no one perfect diet and works with you to find the dietary interventions best suited for your health journey.
(904) 467-7389 View (904) 467-7389
Photo of Haleigh Augspols, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Haleigh Augspols
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Specialties include working with clients that have or had a history of Eating Disorders, Picky Eating, Pre-Diabetes, Heart Conditions, High Cholesterol, GERD, Crohn’s Disease, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Ulcerative Colitis, Gout, High Blood Pressure, Thyroid Disorders, PCOS, Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, Underweight Nutrition, Weight Management, Food Allergy
Passionate about nourishing bodies with evidence-based nutrition, Haleigh is a registered dietitian committed to guiding you through the maze of healthy eating. Haleigh loves helping her clients make small changes to their lifestyle that makes a huge difference to their health. Haleigh is dedicated to assisting clients with a mind-body approach to a healthier lifestyle through education on intuitive eating, stress reduction and a whole foods approach. She is a “non-diet” dietitian and strongly supports making changes that work for each person as an individual.
Specialties include working with clients that have or had a history of Eating Disorders, Picky Eating, Pre-Diabetes, Heart Conditions, High Cholesterol, GERD, Crohn’s Disease, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Ulcerative Colitis, Gout, High Blood Pressure, Thyroid Disorders, PCOS, Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, Underweight Nutrition, Weight Management, Food Allergy
Passionate about nourishing bodies with evidence-based nutrition, Haleigh is a registered dietitian committed to guiding you through the maze of healthy eating. Haleigh loves helping her clients make small changes to their lifestyle that makes a huge difference to their health. Haleigh is dedicated to assisting clients with a mind-body approach to a healthier lifestyle through education on intuitive eating, stress reduction and a whole foods approach. She is a “non-diet” dietitian and strongly supports making changes that work for each person as an individual.
(312) 779-1450 View (312) 779-1450
Photo of Melissa Horstman, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Melissa Horstman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Specialties include Type 1&2 Diabetes, weight management, high blood pressure and heart health, PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), GI disorders, and overall health and wellness
Melissa is a dedicated Registered Dietitian who strives to build rapport with her clients and fully understand their nutritional challenges and needs while fostering a positive relationship with food and self-kindness. She enjoys helping others achieve positive changes in their mental and physical health through nutrition counseling and education. Melissa is particularly passionate about working with individuals struggling with eating disorders, disordered eating, and the connection between nutrition and mental health.
Specialties include Type 1&2 Diabetes, weight management, high blood pressure and heart health, PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), GI disorders, and overall health and wellness
Melissa is a dedicated Registered Dietitian who strives to build rapport with her clients and fully understand their nutritional challenges and needs while fostering a positive relationship with food and self-kindness. She enjoys helping others achieve positive changes in their mental and physical health through nutrition counseling and education. Melissa is particularly passionate about working with individuals struggling with eating disorders, disordered eating, and the connection between nutrition and mental health.
(469) 436-4959 View (469) 436-4959
Photo of Leslie Clem Edmunds - Clem&Thyme Functional Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, MPH, CDCES, IFCNP, CLT
Clem&Thyme Functional Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, MPH, CDCES, IFCNP, CLT
Worthington, OH 43085
At Clem&Thyme Nutrition, we are more than a functional nutrition practice—we are a team committed to empowering individuals to uncover and address the root causes of their health challenges. Our mission is to provide tailored, evidence-based nutrition therapy that goes beyond treating symptoms to support whole-body wellness. By combining functional lab testing with customized strategies, our approach creates meaningful, lasting change.
At Clem&Thyme Nutrition, we are more than a functional nutrition practice—we are a team committed to empowering individuals to uncover and address the root causes of their health challenges. Our mission is to provide tailored, evidence-based nutrition therapy that goes beyond treating symptoms to support whole-body wellness. By combining functional lab testing with customized strategies, our approach creates meaningful, lasting change.
(740) 792-5150 View (740) 792-5150
Photo of Rachel Green - Vitality Nutrition Counseling, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
Vitality Nutrition Counseling
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
3 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43215
Hi, I’m Rachel! I’m a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist passionate about dismantling diet-culture and connecting folks with accessible and inclusive nutrition care. I love to help clients find peace with food and build a respectful and trusting relationship with their bodies. In our sessions, clients will focus on building sustainable changes and can expect a collaborative approach to achieving their goals!
Hi, I’m Rachel! I’m a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist passionate about dismantling diet-culture and connecting folks with accessible and inclusive nutrition care. I love to help clients find peace with food and build a respectful and trusting relationship with their bodies. In our sessions, clients will focus on building sustainable changes and can expect a collaborative approach to achieving their goals!
(380) 268-0371 View (380) 268-0371
Photo of Olivia Jackson, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Olivia Jackson
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
4 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43209
Olivia is a registered dietitian dedicated to helping individuals of all ages take a non-diet approach to nutrition while honoring both their bodies and mental health. She specializes in eating disorders, disordered eating, and intuitive and mindful eating, providing a safe space for clients to explore and challenge difficult food beliefs. Olivia believes in meeting clients where they are in their relationship with food and body to support meaningful, lasting change. She enjoys helping clients discover what healthy eating looks like in their own lives and creating a realistic sense of balance.
Olivia is a registered dietitian dedicated to helping individuals of all ages take a non-diet approach to nutrition while honoring both their bodies and mental health. She specializes in eating disorders, disordered eating, and intuitive and mindful eating, providing a safe space for clients to explore and challenge difficult food beliefs. Olivia believes in meeting clients where they are in their relationship with food and body to support meaningful, lasting change. She enjoys helping clients discover what healthy eating looks like in their own lives and creating a realistic sense of balance.
(708) 332-8474 View (708) 332-8474
Photo of Diane Christine Casey, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD, CLT
Diane Christine Casey
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD, CLT
Columbus, OH 43221
You found the complete package! I am a licensed dietitian, certified health coach/personal trainer who also holds a certificate in Plant-Based Nutrition from Cornell University. I focus on helping clients prevent or reverse disease through lifestyle practices: eating, exercise, stress management & sleep. I love to empower clients to implement new habits that enable health goals to be reached. Since inflammation is the root of all disease, there is a major focus on reversing inflammation through how we eat and live. I provide the most personalized anti-inflammatory diet available by using the MRT blood test & micronutrient analyses.
You found the complete package! I am a licensed dietitian, certified health coach/personal trainer who also holds a certificate in Plant-Based Nutrition from Cornell University. I focus on helping clients prevent or reverse disease through lifestyle practices: eating, exercise, stress management & sleep. I love to empower clients to implement new habits that enable health goals to be reached. Since inflammation is the root of all disease, there is a major focus on reversing inflammation through how we eat and live. I provide the most personalized anti-inflammatory diet available by using the MRT blood test & micronutrient analyses.
(614) 503-1797 View (614) 503-1797
Photo of Demi Evrigenis, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Demi Evrigenis
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Specialities include: Type 1 Diabetes, Pre-Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes, Digestive Issues, PCOS, General Lifestyle and Nutrition, Mindful Eating, High Cholesterol, Weight Management, Heart Health, and High Blood Pressure.
Demi is a registered dietitian who is dedicated to enhancing overall health and wellness. Specializing in aiding those with diabetes, gut health issues, PCOS, as well as renal and thyroid issues using a holistic approach. Beyond evaluating dietary practices, Demi considers lifestyle elements such as sleep, stress, and attitudes towards food. Combining nutritional expertise with empathy, she guides individuals towards improved health journeys. Recognizing the uniqueness of each path, Demi tailors personalized nutrition plans, targeting underlying health issues.
Specialities include: Type 1 Diabetes, Pre-Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes, Digestive Issues, PCOS, General Lifestyle and Nutrition, Mindful Eating, High Cholesterol, Weight Management, Heart Health, and High Blood Pressure.
Demi is a registered dietitian who is dedicated to enhancing overall health and wellness. Specializing in aiding those with diabetes, gut health issues, PCOS, as well as renal and thyroid issues using a holistic approach. Beyond evaluating dietary practices, Demi considers lifestyle elements such as sleep, stress, and attitudes towards food. Combining nutritional expertise with empathy, she guides individuals towards improved health journeys. Recognizing the uniqueness of each path, Demi tailors personalized nutrition plans, targeting underlying health issues.
(502) 218-4378 View (502) 218-4378
Photo of Audrey Clement, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Audrey Clement
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43214
Are you tired of feeling confused by nutrition? Are you tired of not being able to reach your wellness and performance goals because of misinformation that leaves you feeling overwhelmed? As a Dietitian, I recognized a common trend across my clients—the limiting belief that one specific thing, whether it be a food, tool, or fad diet, would make or break their health. Composition Nutrition LLC is grounded in the knowledge that our health is a composition of choices we make over the span of days, weeks, months, and years—including what we eat. My goal is to make nutrition simple again by shifting focus to what truly matters.
Are you tired of feeling confused by nutrition? Are you tired of not being able to reach your wellness and performance goals because of misinformation that leaves you feeling overwhelmed? As a Dietitian, I recognized a common trend across my clients—the limiting belief that one specific thing, whether it be a food, tool, or fad diet, would make or break their health. Composition Nutrition LLC is grounded in the knowledge that our health is a composition of choices we make over the span of days, weeks, months, and years—including what we eat. My goal is to make nutrition simple again by shifting focus to what truly matters.
(614) 908-2885 View (614) 908-2885
Photo of Danielle Hendrix, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CEDS
Danielle Hendrix
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CEDS
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Specialties include Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Emotional Wellbeing, Wellness Counseling, Heart Healthy Nutrition, General Nutrition, IBS, Crohn's, Colitis, Vegan, Vegetarian diets.
Danielle is a Registered Dietitian who practices out of Health Loft. Danielle understands that making fulfilling, long-lasting, and healthful decisions requires patience and a solid client-provider relationship. Change can be challenging, and you need a supportive provider to help navigate the way as you create your own path. Danielle strongly believes that being healthy means not only taking care of our physical health, but also our mental health. Danielle understands that nutrition is not “one-size-fits-all”, and she will work to help you create a personalized plan of care to help you meet your goals.
Specialties include Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Emotional Wellbeing, Wellness Counseling, Heart Healthy Nutrition, General Nutrition, IBS, Crohn's, Colitis, Vegan, Vegetarian diets.
Danielle is a Registered Dietitian who practices out of Health Loft. Danielle understands that making fulfilling, long-lasting, and healthful decisions requires patience and a solid client-provider relationship. Change can be challenging, and you need a supportive provider to help navigate the way as you create your own path. Danielle strongly believes that being healthy means not only taking care of our physical health, but also our mental health. Danielle understands that nutrition is not “one-size-fits-all”, and she will work to help you create a personalized plan of care to help you meet your goals.
(346) 666-7394 View (346) 666-7394
Photo of Anthony Beard, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CIEC
Anthony Beard
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CIEC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
In a 1995 Nutrition in Medical Science Class, I discovered that statistically, African Americans suffered disproportionately from many chronic diseases. I made it my goal in this life to discover a solution to alter the trajectory of the problem. I now help African-Americans develop a proper relationship with the food they eat by incorporating culture into the recipe of active living, glorious nutrition and wellness!
In a 1995 Nutrition in Medical Science Class, I discovered that statistically, African Americans suffered disproportionately from many chronic diseases. I made it my goal in this life to discover a solution to alter the trajectory of the problem. I now help African-Americans develop a proper relationship with the food they eat by incorporating culture into the recipe of active living, glorious nutrition and wellness!
(216) 666-5361 View (216) 666-5361
Photo of Adam Walz, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD, ISAK-1
Adam Walz
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD, ISAK-1
3 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43224
Specialties include sports nutrition; prediabetes and type 2 diabetes (non-insulin dependent); IBS and digestive health (Low FODMAP); food allergies/intolerances; heart health; mindful/intuitive and plant-based eating; weight management (bariatrics, GLP-1s); fatty liver; and women’s health.
Welcome! I’m Adam Walz, a Registered and Licensed Dietitian dedicated to helping people achieve lasting wellness and improved health. I’ve worked with professional and Division I athletes, pregnant and postpartum women, and clients of all ages—from children and adolescents to adults. I hold a Certificate of Training in Adult and Pediatric Obesity (Commission on Dietetic Registration) and I’m certified in the Low Fodmap Diet for IBS management. I provide personalized, evidence-based support tailored to your needs.
Specialties include sports nutrition; prediabetes and type 2 diabetes (non-insulin dependent); IBS and digestive health (Low FODMAP); food allergies/intolerances; heart health; mindful/intuitive and plant-based eating; weight management (bariatrics, GLP-1s); fatty liver; and women’s health.
Welcome! I’m Adam Walz, a Registered and Licensed Dietitian dedicated to helping people achieve lasting wellness and improved health. I’ve worked with professional and Division I athletes, pregnant and postpartum women, and clients of all ages—from children and adolescents to adults. I hold a Certificate of Training in Adult and Pediatric Obesity (Commission on Dietetic Registration) and I’m certified in the Low Fodmap Diet for IBS management. I provide personalized, evidence-based support tailored to your needs.
(551) 365-7752 View (551) 365-7752
Photo of Mia O'Brien-Combs, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LDN
Mia O'Brien-Combs
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LDN
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi! I'm Mia (she/her). I’m a Registered Dietitian dedicated to providing culturally centered, accessible, and compassionate nutrition care. I am committed to providing HAES-aligned evidence based care that also honors and celebrates your lived experience. I utilize intuitive eating principles and motivational interviewing with an “all foods fit” and gentle nutrition approach.I will work with you from a place of curiosity and together we will develop tools, skills, and knowledge to better understand and nourish your body while working towards your health goals.
Hi! I'm Mia (she/her). I’m a Registered Dietitian dedicated to providing culturally centered, accessible, and compassionate nutrition care. I am committed to providing HAES-aligned evidence based care that also honors and celebrates your lived experience. I utilize intuitive eating principles and motivational interviewing with an “all foods fit” and gentle nutrition approach.I will work with you from a place of curiosity and together we will develop tools, skills, and knowledge to better understand and nourish your body while working towards your health goals.
(904) 601-1243 View (904) 601-1243
Photo of Emma Wood, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Emma Wood
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Emma specializes in working with clients interested in PCOS, Hormonal Imbalances, Pre/Post Natal, Infertility, Bariatric Surgery, Weight Management, Anti-Inflammatory, Thyroid Conditions, and other areas. Emma is passionate about helping others achieve their individual nutrition and health goals. She practices “judgment free” care and understands the numerous barriers to health, while serving as a partner to her patients on their wellness journey. She utilizes evidenced based practices to produce sustainable results and help others create a positive relationship with nutrition
Emma specializes in working with clients interested in PCOS, Hormonal Imbalances, Pre/Post Natal, Infertility, Bariatric Surgery, Weight Management, Anti-Inflammatory, Thyroid Conditions, and other areas. Emma is passionate about helping others achieve their individual nutrition and health goals. She practices “judgment free” care and understands the numerous barriers to health, while serving as a partner to her patients on their wellness journey. She utilizes evidenced based practices to produce sustainable results and help others create a positive relationship with nutrition
(904) 454-8105 View (904) 454-8105
Photo of Colleen Elizabeth Bailey, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
Colleen Elizabeth Bailey
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
3 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43219
Do you struggle with nutrition in a way that supports your physical AND mental health? Are you confused about all the misinformation you find so easily on the internet & social media? Have you ever felt out of control around food and wish you could just “normalize” your eating? Don’t know where to turn? I’m here to help!
Do you struggle with nutrition in a way that supports your physical AND mental health? Are you confused about all the misinformation you find so easily on the internet & social media? Have you ever felt out of control around food and wish you could just “normalize” your eating? Don’t know where to turn? I’m here to help!
(614) 300-0116 View (614) 300-0116
Photo of Laurie Ann Coleman - Laurie Coleman Nutrition Consulting, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD
Laurie Coleman Nutrition Consulting
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD
Columbus, OH 43215
I am a registered and licensed dietitian with 24 years of experience working with clients interested in improving their overall wellbeing. My approach encompasses the client’s entire lifestyle, including diet, exercise and stress management strategies. I believe in providing clients with individualized nutrition plans specific to their personal goals. Helping clients understand the importance of using food for its medicinal purposes and proper nutrition’s ability to contribute to optimal health is my ultimate goal.
I am a registered and licensed dietitian with 24 years of experience working with clients interested in improving their overall wellbeing. My approach encompasses the client’s entire lifestyle, including diet, exercise and stress management strategies. I believe in providing clients with individualized nutrition plans specific to their personal goals. Helping clients understand the importance of using food for its medicinal purposes and proper nutrition’s ability to contribute to optimal health is my ultimate goal.
(614) 902-4601 View (614) 902-4601
Photo of Samantha Smith-Bowman, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Samantha Smith-Bowman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello! My name is Samantha Smith-Bowman, and I’m an experienced dietitian focused on the mental health aspects of nutrition. If you know nutrition matters but aren’t sure how to change your habits—or you’ve tried before and nothing seems to stick—you’re not alone. Many plans don’t match how your brain works. Together, we’ll build an individualized approach with small, sustainable steps to support your goals, whether that’s diabetes management, improved labs, disordered eating behaviors, or other medical needs.
Hello! My name is Samantha Smith-Bowman, and I’m an experienced dietitian focused on the mental health aspects of nutrition. If you know nutrition matters but aren’t sure how to change your habits—or you’ve tried before and nothing seems to stick—you’re not alone. Many plans don’t match how your brain works. Together, we’ll build an individualized approach with small, sustainable steps to support your goals, whether that’s diabetes management, improved labs, disordered eating behaviors, or other medical needs.
(503) 476-9782 View (503) 476-9782
Photo of Braeden Yacobucci, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD, CPT, CNSC
Braeden Yacobucci
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD, CPT, CNSC
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43215
This client is talkative, friendly, and eager to learn. They have diagnosed IBS and sought support to work through a low FODMAP plan with a dietitian. Symptoms are limiting daily activities and enjoyment of life, so relief would help them feel like themselves again. I enjoy gut health work because it’s a complex puzzle we solve together to create a new, lower-symptom baseline. They’re typically 20–40 years old and open to exploring a variety of tools.
This client is talkative, friendly, and eager to learn. They have diagnosed IBS and sought support to work through a low FODMAP plan with a dietitian. Symptoms are limiting daily activities and enjoyment of life, so relief would help them feel like themselves again. I enjoy gut health work because it’s a complex puzzle we solve together to create a new, lower-symptom baseline. They’re typically 20–40 years old and open to exploring a variety of tools.
(513) 548-3968 View (513) 548-3968
Photo of Adrienne DePaul, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, RDN, LDN
Adrienne DePaul
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, RDN, LDN
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who practices out of Health Loft helping clients whom have PCOS, interests in Pre/PostPartum nutrition, Gestational Diabetes, Diabetes, or Weight Management. I help clients to craft personalized, attainable, and sustainable dietary and lifestyle changes that support their health. By collaboratively designing small, impactful steps that preserve quality of life and promote personal choice, I help my clients achieve their goals from better blood sugar control to increased energy.
I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who practices out of Health Loft helping clients whom have PCOS, interests in Pre/PostPartum nutrition, Gestational Diabetes, Diabetes, or Weight Management. I help clients to craft personalized, attainable, and sustainable dietary and lifestyle changes that support their health. By collaboratively designing small, impactful steps that preserve quality of life and promote personal choice, I help my clients achieve their goals from better blood sugar control to increased energy.
(312) 517-2296 View (312) 517-2296
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.