Weight Loss/Weight Management Nutritionists and Dietitians in 60611

Photo of Judy E. Manisco, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Judy E. Manisco
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Chicago, IL 60611
Awarded BEST Effective Weight Loss and Nutrition Plans in Chicago.
Judy has been a host on Chicago WGN Radio & WGN Podcast with publication in the Chicago Tribune, Readers Digest, Chicago Parent Magazine, Medill News- Northwestern, Loyola University, Columbia College & The Art Institute Of Chicago. Judy is has also been a Nutrition Advisor for organizations as: Whole Foods Market, NBC & Elmhurst College. in the
Awarded BEST Effective Weight Loss and Nutrition Plans in Chicago.
Judy has been a host on Chicago WGN Radio & WGN Podcast with publication in the Chicago Tribune, Readers Digest, Chicago Parent Magazine, Medill News- Northwestern, Loyola University, Columbia College & The Art Institute Of Chicago. Judy is has also been a Nutrition Advisor for organizations as: Whole Foods Market, NBC & Elmhurst College. in the
(708) 512-7172 View (708) 512-7172
Photo of Jennifer Sherman, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Jennifer Sherman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Online Only
My specialties include weight loss and weight management, whole food plant based eating, heart health, diabetes, IBS, & autoimmunity.
HI! I'm an RD who will customize a nutrition plan tailored to meet your specific needs and goals. Be that to reduce weight, improve autoimmune & IBS symptoms, lower blood pressure, cholesterol, or A1C. Using a science-based approach, we'll work together to develop a personalized strategy to help you meet your goals by making small, achievable dietary and lifestyle changes as I guide you, gently, through the process. I earned my master's degree in human nutrition from UIC in 2016 and have worked in Chicago as a licensed and registered dietitian ever since. I am currently seeing all clients via tele-health. I can help you improve.
My specialties include weight loss and weight management, whole food plant based eating, heart health, diabetes, IBS, & autoimmunity.
HI! I'm an RD who will customize a nutrition plan tailored to meet your specific needs and goals. Be that to reduce weight, improve autoimmune & IBS symptoms, lower blood pressure, cholesterol, or A1C. Using a science-based approach, we'll work together to develop a personalized strategy to help you meet your goals by making small, achievable dietary and lifestyle changes as I guide you, gently, through the process. I earned my master's degree in human nutrition from UIC in 2016 and have worked in Chicago as a licensed and registered dietitian ever since. I am currently seeing all clients via tele-health. I can help you improve.
(872) 259-4490 View (872) 259-4490
Photo of Addison Hagge, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Addison Hagge
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Addison is a registered dietitian who works to understand your needs by taking a comprehensive and personalized approach to nutrition therapy. She believes in weight-inclusive care, Health at Every Size, and strives to help her clients find balance with nutrition, movement, and their bodies. You can expect Addison to listen to you, support you, and provide you with the tools to find healing and balance. She will work with you to find ways to achieve your goals and understand the challenges you face. She is devoted to providing you with the most effective and up-to-date nutrition care and information possible.
Addison is a registered dietitian who works to understand your needs by taking a comprehensive and personalized approach to nutrition therapy. She believes in weight-inclusive care, Health at Every Size, and strives to help her clients find balance with nutrition, movement, and their bodies. You can expect Addison to listen to you, support you, and provide you with the tools to find healing and balance. She will work with you to find ways to achieve your goals and understand the challenges you face. She is devoted to providing you with the most effective and up-to-date nutrition care and information possible.
(410) 886-7744 View (410) 886-7744
Photo of Katerina Varnum, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Katerina Varnum
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Online Only
I help stabilize blood sugar, reduce insulin resistance, improve liver markers, restore cycles in PCOS, support sustainable weight loss, and increase energy.
You’re doing your best, yet your blood sugar is unpredictable, your weight won’t move, your energy crashes, or your cycles are irregular. You want answers, not another diet. My clients come to me when they’re struggling with insulin resistance, prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, PCOS, fatty liver, or midlife metabolism and are ready for a plan that actually works. I use functional nutrition, hormone mapping, and microbiome science to find what’s driving your symptoms so you can feel better, lose weight, and finally see real, lasting results.
I help stabilize blood sugar, reduce insulin resistance, improve liver markers, restore cycles in PCOS, support sustainable weight loss, and increase energy.
You’re doing your best, yet your blood sugar is unpredictable, your weight won’t move, your energy crashes, or your cycles are irregular. You want answers, not another diet. My clients come to me when they’re struggling with insulin resistance, prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, PCOS, fatty liver, or midlife metabolism and are ready for a plan that actually works. I use functional nutrition, hormone mapping, and microbiome science to find what’s driving your symptoms so you can feel better, lose weight, and finally see real, lasting results.
(818) 403-3159 View (818) 403-3159
Photo of Sharon Ona - Sharon Ona , Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN
Sharon Ona
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN
Online Only
I work with adults looking for sustainable weight management, metabolic health support, and ADHD-friendly nutrition care.
Are you ready to stop feeling tired, frustrated, and overwhelmed with brain fog, low energy, and difficulty following through with ADHD, or blood sugar ups and downs, weight struggles, and concerning labs tied to cardiometabolic health? You don’t have to figure this out alone. As a Board-Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) I use a functional medicine approach to help you develop sustainable diet and lifestyle changes so you can feel your best. Through personalized 1:1 counseling, you’ll receive science-based strategies, practical tools, and accountability to help you improve energy, regulate blood sugar, and feel more in control.
I work with adults looking for sustainable weight management, metabolic health support, and ADHD-friendly nutrition care.
Are you ready to stop feeling tired, frustrated, and overwhelmed with brain fog, low energy, and difficulty following through with ADHD, or blood sugar ups and downs, weight struggles, and concerning labs tied to cardiometabolic health? You don’t have to figure this out alone. As a Board-Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) I use a functional medicine approach to help you develop sustainable diet and lifestyle changes so you can feel your best. Through personalized 1:1 counseling, you’ll receive science-based strategies, practical tools, and accountability to help you improve energy, regulate blood sugar, and feel more in control.
(503) 213-6432 View (503) 213-6432

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Raquel Robles, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Raquel Robles
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Willowbrook, IL 60527
I use only evidence based strategies to get onto flexible and sustainable meal and exercise plans that work because they are based 100% on science and tailored to the individual from a person that has gone through the weight loss and health journey herself, me!
Replace feelings of guilt and shame with disciplines that build self esteem and self-confidence. Create meal plans using foods you love and change the way you look at exercise. Stop comparing yourself to someone else. Email me with subject "Incremental Progress" and I will send you a FREE pdf guide I put together to help you
I use only evidence based strategies to get onto flexible and sustainable meal and exercise plans that work because they are based 100% on science and tailored to the individual from a person that has gone through the weight loss and health journey herself, me!
Replace feelings of guilt and shame with disciplines that build self esteem and self-confidence. Create meal plans using foods you love and change the way you look at exercise. Stop comparing yourself to someone else. Email me with subject "Incremental Progress" and I will send you a FREE pdf guide I put together to help you
(708) 274-4074 View (708) 274-4074
Photo of Mary Ann Kelly - Dietitian of the Desert, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CIC, ISAK
Dietitian of the Desert
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CIC, ISAK
1 Endorsed
Wilmette, IL 60091
Every person is unique and my goal is to support your personal health & performance goals with a customized plan. Sessions can be scheduled in person or remotely. I believe in Testing, Not Guessing! Micro-nutrient Levels, Microbiome Test or our Food & Chemical Sensitivity Testing can be completed when local or when on the move. Onsite services also include Body Composition & Metabolic Testing, workshops & seminars and camp support! NEW! Respiratory Training will help you achieve your personal best at altitude or in the gym!. Personalized Probiotics and Supplement Recommendations to match your body type and goals!
Every person is unique and my goal is to support your personal health & performance goals with a customized plan. Sessions can be scheduled in person or remotely. I believe in Testing, Not Guessing! Micro-nutrient Levels, Microbiome Test or our Food & Chemical Sensitivity Testing can be completed when local or when on the move. Onsite services also include Body Composition & Metabolic Testing, workshops & seminars and camp support! NEW! Respiratory Training will help you achieve your personal best at altitude or in the gym!. Personalized Probiotics and Supplement Recommendations to match your body type and goals!
(760) 878-5181 View (760) 878-5181
Photo of Steve Ziganto, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Steve Ziganto
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Woodridge, IL 60517
At our first session, the average person tells me "I know what I need to do, I just wish I had the willpower to do it." Many rely on sheer willpower to accomplish their goals instead of learning how to make nutrition a simple and enjoyable process. Nutrition is not supposed to be this hard or guilt-inducing. It should primarily mold around your general life and preferences, not the other way around. My main approach to accomplish this is to build a basic understanding on why your old habits do not work, and why these new habits will work.
At our first session, the average person tells me "I know what I need to do, I just wish I had the willpower to do it." Many rely on sheer willpower to accomplish their goals instead of learning how to make nutrition a simple and enjoyable process. Nutrition is not supposed to be this hard or guilt-inducing. It should primarily mold around your general life and preferences, not the other way around. My main approach to accomplish this is to build a basic understanding on why your old habits do not work, and why these new habits will work.
(708) 840-8701 View (708) 840-8701
Photo of Adrienne DePaul, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, RDN, LDN
Adrienne DePaul
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, RDN, LDN
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60653
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.
Specialities include working with clients that currently have PCOS, Pre/PostPartum nutrition, Gestational Diabetes, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Disease, Kidney Disease, Weight Management, Hormonal Imbalances, Thyroid Issues, Low Fodmap, Disordered Eating, High Blood Pressure, IBD, IBS, GI Conditions, Infertility Nutrition.
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.
Specialities include working with clients that currently have PCOS, Pre/PostPartum nutrition, Gestational Diabetes, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Disease, Kidney Disease, Weight Management, Hormonal Imbalances, Thyroid Issues, Low Fodmap, Disordered Eating, High Blood Pressure, IBD, IBS, GI Conditions, Infertility Nutrition.
(312) 517-2296 View (312) 517-2296
Photo of Abbie Widing, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Abbie Widing
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60616
Abbie is a registered dietitian who specializes in eating disorders, disordered eating, weight management, behavioral health nutrition, healthy aging, and general nutrition.
Abbie is passionate about helping others improve their relationship with food, body image, weight, and health. She helps clients achieve positive changes in mental and physical well-being through nutrition counseling and education. Abbie provides personalized care tailored to your nutritional needs using a non-diet approach. She offers counseling in a supportive setting, using methods like motivational interviewing and cognitive-behavioral therapy, along with tools such as hands-on activities and educational handouts.
Abbie is a registered dietitian who specializes in eating disorders, disordered eating, weight management, behavioral health nutrition, healthy aging, and general nutrition.
Abbie is passionate about helping others improve their relationship with food, body image, weight, and health. She helps clients achieve positive changes in mental and physical well-being through nutrition counseling and education. Abbie provides personalized care tailored to your nutritional needs using a non-diet approach. She offers counseling in a supportive setting, using methods like motivational interviewing and cognitive-behavioral therapy, along with tools such as hands-on activities and educational handouts.
(659) 216-8557 View (659) 216-8557
Photo of Katie Gross, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, RDN
Katie Gross
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, RDN
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60637
Katie specializes in working with adults and adolescents with Disordered Eating, Digestive issues (IBS, IBD, Low FODMAP), Hormone Health (PCOS, etc.), Oncology Nutritional needs, Thyroid Disorders, Weight Management, Diabetes, General Healthy Eating, GERD, and interested in Sports Nutrition.
Katie is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist that collaborates with all clients to create sustainable lifestyle changes that support their overall health and well-being. Food acts as fuel but also has the ability to cultivate memories, emotions and traditions. She believes that food should not only support someone’s physical health, but their social, emotional, and mental health as well. With an “all foods fit”, body positive approach, Katie focuses on identifying individual barriers and personal preferences as she works closely to establish confidence in clients reaching their unique goals.
Katie specializes in working with adults and adolescents with Disordered Eating, Digestive issues (IBS, IBD, Low FODMAP), Hormone Health (PCOS, etc.), Oncology Nutritional needs, Thyroid Disorders, Weight Management, Diabetes, General Healthy Eating, GERD, and interested in Sports Nutrition.
Katie is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist that collaborates with all clients to create sustainable lifestyle changes that support their overall health and well-being. Food acts as fuel but also has the ability to cultivate memories, emotions and traditions. She believes that food should not only support someone’s physical health, but their social, emotional, and mental health as well. With an “all foods fit”, body positive approach, Katie focuses on identifying individual barriers and personal preferences as she works closely to establish confidence in clients reaching their unique goals.
(612) 326-0011 View (612) 326-0011
Photo of Juan M Ramirez, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CPT, LDN
Juan M Ramirez
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CPT, LDN
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I use an evidence-based, behavior-focused approach to weight loss that emphasizes personalized nutrition planning, realistic calorie and protein targets, and sustainable habit building.
Are you frustrated that the weight isn’t coming off even though you’ve been hitting the gym for months? I’ve got the solution for you! ¡Hola! I’m Juan M Ramirez, a Spanish-speaking Registered Dietitian and owner of Highview Nutrition. As a nutritionist and certified personal trainer, I specialize in helping individuals get toned and manage type 2 diabetes through personalized strength training and cutting-edge nutrition plans.
I use an evidence-based, behavior-focused approach to weight loss that emphasizes personalized nutrition planning, realistic calorie and protein targets, and sustainable habit building.
Are you frustrated that the weight isn’t coming off even though you’ve been hitting the gym for months? I’ve got the solution for you! ¡Hola! I’m Juan M Ramirez, a Spanish-speaking Registered Dietitian and owner of Highview Nutrition. As a nutritionist and certified personal trainer, I specialize in helping individuals get toned and manage type 2 diabetes through personalized strength training and cutting-edge nutrition plans.
(951) 724-3314 View (951) 724-3314
Photo of Christine Conover, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Christine Conover
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Serves Area
Christine is a warm, approachable dietitian who believes nutrition plays a crucial role in not only physical health, but also mental health and overall wellbeing. She takes a client-centered approach in her nutritional counseling, focusing on the specific needs of each individual. While providing a non-judgmental, positive and encouraging atmosphere for her clients, she uses goal and evidence based nutrition therapy to help clients achieve their desired results. Christine enjoys a hands-on approach, often helping clients with meal planning and grocery shopping.
Christine is a warm, approachable dietitian who believes nutrition plays a crucial role in not only physical health, but also mental health and overall wellbeing. She takes a client-centered approach in her nutritional counseling, focusing on the specific needs of each individual. While providing a non-judgmental, positive and encouraging atmosphere for her clients, she uses goal and evidence based nutrition therapy to help clients achieve their desired results. Christine enjoys a hands-on approach, often helping clients with meal planning and grocery shopping.
(331) 422-4184 View (331) 422-4184
Photo of Melissa Horstman, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Melissa Horstman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625
Melissa's specialties include eating disorders, disordered eating, HAES, intuitive eating, mindful eating, habituation, weight management, behavioral health nutrition, healthy aging, and general nutrition.
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.
Melissa's specialties include eating disorders, disordered eating, HAES, intuitive eating, mindful eating, habituation, weight management, behavioral health nutrition, healthy aging, and general nutrition.
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 Douglas Liner, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
Douglas Liner
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
I am Doug Liner, a Registered Dietitian with 30 years of experience working with others in diabetes care, metabolic health, and weight loss.
Doug specializes in: Pre-Daibetes, Type 1 and 2 Diabetes, Gestational Diabetes, Weight Management, Bariatics, GLP-1 medication support, PCOS, Cardio-Metabolic conditions, Fatty Liver Disease, Digestive Health, Mindful and Intuitive Eating Behaviors.
I am Doug Liner, a Registered Dietitian with 30 years of experience working with others in diabetes care, metabolic health, and weight loss.
Doug specializes in: Pre-Daibetes, Type 1 and 2 Diabetes, Gestational Diabetes, Weight Management, Bariatics, GLP-1 medication support, PCOS, Cardio-Metabolic conditions, Fatty Liver Disease, Digestive Health, Mindful and Intuitive Eating Behaviors.
(312) 374-5399 View (312) 374-5399
Photo of Kristin Paver, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Kristin Paver
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60616
Specialties include Eating disorders, Disordered Eating, Digestive Issues (IBS, IBD), Crohn's, Celiac, Weight Management for Adults/Adolescents, Diabetes, GERD, Allergy Nutrition, PCOS, Cardiovascular Disease, Kidney Disorders, High Blood Pressure, and other conditions.
As a dedicated and compassionate dietitian, Kristin specializes in helping her clients achieve their health and wellness goals through personalized nutrition and lifestyle changes. With a deep understanding that each individual’s dietary needs are unique, she tailors her approach to suit her client’s specific lifestyle, health conditions and goals. Kristin focuses on promoting intuitive eating and fostering a positive relationship with food, helping her clients to listen to their body’s cues and develop a more balanced and mindful approach to eating.
Specialties include Eating disorders, Disordered Eating, Digestive Issues (IBS, IBD), Crohn's, Celiac, Weight Management for Adults/Adolescents, Diabetes, GERD, Allergy Nutrition, PCOS, Cardiovascular Disease, Kidney Disorders, High Blood Pressure, and other conditions.
As a dedicated and compassionate dietitian, Kristin specializes in helping her clients achieve their health and wellness goals through personalized nutrition and lifestyle changes. With a deep understanding that each individual’s dietary needs are unique, she tailors her approach to suit her client’s specific lifestyle, health conditions and goals. Kristin focuses on promoting intuitive eating and fostering a positive relationship with food, helping her clients to listen to their body’s cues and develop a more balanced and mindful approach to eating.
(205) 880-1640 View (205) 880-1640
Photo of Kate Davis, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, CSSD
Kate Davis
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, CSSD
Naperville, IL 60540
[More info at www.RDKate.com.] I am a board-certified sports nutritionist/dietitian who teaches athletes how to improve sport performance and overall health with food. Advice is individualized based on gender, age, sport, position, season of training, lifestyle and goals. Learn what to eat, when to eat it and when to supplement. Training days - Competition day - Every day. (NO supplements sold in-office).
[More info at www.RDKate.com.] I am a board-certified sports nutritionist/dietitian who teaches athletes how to improve sport performance and overall health with food. Advice is individualized based on gender, age, sport, position, season of training, lifestyle and goals. Learn what to eat, when to eat it and when to supplement. Training days - Competition day - Every day. (NO supplements sold in-office).
(989) 607-4174 View (989) 607-4174
Photo of Juhi Shah, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Juhi Shah
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Chicago, IL 60654
Are you looking for an individualized approach to nutrition? Do you feel stuck in the dieting cycle and not sure where to go next? Do you struggle to incorporate healthy habits during busy weeks with hectic schedules? I am a Registered Dietitian at Fuel U (by SHIFT), a 12-week personalized nutrition coaching program (available both in-person and virtually). Through my connection with SHIFT, a concierge medical practice in River North, I have access to primary care physicians, best-in-class diagnostics (including our dual-compartment DEXA scan), and other clinical resources that aid in coaching our Fuel U clients.
Are you looking for an individualized approach to nutrition? Do you feel stuck in the dieting cycle and not sure where to go next? Do you struggle to incorporate healthy habits during busy weeks with hectic schedules? I am a Registered Dietitian at Fuel U (by SHIFT), a 12-week personalized nutrition coaching program (available both in-person and virtually). Through my connection with SHIFT, a concierge medical practice in River North, I have access to primary care physicians, best-in-class diagnostics (including our dual-compartment DEXA scan), and other clinical resources that aid in coaching our Fuel U clients.
(815) 605-2571 View (815) 605-2571
Photo of Lauren Hopkin, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Lauren Hopkin
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Chicago, IL 60654
Are you looking for an individualized approach to nutrition? Do you feel stuck in the dieting cycle and not sure where to go next? Do you struggle to incorporate healthy habits during busy weeks with hectic schedules? I am a Registered Dietitian at Fuel U (by SHIFT), a 12-week personalized nutrition coaching program (available both in-person and virtually). Through my connection with SHIFT, a concierge medical practice, I have access to primary care physicians, best-in-class diagnostics (including our DEXA scan to analyze body composition), and other clinical resources that aid in coaching our Fuel U clients.
Are you looking for an individualized approach to nutrition? Do you feel stuck in the dieting cycle and not sure where to go next? Do you struggle to incorporate healthy habits during busy weeks with hectic schedules? I am a Registered Dietitian at Fuel U (by SHIFT), a 12-week personalized nutrition coaching program (available both in-person and virtually). Through my connection with SHIFT, a concierge medical practice, I have access to primary care physicians, best-in-class diagnostics (including our DEXA scan to analyze body composition), and other clinical resources that aid in coaching our Fuel U clients.
(815) 605-8861 View (815) 605-8861
Photo of Ashley Jarvis, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Ashley Jarvis
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Serves Area
Ashley has been a practicing Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) for over ten years and a pilates teacher for nearly fifteen years. Her greatest passion and profound privilege is to witness the power of functional nutrition and movement in her client’s health.
Ashley has been a practicing Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) for over ten years and a pilates teacher for nearly fifteen years. Her greatest passion and profound privilege is to witness the power of functional nutrition and movement in her client’s health.
(919) 525-3799 View (919) 525-3799
Weight Loss/Weight Management Nutritionists and Dietitians
Why is nutrition important for weight loss?
Dietitians often identify diet and exercise as the two key factors in achieving weight loss goals. To lose weight, individuals must consume fewer calories than they expend, making a supportive diet essential. Foods that are satiating, such as the healthy fats found in nuts or fish like salmon, can help keep individuals full longer and reduce overall intake. In contrast, foods high in sugar and refined carbohydrates are quickly burned by the body and can lead to excessive caloric intake. These examples highlight the importance of overall nutrition choices, beyond just calorie counting, in weight loss. Additionally, a well-balanced diet can help reduce symptoms of conditions associated with obesity or being overweight, such as high blood sugar and hypertension.

What diet is best for weight loss?
There is no single best diet for weight loss; instead, dietitians often advocate for adopting overall lifestyle changes that support sustainable weight loss rather than extreme, short-term diets. Generally, dietary changes that include more plant-based foods and those low in added sugars and saturated fats are recommended. One example of such a diet is the Mediterranean-style diet, which emphasizes whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and lean sources of animal protein. Specific dietary patterns may also be tailored to the client's underlying health conditions. For instance, individuals with hypertension or high cholesterol might benefit from the DASH diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension), which focuses on heart-healthy foods.

What foods should I avoid for weight loss?
When aiming for weight loss, dietitians generally advise against consuming high-calorie and highly-processed foods, such as fried foods, fatty meats, sugar-rich desserts or baked goods, refined carbohydrates like white bread, and candy. Additionally, beverages such as sodas and high-calorie coffee drinks can negatively impact weight loss goals. Instead, nutrition professionals recommend incorporating foods that contribute to satiety and overall health, including fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, and whole grains. Focusing on adding these nutrient-dense foods, instead of taking away certain foods, can support a healthier lifestyle and help individuals both meet their nutritional needs while also achieving their weight loss goals.

How can a dietitian help with weight loss?
Dietitians assist with weight loss by helping clients develop and implement lifestyle changes, including dietary modifications and exercise routines, that support sustained weight management. They will work with clients to create personalized weight loss plans and hold them accountable for meeting their goals. Dietitians may also address the psychological aspects of weight loss, promoting positive self-esteem and self-worth. Many encourage clients to keep a food diary or journal to track their diet and provide ongoing guidance as the client makes the recommended lifestyle changes. Additionally, dietitians may coordinate with other healthcare professionals, such as medical doctors, to address any underlying health conditions, such as diabetes.